A risk mitigation approach for concurrent engineering projects

Abstract

Generally, risks are encountered and generate negative outcomes in concurrent engineering (CE) projects including project delays, cost overruns and unacceptable quality. These outcomes can be avoided by establishing a systematic risk management process. In this research, a risk management approach used is outlined, according to Australia and New Zealand risk management standard (AS/NZS 4360: 1999). An IDEF3 model is used to represent the CE project architecture as a process model. A risk assessment and mitigation model is developed to identify, assess and evaluate risks in concurrent engineering projects to suggest a mitigation strategy. Five heuristic rules are implemented in three simulated scenarios and genetic algorithm is bound to generate the most cost-effective solutions. The risk mitigation model developed in this research is aimed to be used as a decision support tool for project managers to select the best mitigation strategy based on the available mitigation budget and objectives of the project.