Strategic Project Management Made Simple: Practical Tools for Leaders and Teams

Close Out Projects with a People Focus (Washington Department of Transportation)

Project closure requires not only wrapping up the documentation at project end but also helping team members transition to new positions. This project plan from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) was developed three years ahead of the planned completion of a major bridge construction project.

The Hood Canal Bridge Project Team was established to administer the construction of this major project in Washington State. The employees served in project positions, which means that they would go back to other positions within the organization when work is completed. Project leadership made a commitment to find positions for both state and consultant employees that would benefit their careers. They would also be closing several work sites, including vacating office space and disposing of equipment and vehicles at different times as the work at each site wraps up. There is also extensive documentation to complete for both the state and federally funded work.

“Finish Strong” is a project plan to take care of the people by lining up good positions for 60 employees spread over several sites after this project finishes. Even though scheduled completion was three years away, using a LogFrame early helped to identify tastes necessary to ensure smooth execution.

Logical Framework for Hood Canal Bridge Project Closure“Finish Strong”