Process Management

Complex construction and engineering processes increasingly unfold within dynamic environments shaped by social, political, and technological factors. These environments involve diverse actors—such as decision-makers, regulators, technology providers, stakeholders, and risk-bearing participants—each with different interests, resources, and perspectives. As a result, many initiatives in this domain lack clearly defined goals, timelines, or organisational structures, challenging the traditional boundaries of project management. This Master's-level course introduces process management as a complementary approach to project management, essential for navigating the uncertainties and complexities of multi-actor systems, particularly for those endeavours where project management falls short. Students will gain theoretical and practical insights into how processes are initiated, shaped, and influenced through interaction among actors in uncertain and evolving contexts.

The course emphasises the development and application of strategies, tools, and institutional arrangements central to process management. Key themes include stakeholder alignment, negotiation and decision-making under uncertainty, and the governance of adaptive and transitional processes. While rooted in the context of infrastructure and construction, the concepts explored have broader applicability across sectors engaged in complex systems change. Particular attention is given to transition management and adaptive management—critical approaches for addressing major societal challenges such as climate resilience, infrastructure modernisation, and sustainable urban development. Through case studies, simulations, and interactive analysis, students will be equipped to engage with and lead complex change processes in their future professional roles.

Assessment Overview
The course consists of two assessment components:

1. A group assignment (assessed on a pass/fail basis)

2. An individual digital exam (graded)

Further information and guidance on the exam will be provided during the lecture series and through the virtual learning environment.

Grading and exam opportunities

• Students must receive a pass for the group assignment to receive a final grade for the course.

• The grade obtained on the individual written exam will serve as the final course grade, provided all group assignments have been passed.

• The course offers two exam opportunities per academic year.

• Both the group assignment result and the exam grade remain valid independently, even after the academic year has ended.

• To pass the course, a final grade of 5.8 or higher is required.

• The general grading rules of Delft University of Technology apply.

Exam format

• Exams are digital and closed-book.

• They will take place on campus in an exam hall, where computers will be provided.

• The exam will be administered via a secure online environment, including all necessary digital files and resources.

Further Information
For additional details, please consult the Teaching and Examination Regulations of the Master’s programme in Construction Management and Engineering.

Permitted Materials during Exam

• No materials are allowed, except for dictionaries (paper versions).

• Writing materials are not required due to the digital nature of the exam.

• No personal electronic devices are permitted. Only the provided computer may be used.