• International conference on construction engineering and project management
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• 2024.07a
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• pp.698-705
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• 2024

Large-scale infrastructure projects are often characterized by a high degree of innovation but are also accompanied by uncertainties and risks. In university research projects, the complexity is even higher because, in addition to unknown factors, like unclear paths forward, they come with adaptive targets. These lead to higher uncertainties, and it is crucial to adhere to the magic triangle of project management to continuously monitor and ensure the achievement of the project goals. Additionally, in research, a dead-end does not inevitably lead to the failure of the project, but mostly it leads to new opportunities. This paper explores the relationship between project goals and risk management of university projects to create a tailored project plan. First, the challenges and needs were mapped out through a survey of ten project leaders at our university. This survey helped us understand the problems and led to a new approach for university projects. Second, the new approach including adjusted risk management and methodology is developed. Third, the results were combined with a project plan using a probabilistic methodology to modify the approach through predictive evaluations. This includes integrated cost, time, and risk analysis. The probabilistic results are based on a Monte Carlo simulation. In the paper differences and similarities between the management of large-scale infrastructure projects and research projects are highlighted. Therefore, a process for creating an exemplary, holistic project plan using a digital twin, which helps to optimize the management strategy for research is presented. Furthermore, the project plan is tailored to the needs of applied research, so that the results of the research can be useful for the industry.