Launch of APM Regional Network in Ireland Marks Major Milestone for Project Management Sector

The London-based Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered body for the project management profession, announced the establishment of its Regional Network in the Republic of Ireland. This significant expansion reflects APM’s ongoing commitment to international growth and follows the successful launch of a new Regional Network in Dubai, UAE, in recent weeks.

Celebrating Growth and Development: The project management sector in Ireland has seen remarkable growth over the last few years, in tandem with the current economic growth and the broad range of public and private infrastructure projects undertaken right across the country.

APM’s Regional Network will support growth and professional development in Ireland through a range of events and activities including CPD (Continuing Professional Development) sessions workshops, networking events, and conferences, as well as hosting volunteer opportunities that support specific focus areas like education outreach, corporate engagement, and emerging professional activities. APM is partnering with leading companies and organisations across industries such as finance, IT, construction, and pharma, to drive engagement and facilitate knowledge sharing, with the aim of strengthening industry collaboration in Ireland

Professor Adam Boddison OBE, Chief Executive Officer at APM, stated: “We are delighted to launch our Regional Network in Ireland, making it easier for project management professionals here to broaden and deepen their skills in the sector and to achieve Chartered status within the profession.  Using our knowledge and experience, combined with key stakeholders in the country, we will also look to collaborate at a government level to ensure that Chartership is a mandated standard on significant public projects, thus improving the overall process and contributing to more successful project completions.”

Supporting Ireland’s Ambitious Future: APM’s new Regional Network in Ireland aligns with the Irish government’s “Project Ireland 2040” strategy, which combines the National Planning Framework (NPF) and the National Development Plan (NDP) to guide the country’s future development. This strategy includes €165 billion in capital investment for key areas of the economy, addressing sectors such as public infrastructure, energy, transport, and construction.

Anthony McCarthy, Director at Dublin-based construction and property consultancy, Cogent Associates, will lead the Ireland Regional Network, supported by Deputy Lead, Ricardo Santos, Programme Manager with Iarnród Éireann. Their leadership will ensure the network supports local engagement and professional development through best practices across all sectors.

Mr. McCarthy commented: “Project management, in its many forms, in Ireland is going from strength to strength and offers a varied and rewarding career for professionals across a broad swathe of sectors.  Myself and Ricardo are really excited about playing our part with the Irish Regional Network of the APM in contributing to and developing ever higher professional standards within the project management sector in Ireland”.

How APM’s operational excellence in project management helps to deliver

With more than 50 years of expertise in developing and applying best practice to the project management sector, the APM is at the forefront of the latest developments in project management theory and practice.

The APM Regional Network is arriving at a crucial point in the development of the project management sector in Ireland.  In recent years, the integration of digital technologies is reshaping project execution and management throughout Ireland. Tools such as Data Analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are becoming essential in project planning and operations. The use of Digital Twins – virtual replicas of physical systems – is being explored to optimise urban planning and infrastructure management throughout the country. It is now common to see the use of Data Analytics in risk management and cost estimation, as well as the use of Artificial Intelligence in flood modelling and asset management, amongst others.

The APM Regional Network in Ireland will help to accelerate these developments and contribute to more successful management of projects here, including large scale, multi-faceted ones, some of which, in the past, have run over schedule in terms of both costs and timings.

Anthony McCarthy added: “With the launch of the APM’s Regional Network for Ireland, the Irish economy, and, indeed, project managers like myself who work here, will greatly benefit from the increase in professional standards that the APM will bring.  The Irish Regional Network is hitting the ground running as we already have a number of meetings, workshops and information evenings scheduled for over the coming months”.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the APM or those who want to join the vibrant community of Chartered Project Managers dedicated to addressing Ireland’s pressing challenges and shaping the future of project management here, can contact the Association by email on: volunteers@apm.org.uk or visit apm.org.uk/community/republic-of-ireland-network/

Why Choosing the Right Tools Can Make or Break Your Project

In construction, success often hinges on having the right tools for the job. The tools you use impact every aspect of a project, from its timeline to the quality of the final result. Whether you’re building a home, remodeling a kitchen, or working on a commercial site, the importance of selecting the right tools cannot be overstated.

Using the wrong tools can cause delays, unnecessary expenses, and even safety hazards. Conversely, the right tools not only make the work easier but also ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard. For contractors navigating today’s fast-paced construction environment, making informed decisions about tools is essential. This article will help you understand the key considerations when choosing tools, common challenges to avoid, and the benefits of modern technology in construction.

Understanding the Role of Quality Tools in Construction

Investing in reliable, high-quality tools is crucial for success as a construction professional. Well-made tools are designed to perform specific tasks with precision and dependability, helping to minimize errors and deliver results that meet professional expectations. Additionally, their durability reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements, saving time and money in the long run.

