Post on 27-Mar-2015
Shifting Attitudes
MnDOT/ACEC Conference
March 2, 2010
Shifting – Verb or Adjective?
Verb – Word indicating actionAdjective – Word describing noun
We’ll try to do a little of both in this session
My Observations
MnDOT An Incredible Machine
Managing and Operating the SystemManaging and Developing ProjectsGreat People!
Consultants Incredible Experience and Expertise
Running a BusinessPartnering With MnDOT - ServiceManaging and Developing ProjectsGreat People!
My Observations
An Experiment Metro Projects in the last 25 years Outstate Projects in the last 25 years
Consultants have always been there! We don’t get the job done without them
McHuseBrideby and Associates
Dispensing wisdom since foreverHere to dispel myths (and create new ones)
Myth #1 – Consultants cost too much!
Are we comparing apples and oranges? Project management Two way communication – early and ongoing
Myth #2 – It takes too long to get a consultant under contract!
Consultants are hungry. Always!Will turn around proposals, scopes and contracts as quickly as you want them.A fair selection process
Myth #3 – Consultants are getting rich off of us!
Most fee is in salary and overheadExperience shows that consultants make a very small percentage of actual profit on our projects.
Myth #4 – Consultant plans aren’t as good!
Did we specify what we want?Did we provide enough time and $$?Did we provide the right direction? And in a timely manner?Who’s our project manager?And of course sometimes that myth is actually right….
Myth #5 – The client is always right!
• Does this guy look like he’s always right?
Myth #5 – The client is always right!
• The client is paying for service – better know what the service expectations are!
• The client should expect and welcome honest give and take.
• Anticipate and avoid surprises!
Conclusion / Bottom Line
We’re more alike than we are different! Want a successful project Want the public to like us Want to be on schedule and within budget Want the boss to like us!!
Thank you!
Consultant Teaming – Let’s Ask Doug!
• Doug and Doug getting advice from the commissioner.