Risk Management on the National Compact Stellarator Project (NCSX)
Authors: Robert T. Simmons, Philip J. Heitzenroeder, Wayne T. Reiersen, and George H. Neilson, Ronald L. Strykowsky, Donald Rej, Christopher O. Gruber
Abstract:
In its simplest form, risk management is a continuous assessment from project start to completion that identifies what can impact your project (i.e., what the risks are)., which of these risks are important, and identification and implementation of strategies to deal with these risks (both threats and opportunities). The National Compact Stellerator Experiment (NCSX) Project was a "first-of-a-kind" fusion experiment that was technically very challenging, primarily resulting from the complex component geometries and tight tolerances. Initial risk quantification approaches proved inadequate and contributed to the escalation of costs as the design evolved and construction started. After the Project was well into construction, a new risk management plan was adopted. This plan was based on successful Department of Energy (DOE) and industrial risk management precepts. This paper will address the importance of effective risk management processes and lessons learned. It is of note that a steady reduction of risk was observed in the last six months of the project.
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To be presented at: AACE Annual Meeting, June 29-July 1, 2009
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Download PPPL-4378 (pdf 587KB 10pp)
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