The Project Definition Rating Index (PDRI) is a methodology used by capital projects to measure the degree of scope definition, identify gaps, and take appropriate actions to reduce risk during front end planning. PDRI is used at multiple stages in the front end planning process. As a project progresses, identified gaps will continue to be addressed until a sufficient level of definition (measured using the PDRI score) is achieved for the project to successfully proceed to detailed design and construction.
Poor scope definition is recognized as one of the leading causes of project failure, resulting in cost and schedule overruns, and long term operational issues. As a result, front end planning is one of the most important process in the construction and operation of a capital asset. The PDRI methodology is proven to reduce risk in capital project delivery by promoting rigorous scope definition and a collaborative review process during front end planning. Using the PDRI methodology will help your project teams improve scope definition, become better aligned, and provide transparency on identified gaps. This helps to equip all project stakeholders to better mitigate risks identified in PDRI reviews, predict potential issues, and overcome costly problems down the road.
The PDRI methodology supports a comprehensive assessment of scope definition. Templates are organized in three sections for systematic assessment of the:
- Basis of project decision – the business objectives and drivers
- Basis of design – processes and technical information required
- Execution approach – for executing the project construction and closeout
Each section is broken down into categories and elements. The element is the lowest level of the index where the assessment of scope definition is conducted.
There are three industry-validated PDRI templates that are each focused on a specific industry sector.
(i) Industrial Projects
The Industrial template is targeted for projects that provide an output in terms of assemblies, sub-assemblies, chemical compounds, electricity, food or other marketable goods. Examples include power plants, chemical plants, oil & gas production, refineries, water and waste treatment, and manufacturing facilities.
(ii) Building Projects
The Building template is designed for commercial building projects. Examples including offices, schools, medical facilities, institutional buildings, warehouses, parking structures and research facilities.
(iii) Infrastructure Projects
The Infrastructure template is targeted for projects that involve linear construction with extensive public interface and environmental impact considerations. Examples include railways, highways, pipelines, transmission and distribution and canals.