SPACE PROJECT MANAGEMENT LESSONS LEARNED: A POWERFUL TOOL FOR SUCCESS

摘要

The success of a given space project, and ultimately of the organization supporting this project, is often jeopardized by generic management problems. Why did we not foresee these problems? Where are the relevant lessons learned that we could have used? What lessons can we draw for future projects? Ultimately, how should we manage this important knowledge? This paper presents the developments underway at the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) regarding "Space Project Management Lessons Learned" (SProMaLLs), as a powerful way to better manage space projects to ensure success both at project and corporate levels. Some space projects are already benefiting from these efforts. However, it is clear that much more work is required to put in place an effective approach to manage this great source of knowledge, and also that, maybe most importantly, SProMaLLs cannot be managed within a single project perspective only.rnThis paper therefore discusses how SProMaLLs can effectively and simply be identified, captured, documented, authorized, disseminated and used (at various stages of the project and program life-cycles, but particularly during early project planning, and also accounting for the project context), and the support required from senior management in this regard. The paper also provides examples of actual SProMaLLs (some found in unexpected areas), and suggestions for further developments regarding generic SProMaLLs (applicable to any space project of a given type and size). As well, future knowledge management steps are proposed such as SProMaLLs international discussion forums (in person and via the net), integration of SProMaLLs management with risk management and with portfolio management, and compulsory review of SProMaLLs banks prior to approving a given space project phase. Finally, a conclusion is presented, hopefully as a motivator to foster international cooperation in the development, use and management of space project management lessons learned.