In order to assess whether a project was delivered on time we need to capture the key milestone dates at each key point in the project. Ongoing data collection as the project moves through the key stages will assist in the accurate recording of dates.
Recommended sources: Media releases, project management timetables, business case, budget documents, tender documents, and contractual documents.
Timing of data input: Ongoing throughout project.
Issue: The initial announcement is often when the project is first announced and may or may not be when a business case is completed. Dates may therefore be identified as a range/year/quarter etc. Not all figures are expected at the initial stage so there will be gaps, however as the project develops, the formal timelines should be available.
Issue: In some projects, not all stages will be identified, e.g. some Traditional projects may not go to an Expression of Interest. And in some projects additional stages may be identified, e.g. a Registration of Interest prior to an Expression of Interest or the inclusion of an Environmental Impact Statement stage. These issues can be noted in the comments section or added to the table. Generally while the stages may have different names, e.g. Project Brief and Request for Tender, the milestones mean the same thing.
Issue: The financial close date is relevant for PPP projects. Financial close may be the same time or follow soon after contract execution. It may be necessary to note both dates if a public announcement was made on contract execution.