John Heck
Senior Vice President & General Manager
Boldt
Boldt
John Heck explains how Boldt has implemented Production System Optimization (PSO) in its solar energy projects, showcasing its potential to enhance efficiency and reduce timelines.
Recordings and transcripts of all sessions of the 11th Annual Symposium are available online.
If you registered to attend the symposium in person, please log in to view the recorded sessions.
If you were not a registered symposium attendee and are interested in viewing the presentation recordings, please purchase digital access here. Once you have purchased access, please log in to view the sessions.
John Heck described Boldt’s transition from traditional project management methods to adopting Production System Optimization (PSO). He discussed how this shift builds on the company’s earlier use of lean principles but goes further by focusing on production processes and real-time decision-making. This change has allowed Boldt to achieve greater predictability and efficiency in its projects.
One of the key examples highlighted was a solar energy project generating 150 megawatts of power over 677 acres. This ambitious undertaking required installing 286,000 solar panels. Heck explained how PSO tools enabled Boldt to streamline workflows, effectively allocate resources, and cut project timelines by up to three months. These results were made possible through meticulous planning, real-time data monitoring, and close collaboration among project teams.
Heck also emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By aligning operational strategies with overall project goals, Boldt has created a framework for sustained success. He encouraged industry professionals to adopt production-based approaches to overcome challenges and improve project outcomes.
PPI works to increase the value Engineering and Construction provides to the economy and society. PPI researches and disseminates knowledge related to the application of Project Production Management (PPM) and technology for the optimization of complex and critical energy, industrial and civil infrastructure projects.
The Project Production Institute (PPI) exists to enhance the value Engineering and Construction provides to the economy and society. We are working to:
1) Make PPM the dominant paradigm for the delivery of capital projects,
2) Have project professionals use PPM principles, methods and tools in their everyday work,
3) Create a thriving market for PPM services and tools,
4) Fund and advance global PPM research, development and education (higher and trade), and
5) Ensure PPM is acknowledged, required and specified as a standard by government and regulatory agencies.
To that end, the Institute partners with leading universities to conduct research and educate students and professionals, produces an annual Journal to disseminate knowledge, and hosts events and webinars around the world to discuss pertinent and timely topics related to PPM. In order to advance PPM through access and insight, the Institute’s Industry Council consists of experts and leaders from companies such as Chevron, Google, Microsoft and Merck.
Join us in eliminating chronic poor project delivery performance. Become a member today.