Partnering Program - Level 1 | Montana Department of Transportation (MDT)

Meetings

Kick-Off Meetings

At a Level 1 Partnering kick-off workshop, several key topics are discussed in detail with the leadership of a neutral facilitator:

Project Overview: Provide an overview of the project, including its scope, objectives, timeline, and key stakeholders. Ensure that all participants have a clear understanding of the project's goals and expectations.
Partnering Objectives, Values, and Risk: Discuss the specific objectives and values of personnel on the project team, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, open communication, and shared responsibility. Establish an understanding of how Partnering will be implemented and the desired outcomes for each stakeholder. Identify and discuss how each party can help mitigate risks to the project.
Communication and Issue Resolution: Set expectations for communication channels and protocols, emphasizing the importance of proactive issue identification and resolution. Develop group consensus regarding the use of the Partnering Issue Resolution Ladder and the personnel assigned to the ladder levels for each specific job.

By addressing these topics, the kick-off workshop establishes a common understanding, sets the stage for collaboration, and ensures that all participants are aligned with the partnering process for successful execution of the project. The Partnering Facilitator plays a key role in preparing, coordinating, and leading the large group of participants through discussion of key issues, with the ultimate goal of achieving successful project outcomes and maintaining positive working relationships.

Weekly/Monthly Meetings

Weekly or monthly Partnering meetings are a key component for project success and consistent communication. Project team can expect their Level 1 Facilitator to discuss project goals, objectives, coordination, and solutions. Each meeting builds off of the previous gathering, starting from the initial kick-off.

Closeout Meetings

Closeout Partnering meetings take place after project finalization. This provides project teams the opportunity to reflect, learn, and take pride in their experiences together. At this time, the Level 1 Facilitator will lead discussion regarding lessons learned, team evaluations, and Partnering awards.

Evaluations

Evaluation Form

Partnering survey evaluations should be used with each Level 1 Partnering project with a weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly frequency. The partnering program managers will generally be responsible for initiating and compiling surveys from the owner, prime contractor, and subcontractor crews. This may be achieved by email, on-site computers, or with paper handouts. Additionally, a project closeout survey will be utilized to gather data regarding the team's entire project experience.

Partnering surveys are recommended for Level 2 Partnering projects with a monthly or bi-monthly frequency. The project managers, with the help of the partnering program managers, will be responsible for initiating and compiling surveys from the owner, prime contractor, and subcontractor crews. This may be achieved by email, on-site computers, or with paper handouts. The managers will aid in the discussion of areas of achievement and concern regarding project partnering, with an objective of improved teamwork and job satisfaction.