How to manage megaprojects

The session looked at the challenges of delivering successful megaprojects

The 8th Dubai International Project Management Forum discussed how to successfully manage megaprojects besides attracting and empowering human resources in one of the sessions. It looked into the challenges faced and how to benefit from the latest technology in tracking projects and ensuring the realisation of their objectives. The session, moderated by the MEED Editor Colin Foreman, included Rami Al Jali, Undersecretary of the Ministry for Projects, Public Health and Housing, Saudi Arabia; Joseph Jabara, CEO of CAT Group; Ian Williamson, Chief Executive Officer for Project Implementation, The Red Sea Development Company; and Howard Smith, Chief Operating Officer, London Rail, Elizabeth line.

“Any project faces various challenges and difficulties,” said Al Jali. “For example, we encountered difficulties related to finding leading contracting companies capable of meeting the needs of our projects. We communicated with universities to take advantage of futuristic research to know the future of our projects and the continuity of their success.”

Joseph Jbara, CEO of CAT Group, spoke about the successful experience of CAT Group in Africa, where the company worked in the fields of civil construction, refrigeration, gas pipeline projects, and facilities management.

Speaking about the challenges faced and overcome, he said, “Before undertaking megaprojects, project owners must strike a balance between stakeholders and the society. They have to provide cadres capable of implementing the project and achieving its goals. It is necessary to achieve continuous communication between members of the leadership and employees.”