Bi-project management in engineering complex industrial construction projects

Engineering large industrial construction projects is usually a complex task with several co-operating actors. This paper investigates such projects, characterised by two main actors: the owner of the installation (the client organisation) responsible for the engineering of the production process, and an engineering office responsible for the construction related parts. Usually, both parts are complex in itself. This paper focuses on the relation, dependencies and influences between the two parts. The main questions are what is specific in co-ordinating the two parts, how can co-ordination be achieved and how can disturbances be handled with without delaying the progress of the project as a whole. A framework, which distinguishes four areas is presented to understand the interrelationship better. Each of these areas must be paid attention to in order to control the complexities of these projects. The framework helps to understand the specific nature of bi-project management. Implications for effective bi-project management are presented along with a number of potential areas for future research.