The Application of Works Programme Management

Successful Works Programme Management (WPM) improves return on investment. Achieving successful works programme management is a challenge. It requires the right understanding of how to achieve the desired business outcomes. One size does not fit all, but instead the programme must be tailored to fit each specific time and place. The purpose of this chapter is to show how WEL Networks Ltd (WEL), as an electricity distribution utility, successfully implemented its WPM. WPM follows the model of; plan, do, act and check. This chapter covers the effective development of a 10 year asset management plan, and the selection of the best delivery model for effective and efficient delivery of the approved works programme. The chapter critically analyses work management models. In particular it identifies the benefits claimed for a WPM and some of the reported difficulties with implementation. It then considers the historical situation within WEL and shows how some of the reported problems were to be found within the WEL’s history. It details the steps that WEL has taken in developing and implementing the WPM. It discusses the objectives and critical success factors in the implementation of WPM. The mechanisms for determining the effectiveness of the WPM implementation are described. The chapter concludes with lessons learned of how the WPM has been successfully applied to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the development and delivery of the annual works programme in relation to the approved 10 year Asset Management Plan.