Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) implementation is not a one-size-fits-all concept. There are multiple ways to tackle the process, and many companies will take slightly different paths. Fortunately, this is a well-trodden path, and lessons have been learned from hundreds of implementations. In this article, we will explore a few of the key do’s and don'ts.

Why Getting AWP Right Matters from the Start

AWP represents a transformative approach that can significantly impact your project's timeline, budget, and overall success. However, the difference between a successful AWP implementation and a costly misstep often comes down to critical decisions made early in the process. Getting AWP right from the beginning sets the foundation for streamlined execution, enhanced collaboration, and measurable ROI. The strategies you employ and the pitfalls you avoid can mean the difference between a project that runs like clockwork and one that struggles to find its rhythm.

The Four Essential Do's of AWP Implementation

Engage Construction and Startup Early in the Planning Phase

One of the most valuable lessons we've learned across hundreds of implementations is this: construction and startup personnel must have a seat at the table from day one. Their input becomes exponentially more valuable and easier to implement during the early stages of a project. Wait too long to incorporate their feedback, and many of your best options disappear. The "Advanced" in Advanced Work Packaging exists precisely because of this early integration. When construction realities inform engineering decisions from the outset, you create a foundation for execution excellence that simply cannot be replicated later in the project lifecycle.

Implement Technology to Accelerate Your AWP Journey

Yes, AWP and Workface Planning can technically be done manually. Planners can sit with stacks of drawings, performing manual estimates, material take-offs, and progress tracking while maintaining vast arrays of spreadsheets. But here's the reality: investing in purpose-built AWP technology typically pays for itself many times over through planner efficiency alone. More importantly, the right technology platform rapidly accelerates your AWP maturity journey by embedding best practices and proven techniques directly into your workflows. Modern AWP software transforms how teams collaborate, visualize, and execute complex construction projects.

Make Construction the Driver of Engineering Decisions

Engineering can no longer operate in isolation. The deliverables from Engineering and Procurement must actively support the planned installation sequence in the field. If Construction determines that the optimal installation sequence flows East to West, Engineering and Procurement need to understand this direction and deliver accordingly. This approach does not mean that Engineering operates without constraints or input. They remain essential voices in the conversation. However, Construction becomes the ultimate "customer" in this relationship. This shift in perspective ensures that every engineering decision considers its downstream impact on field execution.

Align Your Schedule to the Path of Construction

Alignment sits at the heart of successful AWP implementation, and your project schedule represents one of the most critical outputs. A path of construction that shows a specific sequence has zero value if your schedule tells a different story, even when ideally supported by Engineering and Procurement. These two deliverables must be completely synchronized. When they contradict each other, project stakeholders and contractors face constant indecision and disagreement that drains energy and efficiency. Pick a path and build the schedule around it.

The Four Critical Don'ts to Avoid in AWP

Don't Start AWP a Week Before Construction

This is one of the most common mistakes seen in AWP implementations. First, let's be clear: starting AWP activities a week before construction actually means you're doing Workface Planning, not AWP. These terms are not interchangeable, and the distinction matters. Workface Planning is one component of the broader AWP process. While Workface Planning does provide real value in organizing construction activities and deliverables, you've already sacrificed most of AWP's potential benefits if you wait until construction begins. The advanced planning, cross-functional alignment, and strategic sequencing that make AWP powerful must happen much earlier.

Don't Expect All Contractors to Be AWP Experts

The pool of contractors with years of documented AWP experience and expertise remains relatively small, although it grows monthly as the industry evolves. Given this reality, making AWP experience an absolute requirement in contractor selection can unnecessarily limit your options. AWP experience should certainly factor into your evaluation and scoring assessment, but it shouldn't be a deal-breaker. Contractors who demonstrate willingness to embrace and learn the process play a crucial role in expanding AWP success across the industry. Sometimes, an enthusiastic learner with the right attitude outperforms a complacent expert.

Don't Expect Full ROI from Your First Implementation

Perfection on your first AWP implementation is an unrealistic expectation. Even with optimal procedures, experienced consultants, capable contractors, and sophisticated software, every pilot project reveals opportunities for improvement. Don't promise your management team that AWP will deliver 10% savings on Total Installed Cost (TIC) right out of the gate. Instead, start with realistic expectations and build momentum over time. Utilize ROI tools that demonstrate how benefits grow with AWP maturity, and chart a clear path toward maximum success across multiple projects. This honest, incremental approach builds credibility and sustainable improvement.

Don't Introduce AWP After You've Hired Your Contractor

AWP should never be an afterthought or a surprise for any of the reasons outlined above. As an Owner or EPC, you must communicate your intention to use AWP at the earliest possible moment. Include AWP requirements explicitly in bid documents and clearly articulate your expectations for AWP performance. Don't simply state "Do AWP" and hope contractors figure out the details. Contractors consistently execute to the standard you set, whether high or low. Know precisely what you aim to achieve, establish appropriate standards, and hold your contractors accountable to those expectations from contract signing forward.

Partner with O3 Solutions for AWP Success

Successful AWP implementation depends on the right combination of expertise, technology, and support. With over seven years of experience in the Advanced Work Packaging space, O3 Solutions is a leading digital project management software provider for capital projects. We've supported over 500 projects and 20,000 users in their quest to transform how they plan and execute their unique plans.

Our comprehensive platform combines proven best practices with cutting-edge technology to help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize AWP's transformative potential. From early-phase planning through construction execution and startup, we provide the tools and expertise your team needs to deliver projects on time and on budget.

Request a personalized demo today and discover how we can accelerate your AWP journey.