The problems BAE encountered in implementing the baggage-handling system for the Denver International Airport
The Denver International Airport project was not opened on the scheduled date because of delays caused by construction constraints. After the state of the baggage-system was assessed by Logplan a German firm hired by the mayor, it was noted that there were high chances for the project to succeed. But a report submitted by Logplan identified several problems hindering the implementation of the baggage-handling system. According to the report, mechanical and electrical problems were identified as some of the major hindrances to the implementation of the system. To revive the project once again, the assessors suggested that five more months should be allocated for that purpose only. Concerning restoring the backup system, the assessors recommended less than five months. Another dilemma that contributed to the problems in the implementation of this project was the overall design of the airport according to Gene Di Fonso who was the president of BAE.
The root causes of the problems
The project was marred with several risks that formed the ultimate problems which affected it in the long-run. The root causes of these problems were; the size of the project, its complexity, and the unfamiliar technology used. Other causes included too many resident entities that were served by a single system, uncertain definitions of the technicalities of the project, and the short deadline. This project was too big considering it was the first major airport in the region. Such a project had not been carried out in the region before. Therefore, the management lacked experience in the construction of such a big structure. In addition to the size, there were the complexities that emanated from the size of the project. The project was made more complex by the new technology that was to be used in the construction of the new baggage-handling system. This technology was new to the workers and the management as well. Therefore, there was a challenge in the general understanding of how to apply project management skills.
Steps to mitigate the problems
Problems facing the Airport’s implementation of a baggage handling system can only be mitigated through proper project management skills. I believe the company can be served better by foreign contractors who have technical experience in such a big project. Also, Denver should look into the issue of the airport’s design to see how the problem can be addressed to allow the implementation process. If the general design of the airport cannot allow the new baggage handling system to be effective, then a decisive decision on what to change between the two should be made.
The success factors underlying the Abu Dhabi New Airport project
One of the major contributing factors to Abu Dhabi’s success in the construction of its new airport is the immense experience of the region in structural engineering. Abu Dhabi as a region has sufficient experience in big structural projects and such Experience was lacking in Denver’s case.
The most important constraint for the Abu Dhabi New Airport project
One of the most important constrains is finding the appropriate technique to increase revenue and reduce the cost of operation. To mitigate this issue, the Airport has created a holistic solution by balancing its competitiveness through two very important measures i.e. Operational readiness and Transaction advice.