We start by screening projects and concepts to assess their potential for ultimate success. This process begins with a critical question: Will this project address a significant problem and provide benefits to all stakeholders, including sponsors, government agencies, the surrounding community, engineers, constructors, and lenders?

Selecting a project configuration involves more than choosing a technology and site acreage, though these are crucial. Key questions include: Will lenders and investors be confident in the technology's readiness? Will the community support the location and associated infrastructure? Will government agencies be willing to provide necessary permits and approvals?

Before initiating the effort, we help the client evaluate the costs, including manpower, development budget, political capital, and a realistic timeline. Development is often more expensive than anticipated, particularly for impactful projects that require a commitment to excellence.

To effectively manage the project and monitor its progress, it is essential to establish a schedule with multiple decision points or milestones. At these intervals, we evaluate progress and assess the project's likelihood of success if continued. This structured approach not only provides predefined opportunities for adjustment but also sets clear objectives for the development team to move toward.

Development of first-of-a-kind projects is a “learning by doing” exercise. As the plan is executed and milestones are accomplished, the revelations gained in the process become the basis for adjusting project assumptions and plans—but not its ultimate goals. Capitalizing on learning as the project unfolds is the key to success in leading-edge development.