(DEV) Professional Development
NOTE: Program Subject to Change
(DEV-3045) Problem Analysis using Statistical Safeguards
Author(s)/Presenters(s): Gregory J. Whiteside, PE CCP; James D. Whiteside, II FAACE
Time/Room: TUE 2:15-3:15/Nottoway
Abstract:
There are seven rules that define and substantiate causality. The very first task to any analysis is to define for the problem what is necessary and sufficient to define discovery boundaries. Developing a hypothesis requires problem definition. The analyst must have some experience in the subject matter to make a creditable conjecture about the phenomena that is occurring. Proving causality normally results in compromise because there is insufficient data, time, experience, etc. Therefore, when causality cannot be determined, there must be statistical safeguards in place to keep the conclusions of the analysis within the acceptable discovery boundaries. When causality cannot be proven, the study is simply a statistical analysis resulting in a correlation that may not be valid, applicable, or significant.
(DEV-3224) 14 Key Areas to Improving Your Cost and Schedule Team's Performance
Author(s)/Presenters(s): Stephen M. Beck, CCP
Time/Room: MON 11:30-12:30/Gallier AB
Abstract:
Managing technical cost and schedule staff is different than other groups of staff. Cost and schedule staff have unique technical requirements, as well as normal leadership and managerial needs. This paper describes a unique 14-step personnel development system that will clarify staff roles, responsibilities and expectations. It is designed to eliminate stress on staff and managers by implementing rather normal every day actions and is relatively simple to implement. The system does require discipline; however, it will maintain a consistent rhythm of growth and development of staff members. The system is written in order of complexity and is a path of continual growth. The steps are meant to be mastered in order to achieve operational excellence in cost and schedule control.