Define
Defining a business change is the single most important stage of a project. This underpins and drives all aspects of the successful delivery of this change.
At DDK we work with our Clients to truly understand their holistic business requirements from day one, enabling us to develop and implement a strategically aligned plan to deliver you success. From initial definition of the Project Brief, through feasibility studies, current and future state modelling, to concept designs and costings, DDK take a truly ‘hands on’ approach to Define your project.
In parallel with the core project scope, DDK will work closely with you to define a value adding and rigorous project governance structure, identifying the key roles and resource that will ultimately deliver the project, coupled with the required governance and reporting structure to keep you informed and in control.
DDK can tailor the Define stage of a project to align and make best use of the Client’s structure and resources. From completing an autonomous working Definition on your behalf, to working with your in-house team to develop the brief to ensure it is clarified, challenged and robust.
Core Project
Define The Brief
Whether receiving and evaluating a Client’s pre-defined brief or working with the Client to develop and establish a working brief from scratch. A clear and holistic project brief, considering all aspects of the proposed change, will be crucial for successful delivery. DDK will work with you to deliver this Brief.
Feasibility Studies
Feasibility Studies are a key step to further develop the defined Brief, to consider and assess the practicality of all options in a truly balanced and independent manner. Such a study will deliver a comprehensive document outlining the options available, their respective merits, and recommendations to deliver the Brief.
Current & Future State Modelling
In support of Feasibility Studies, DDK possess the capabilities and techniques to conduct current and future state modelling of your operation. This will inform and validate the assumptions and targets of the Brief, to define and quantify in detail the evolution of deliverables to achieve the Brief.
Concept Design
Whether a new factory or an expanded or remodeled existing facility is identified in the Definition steps of feasibility study and modelling, careful planning of the new facility is required for new and modified areas.
DDK will develop an effective concept design, considering best practice layout and flows, equipment solutions and people/process requirements.
Building Design (Including Site Selection)
DDK then develop the Concept Design into efficient and cost effective facility layout drawings, identifying all key construction and services requirements. Where relevant DDK provide 3D modelling with Fly-through and VR capabilities to further enhance and communicate this design process. Where applicable, DDK can support all aspects of new site search and selection.
Manufacturing Solutions
DDK provide the skills and experience to support selection of all equipment/process requirements through to vendor selection. As with facility layout design, this will identify the most efficient and cost-effective equipment solutions to your manufacturing needs.
Project Governance & Structure
Define Project Governance & Structure
In parallel with defining the scope and deliverables of the project, defining how a project will be structured and governed is vital for successful and sustainable project delivery.
DDK work with the Client to define this, tailored to the project, including:
- Definition of all relevant Workstreams for the project
- Key project roles within the structure and their respective responsibilities
- Process(es) and tools/documents for efficient project review and reporting, tailored for different stages of the project.
Project Plan Definition
In parallel with Definition through feasibility studies, modelling and concept designs, DDK will define the key stage targets for successful project delivery and their respective timescales, delivering a holistic and detailed project plan that encompasses all stages.
Budget Development (Including Procurement Strategies)
Informed by the scope identified through feasibility studies and concept design, DDK then develop initial project costings for all aspects of capital costs.
In parallel , procurement and contracting strategies will be developed for both building/construction and equipment.
Funding Solutions
Where relevant, DDK can also research and advise upon potential funding solutions to support your business case (e.g. grants, taxation, environmental schemes, etc.)
Business case development
DDK will support you through the definition, compilation and approval of your business case and associated documentation. Coupled with the pre-defined areas of scope, further support includes areas as outlined to the left.
Operational Excellence
Organisational Design & Strategy
In readiness for the improved operating model and performance levels the proposed business change/project will deliver for your business, during the Define stage DDK will support you in identifying the options for how you will re-design your operating organistation and strategy, to Sustainably maximise the benefits of this change.
Embodied Carbon Modelling
DDK uses its proprietary Construction and Operational Carbon Analysis Models in conjunction with 3D Digital TwinTM technology to foster smart design, building the smallest footprint possible. These tools are combined with decades of specialist experience and technical knowledge to identify the most appropriate solutions, from a project sustainability review right through to options for going fully off-grid, helping you deliver the most energy-efficient facility and optimised carbon footprint.