Capital Projects: What Every Executive Needs to Know to Avoid Costly Mistakes and Make Major Investments Pay Off

By Paul Barshop (Author)

First Edition, September 6, 2016

Wiley, 224 pages

This book offers a real-world framework for driving capital project success. Based on the histories of over 20,000 capital projects ranging from $50,000 to $40 billion, it provides an empirically-based approach applicable to all types of capital investment projects, large and small, across various sectors including technology, life sciences, petroleum, consumer products, and more. While grounded in empirical research and rigorous data analysis, the book is a practical, actionable guide that addresses the challenges causing capital projects to fail or underperform. It outlines essential strategies for successful project management using real-world methods relevant at any level. The author reveals concrete solutions to help executives avoid pitfalls and achieve better outcomes.

Businesses often report that 60 percent of their projects fail to meet all business objectives, with IPA’s database showing an average net present value undershoot of initial estimates by 28 percent. This book provides practical guidance to ensure your capital projects are successful.

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