Detecting early warning signs of delays in shipbuilding projects

Abstract

Ship design and construction involves numerous activities that have to be effectively performed, coordinated and integrated. Various elements can influence the effectiveness of the process due to projects’ large number of stake- holders and the high level of uncertainty. One of the most challenging issues is the delay in product delivery. However, the elements which might result to delay do not develop overnight and there might be early warning signals addressing that the delay, is likely to happen. This paper discusses that by following an early warning procedure, it will be possible to identify possible early warning signs of potential problems which might cause delay. These signs can provide an aid for the project team to take actions before the problem reaches its full impact, thus delaying the project delivery.