For Infrastructure Project Success, Focus on Community

In 2019, WSP undertook a joint body of research with the University of Sydney (UTS), interviewing 180 professionals involved in major public and private projects in both Australia and New Zealand. Titled ‘Setting Up Projects for Success’ key findings included 99% of respondents agreeing that a more integrated planning and robust business case process is needed, combined with front-end engineering design and early community engagement.

Guy Templeton, CEO & President of WSP ANZ says, “We also learnt that if we can consult with the community more effectively and use technology to our benefit, we can help bring more projects to life in a shorter timeframe and reduce the impacts of delays and cancellations.

“Changing the way, we engage with the community will help us realise new opportunities within infrastructure planning and delivery so that we can set more projects up for success.”

To address this, WSP has released the Online Community Portal which is designed to improve the effectiveness of community engagement.

The proprietary tool helps project shapers to engage with the community in a more contemporary user-friendly way by transforming technical information into a visually engaging, easy to understand format with 24/7 access.

Importantly, because of its digital nature, projects can be brought to life sooner through improved engagement and a better understanding of community needs which in turn enhances business cases and design integration in addition to assisting with the environmental approval process.

Stronger Relationships Can be Established Through Digital Communication Channels

“By establishing clear lines of communication earlier in the stakeholder engagement process, we can reduce the likelihood of community opposition slowing delivery so that more projects can enter a shovel ready phase,” adds Mr Templeton.

This will help provide investors with long-term incentives, our economy with short-term stimulus through job creation and our community with a more resilient future that’s within reach.

The Online Community Portal provides greater accessibility to information throughout the lifecycle of the project.

“Put simply, it combines planning studies, environmental approvals data, design specifications and general project information into one comprehensive digital platform,” explains Rebecca Davis, WSP’s Director of Environment, Advisory & Digital.

“It centralises project information and engagement including feedback forms, interactive maps, a virtual consultation room, rich media and technical data including impact assessments.
“Importantly, because of its digital nature and accessibility, it brings more people into the conversation, thereby improving inclusivity. It is tailored to specific project needs and orientates information around what matters most to stakeholders and the community – usually what’s happening in their own backyards.”

COVID-19 Restrictions Have Provided Organisations with Time-out to Review and Reform

Following the WSP/UTS research project borne out of real-life experience by the participants, WSP has encouraged the sector to improve awareness of risks and opportunities; gain greater certainty in execution; ensure added clarity over performance; and build more simplicity into governance and management.

“As a sector, let’s use the consequence of the nation-shifting pandemic as an opportunity to develop world-class solutions to issues in the delivery of infrastructure projects in Australia,” adds Rebecca.