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5. SCHEDULE and FUNDING
5.1 Findings
The integrated resource-loaded cost/schedule estimate for the NOνA project consists of
(approximately) 3,500 schedule activities using the scheduling tool Open Plan. The project team
presented a schedule range between 45-58 months for the NOνA project with a 25kT detector.
The best estimate was 50 months. The project team has also identified a scope range between
25kT and 34kT for a fixed TPC of $247 million (AY). Proposed DOE CD-4, Approve State of
Construction, milestones were presented for each Level 2 subsystem.
Sources of forward-funding outside of DOE/SC are being sought, namely from the
University of Minnesota; however, to date no source can be considered firm. The NOνA
management team is also actively seeking other additional funding sources outside of DOE.
5.2 Comments
The Committee found the 50-month schedule for a 25kT detector to be reasonable at this
stage of the project. The schedule will dilate with changes to the mass scope. CD-4 dates and
definitions for the project have been proposed at WBS Levels 1 and 2. The proposed DOE
cooperative agreement for the building site and construction appears to be on the project critical
path. Exact site and acquisition strategy will be needed at CD-2. Environmental and seasonal
construction risks should be well defined prior to CD-2.
Major material procurements are a key schedule risk. The project team is to be
commended for confirming quotes and delivery dates/quantities to produce a credible schedule.
All large procurements appear to be well advanced and delivery schedules tie in well with
integration tasks.
The Committee was not provided with FTE estimates or manpower profiles. Clear,
supportable estimates on manpower will be needed at CD-2, which should include base program
supported physicists. The project team should communicate their resource needs with the
laboratory and collaboration management.
Integration tasks are well developed and under capable management for CD-1. The
schedule needs revisiting once the acquisition strategy is finalized. Schedule risks related to
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