NA-CONS sets standards

22 DECEMBER,2024 | By Deepti Kandhol

Launched in 2021, the North Area Consolidation project (NA-CONS) is all about ensuring that the North Experimental Area (NA) facilities at CERN's SPS remain reliable, efficient, and ready for the future. With a focus on upgrading infrastructure and maximizing beam time access, the team started its mission to consolidate, enhance, and future-proof these critical facilities – all while keeping operations running smoothly for test-beam users and experiments.

A systematic approach underpinned every step, supported by CERN’s in-house OpenSE methodology and internationally recognized standards like PMBok (PMI). From planning to execution, the team employed a robust mix of tools such as PLAN, MS-Project, and spreadsheets, keeping the master schedule resource-loaded and interdependencies mapped. Earned Value Management (EVM) was used to track progress across key parameters like planning, resources, and risks.

Each step of the project was carefully choreographed:

1. Tasks were outlined, and precise timelines were crafted for every work package.
   
   
   
2. PLAN software integrated with the master schedule to manage resources and dependencies.
   
   
   
3. Key milestones were monitored bi-weekly, ensuring progress stayed on track.
   
   
4. Deviations were identified early, with critical path analysis guiding swift corrective actions. For instance, during the EYETS23-24 de-cabling campaign in BA81-TTs, co-activity conflicts were mitigated with agile planning and stakeholder collaboration.
5. Linear planning and data-driven arbitration ensured smooth operations during YETS and EYETS periods.

This structured approach allows us to adapt quickly to changes, minimise risks, and maintain consistency across all tools. Like any complex project, NA-CONS faces hurdles. Managing diverse stakeholders, addressing manual processes, and ensuring data quality were no small feats. These challenges were tackled head-on through collaboration, regular performance reviews, and careful coordination. In June 2024, the NA-CONS methodology was showcased at CERN’s 1st Accelerator Technology Sector Workshop, where it earned high praise and excellent visibility. This recognition highlighted the dedication and collaboration across the team, work packages, and stakeholders.

NA-CONS also served as a testbed for innovation. Project data became the foundation for exploring future paradigms in project management software, potentially replacing existing CERN-wide tools. This pilot study underscored the forward-thinking and innovative spirit driving the initiative.

As the NA-CONS project progresses, it continues to demonstrate what collaboration and careful planning can accomplish, laying the groundwork for a more robust and reliable North Experimental Area.