CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM BENCHMARKING FOR SEVEN WEST COAST PUBLIC WASTEWATER AGENCIES

摘要

Representatives from seven public wastewater agencies conducted an engineeringrnand capital improvement program benchmarking study. The study includedrnperformance benchmarking (cost comparisons) and process benchmarking (workrnpractices). Performance benchmarking involved collection of costs for planning,rndesign and construction phases of a project, and separated into consultants, in housernlabor (with benefits), other direct costs, and agency administrative and generalrnexpenses. Cost data was compiled for collection system and wastewater treatmentrnprojects of various sizes that were recently completed by each agency. Thisrninformation was developed into cost curves that allow each agency to compare theirrnperformance graphically against a median value and begin to ask questions aboutrnwhy the agencies are different. Process benchmarking was initiated by selection ofrnmajor topics that were suspected as having significant impacts on costs. The topicsrnincluded project management and budgeting, authority levels, change orderrnprocessing, partnering and dispute resolution, consultant procurement, constructionrncontract approval and award, use of alternative capital delivery, records management,rnand construction inspection. The benchmarking team linked the process andrnperformance data in an attempt to explain differences in cost efficiency.rnThis paper focuses on the comprehensive and detailed evaluation done by thernagencies in the area of capital program efficiency. The paper describes the processrnused to gather consistent data between the agencies. Selected results are presented inrngraphical form, and conclusions and lessons learned are provided.