Engineering & Construction Solutions
InterMat’s Consulting Engineering Process Consists of three distinct Phases:
When applied as a formal stage gate process, FEL functions as an approval framework, with gates after each phase to ensure that key stakeholders can make informed investment decisions. Progressing to the project execution stage requires passing each gate. Individual FEL phases, have the potential to be performed independently, depending on the service level needed for a specific capital project. Some projects may also include an FEL-4 phase, which involves the final review and approval of the detailed design before moving into project execution. This is also the phase where all contracts and resources are finalized to commence the project work. It is important to note that FEL (Front-End Loading) typically ends after FEL-3, when the project has passed through the gates necessary for execution.
The FEL process brings significant value to project owners through:
- Better predictability of schedule and costs.
- Lower chances of project failures.
- Enhanced operational efficiency.
- Stronger alignment with business goals.
- Fewer changes to the project scope.
Beyond delivering a comprehensive scope definition and precise cost estimate, FEL offers various valuable deliverables that can be referenced and used throughout the project life cycle. Below are some of the most common FEL deliverables you may encounter.
Conceptual Engineering (10% Design)
Objective: The cornerstone of any project, FEL 1 (Conceptual Engineering) focuses on determining project feasibility and a cursory overview of its technical and economic viability.
Typical Deliverables:
Conceptual Design Package: Develop a conceptual site layout, equipment arrangement(s), flow diagrams, and any needed capacity calculations.
Equipment List: Identifying the major equipment required for the project.
Cost Estimate: Create a Class 5/4 – Project Cost Estimate (0% – 15% Project Definition).
Project Schedule: Create a Level 1 – Project Master Schedule (PMS).Preliminary
Risk Assessment: Identifying potential risks and mitigation strategies.
FEL-1
Basic or Preliminary Engineering Phase (30% Design)
Objective: Building upon the foundation established in FEL 1 (Conceptual Engineering), FEL 2 (Preliminary Engineering) delves deeper into defining and refining the project scope and technical requirements.
Typical Deliverables:
Design Packages: Finalizing all project related drawings, specifications, and data sheets.
- Material Handling
- Civil / Structural
- Mechanical
- Electrical and
- Instrumentation
- Controls
Material Take-Off: Quantify all materials required for execution.
Bid Package Preparation: Develop comprehensive bid packages for vendors, contractors, and other needed execution service providers.
Cost Estimate: Refine cost estimate to AACE Class 2 – Project Cost Estimate (30% – 70% Project Definition)
Project Schedule: Finalizing the project schedule to a Level 3 – Project Coordination Schedule (PCS).
FEL-2
Final Engineering & Execution Planning (60-90% Design)
Objective: Building upon the foundation established in FEL 1 (Conceptual Engineering), FEL 2 (Preliminary Engineering), FEL-3 (Final Engineering) represents the final and most comprehensive stage of the FEL process. It focuses on finalizing the project design and preparing a comprehensive set of documents for bidding and project execution.
Typical Deliverables:
Design Packages: Finalizing all project related drawings, specifications, and data sheets.
- Material Handling
- Civil / Structural
- Mechanical
- Electrical and Instrumentation Controls
Material Take-Off: Quantify all materials required for execution.
Bid Package Preparation: Develop comprehensive bid packages for vendors, contractors, and other needed execution service providers.
Cost Estimate: Refine cost estimate to AACE Class 2 – Project Cost Estimate (30% – 70% Project Definition)
Project Schedule: Finalizing the project schedule to a Level 3 – Project Coordination Schedule (PCS).
FEL-3
Some projects may also include an FEL-4 phase, which involves the final review and approval of the detailed design before moving into construction.
The above phases ensure that the project progresses with increasing detail and certainty, reducing the likelihood of costly changes during later stages. Each phase typically ends with a formal review gate where stakeholders assess the project’s readiness to proceed to the next phase based on the completeness and accuracy of the deliverables.
InterMat: Your trusted Partner in FEL excellence and project success.
InterMat understands the critical nature and importance of each FEL stage and takes pride in delivering high-quality deliverables that meet industry standards while exceeding client expectations. Our expertise and experience in material handling, civil/structural, mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation engineering, scheduling, and cost estimation provide FEL solutions to our clients that ensure project success.
Project Management / Construction Administration
Project Planning & Initiation
- Project execution plan
- Project charter
- Stakeholder register
- Communication plan
Cost Management
- Project budget
- Cost tracking reports
- Change order log
Schedule Management
- Project schedule
- Progress reports
- Resource allocation plan
Quality Management
- Quality management plan
- Inspection reports
- Non-conformance reports
Risk Management
- Risk register
- Risk assessment reports
- Risk response plan
Procurement & Contract Admin
- Procurement plan
- Contracts and agreements
- Vendor/subcontractor performance evaluations
Communication Management
- Communication plan
- Meeting minutes
- Status reports
Construction Documentation & Reporting
- As-built drawings
- Completion reports
Health, Safety, & Environmental Management
- Safety plans and reports
- Environmental impact assessments
Commissioning & Handover
- Commissioning reports
- Punch lists
- Handover documentation
Closeout & Post-Construction Activities
- Closeout documentation
- Lessons learned report
Additional Considerations:
- Change Management – Process for managing changes to project scope, schedule, and budget.
- Performance Monitoring – Metrics and KPIs to track project performance.
- Team Management – Leadership and coordination of project team members.