1.54 The Gate Review Assurance Board framework provides an assurance mechanism for a consistent and robust review of major projects. This enables early identification of potential problems thereby ensuring provision of high quality and reliable advice to Defence and Government as to the health and outlook of major projects. Gate Reviews may also be used as a diagnostic tool in assessing potential Projects of Concern and projects that have triggered EI&W.
1.55 Gate Reviews are chaired by DMO senior managers with Board membership tailored to address the specific issues confronting a project (business case, project management, commercial, engineering, stakeholder etc). The Boards have also been strengthened with the inclusion of two external members. Board meetings provide a forum for robust, pluralistic discussion that injects a strategic perspective, filters optimism, analyses issues, recommends actions and assists the project to resolve those issues.
1.56 In preparation for the Board meeting, the DMO's Independent Project Performance Office conducts a robust evaluation of the project which ensures issues have been identified and brought to the attention of the Board for investigation.
1.57 If a project fails to convince the Board of its maturity or readiness to progress to the next stage of its lifecycle, the project is directed to address those risks and issues before proceeding and a further Board review may be required before progression to the next stage. Where necessary, recommendations may be made on consideration of the project as a Project of Concern.