Performance of mid-project reviews (MPRs): Quantification based on fuzzy recognition

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to develop and validate an innovative Fuzzy Recognition Based-Benefit Estimation Model (FRB-BEM) to quantify the benefits obtained from a Mid-Project Review (MPR) (e.g. the Gateway Review Process (GRP)). This is a quantitative assessment to evaluate the benefits obtained from conducting MPRs. With the wide adoption of MPR internationally, such measurements will better support critical decisions in capital projects and also assist to optimize project lifecycle performance. Design/methodology/approach: This paper adopted Relative Membership Degree (RMD) based fuzzy sets as the fundamental theory to develop the FRB-BEM utilizing linguistic information from MPR reports. It was then tested by analysis of an aviation IT project that underwent a Gateway review. A parametric study was also conducted to calibrate the model. Findings: The FRB-BEM developed and validated in this paper provided a viable approach to quantify the total benefits obtained from undertaking MPRs. Research limitations/implications: Refinement of the FRB-BEM assumptions would benefit from testing against a wide project sample set. Practical implications: Using the FRB-BEM applications to better demonstrate the benefits of MPRs. Originality/value: The paper demonstrates how FRB-BEM has extended RMD based fuzzy sets theory into applications for MPRs and incorporated fuzzy level values based on linguistic interpretation of hard data.