Abstract
With design ever changing, there is importance in ensuring effective early management of the design
process, which ensures improved design quality, stakeholder satisfaction, and a possibility to increase
asset in-use life. These improvements can be achieved through the application of Design
Management. Design Management is defined as a systematic approach that considers current
processes influencing business design and the application of the design management elements to
create more innovative solutions that display a higher product quality while ensuring the customer
and stakeholder requirements are satisfied. Through its approach, improved management of the
design activities is achieved while ensuring effective communication with all stakeholders throughout
the process.
With design management showing great value in literature, the question was raised as to what level
of efficiency can such a methodology provide within the Oil and Gas industry. This formed part of the
primary objective of this research study, where the researcher aimed to develop a conceptual
framework for design management that will ensure the end-to-end management of
design/construction projects within the Oil and Gas industry. The study also focused on identifying if
there was value in applying such a methodology within the Oil and Gas industry and what some of the
barriers to its implementation may be. Literature on design management was identified to determine
the best practices that were considered in design management. Through the study, the elements of
design management were identified, which included design process management, design risk
management, asset integrity management, requirement engineering, design for excellence, proactive
design, and change management. These elements were further expanded to identify the best
practices and possible barriers. A qualitative study was conducted where data was collected through
the analysis of case studies, with four studies being reviewed. Additional data collection was done
through questionnaires with 50 respondents within the Oil and Gas Industry participating in the study.
The data was then consolidated to form the framework. Case study analysis highlighted the
importance of the various elements of design management. It noted that correctly identifying the
business's strategy and customer requirements is critical for the success of a design. Effective sign-off
ensures that the design is in line with the given requirements. Barriers to the implementation of design
management were also highlighted. The business culture and management style stood out.
Management buy-in is required to drive such a framework. There would also be a mind shift change
required as people may be set in their ways of working and introducing such a methodology may be
seen as another admin task taking away from crucial delivery. Data collected from respondents
showed that some design management elements were practiced, but there was room for
improvement. Oil and Gas industries have various processes present, and respondents saw value in
integrating such a framework. Respondents echoed the barriers highlighted in the literature and the
case study analysis that management buy-in is required to drive this methodology.
Overall, the aim of the study was achieved as a conceptual framework for the Oil and Gas industry was
developed. The data suggests that Oil and Gas industries could have value with such a framework, but
the various barriers must be managed. Value can be achieved if it is followed through effectively, but
management must drive the process to ensure the results are obtained. Design management as a
methodology showed that improved quality design and stakeholder/customer satisfaction can be
achieved when integrated within a organisation.