In-River Projects: More Systematic Focus Needed on Risk and Lessons Learned

We found that project management in WLRD has matured since they implemented a Project Management Manual in 2012. Yet weaknesses in risk management and lessons learned processes remain and may have contributed to schedule delays of a year or more.

Project risks were not well identified or monitored, especially related to budget and schedule. WLRD conducts risk assessments in early project stages. However, as risks emerge and change over the life of projects, WLRD has not consistently monitored those risks or their impact on budget or schedule.

In addition, WLRD has not systematically reported performance on baseline schedule and budget versus actual. This diminishes focus on project outcomes and reduces accountability to decision-makers.

Finally, WLRD has not established necessary processes to consistently capture the full benefit of lessons learned practices. This increases the risk of repeating mistakes and lessens the likelihood of capitalizing on successes from project to project.

We make recommendations to support achievement of county strategic goals that focus on comprehensive risk assessment and management, enhanced attention to schedule and budget, and ensuring that lessons learned are collected and incorporated into new projects.

The Water and Land Resources Division (WLRD) was appropriated $160 million for flood management and ecological restoration for the 2015-2016 biennium. This audit examined the extent to which WLRD meets project management standards for alternative analysis, risk management, and lessons learned in alignment with county strategic priorities related to fiscal management, safety, and environmental sustainability.