Challenges and Opportunities for Innovation in the Public Works ...

In the area of communication and awareness, we have
produced a success story video called "The CII Experience." It
highlights more successes on different projects by interviewing
the participants in the projects. The purpose of this video is
to create an awareness that products have been used in actual
practice, and what are the results from the use of some of
those products. Also in the communications area, one of our
action teams has produced a CII Speakers Resource List that is
available to local user councils and any other groups who would
like access to participants of CII who are willing to speak on
a subject in an area where they have been involved. The goal
is to make the programs from CII available to more and more
groups.
The primary thrust of our current implementation effort is
in the area of education. The education thrust is primarily
focused on bridging the gap from the board room to the project
level. The principal effort has resulted in translating CII
research products int- education modules. The education
program concept is shown on this simplified graphic.
Essentially, pilot university short courses of one-week in
length are taught by combining six to eight different subject
areas or modules. The courses are targeted for experienced
project managers and are team taught by faculty experts and
industry practitioners. They are "piloted" in Austin near the
CII headquarters and are overseen by action teams formed around
specific subject areas. Each of these pilot courses is used to
develop the individual subject into completed "hard copy"
modules. A module then becomes a complete, "ready-forinstruction"
package consisting of an instructor's guide, a
student's or participant's manual, and all audio visual
material, including slides and videos necessary for course
instruction. The modules are designed with adult learning in
mind and should maximize class interaction through workshops
and discussion.
Currently, 15 modules are at the end of their development
and production phase. The goal will be to use the modules in a
number of different ways. Individual modules can be used for
(1) in-company training programs, using in-house or other
instructors; (2) regional workshops at local user councils,
etc. normally half a day to a day in length; or (3) combined,
the modules can be used in short courses nationwide.
Currently, CII is building a network at regional universities
to participate in this program. The first two, Clemson and
Arizona State, will begin teaching these courses in September
and November.
To date, we have taught five sessions in Austin, with over
150 project managers in attendance. The education modules
under development are shown here, and a new set of topics which
include partnering, total quality, and contractual issues will
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