Contractors looking to optimize their workflow can benefit greatly from tools like Hearth’s contractor tools. These solutions are crafted to streamline essential processes such as quoting, financing, and project management. 

It is just as important to choose tools that suit your project’s specific requirements. For example, using a power drill without adequate torque for dense materials can hinder progress and compromise the quality of the work. When purchasing tools, evaluate their compatibility with your tasks, their long-term durability, and whether they offer practical ease of use.

Investing in high-quality tools is one of the smartest decisions you can make as a construction professional. Quality tools are designed to perform specific tasks with precision and reliability, reducing the likelihood of mistakes and ensuring that your work meets professional standards. They are also built to last, meaning fewer repairs and replacements over time.

Common Challenges Faced When Using the Wrong Tools

Choosing the wrong tools can cause more harm than good, turning what should be a straightforward project into a frustrating ordeal. One common issue is slower progress. Tools that aren’t suited to the job can make tasks take much longer than necessary, leading to delays and increased labor costs.

Another problem is the risk of material damage. For instance, using the wrong type of saw blade for a specific material can result in jagged edges or even ruin the material entirely. These errors not only waste resources but also reflect poorly on your professionalism.

Safety concerns are another major challenge. Tools that are not designed for the task at hand can increase the likelihood of accidents, putting workers at risk of injury. For example, using an improperly sized ladder can lead to falls, while inadequate protective gear can result in serious harm.

Understanding the limitations of your tools and their intended uses is key to avoiding these issues. Taking the time to research and select the right tools can save you from unnecessary complications and help you maintain a safe, productive worksite.

 

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Construction Tools

Selecting the right tools starts with understanding your project requirements. Every construction task has unique needs; your tools should be tailored to those demands. Begin by evaluating the materials you’ll be working with and the type of work required. For example, tools for working with concrete differ significantly from those used for wood or metal.

Durability is another crucial factor. Construction tools endure heavy use, so it’s important to invest in products made from high-quality materials. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, they often wear out quickly and can lead to higher costs in the long run.

Ease of use is equally important. Tools that are difficult to operate can slow down work and increase the likelihood of mistakes. Look for ergonomic designs that reduce fatigue and enable workers to perform tasks more efficiently.

Finally, consider the manufacturer’s brand and reputation. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and choose tools from companies known for their reliability and customer support. A little research upfront can go a long way toward ensuring you make a smart purchase.

 

The Benefits of Modern Construction Technology

Advancements in construction technology have revolutionized the way projects are completed, offering tools that improve accuracy and save time. For example, laser levels provide precise measurements, eliminating the guesswork often associated with traditional leveling tools. Similarly, digital measuring devices allow you to take quick, accurate readings, streamlining the planning process. Tools like a truss design calculator online further enhance efficiency by providing precise calculations for structural designs, ensuring safety and compliance with building standards.

Smart tools equipped with Bluetooth connectivity or app integrations are also becoming more popular. These tools can help contractors monitor progress, track usage, and even perform diagnostics, making them a valuable asset for larger projects. They also reduce the margin for error, ensuring that measurements and calculations are accurate.

Modern technology has also introduced tools that enhance safety. For example, automated nail guns and anti-vibration drills reduce physical strain on workers, allowing them to focus on the quality of their work. Additionally, wearable technology, such as smart helmets, provides real-time data about site conditions, helping to prevent accidents.

In conclusion, choosing the right tools is vital to any construction project. From improving efficiency to ensuring worker safety, the right tools can make the difference between a successful project and one plagued by delays and setbacks.

Contractors can create a safe, productive, and professional work environment by focusing on quality, investing in modern technology, and prioritizing proper training. The time and effort spent selecting the right tools are well worth it, as they lead to better results, satisfied clients, and long-term success in the construction industry.

Understanding Critical Project Information: Practical Work Tips for Successful Management

Managing a project effectively requires understanding and utilizing critical information at every stage. Whether it’s during planning, execution, or evaluation, the ability to organize and act on data can significantly influence the project’s outcome. Success in project management hinges not only on meeting deadlines but also on aligning the project’s goals with broader organizational objectives. By mastering essential strategies and leveraging modern tools, project managers can improve efficiency, ensure team collaboration, and achieve consistent results. This article offers practical tips to help you navigate challenges, streamline workflows, and drive success, no matter the scale of your project.

Setting Clear Objectives

Every successful project begins with well-defined objectives. These serve as the foundation for decision-making and resource allocation. Take time to align your goals with your organization’s priorities and ensure all stakeholders understand the project’s purpose. Use measurable benchmarks to assess progress and adjust strategies when needed.

Incorporating digital tools can help streamline this process. Project management software, for instance, offers templates for goal-setting and tracking progress, saving time and ensuring consistency. This clarity not only motivates your team but also ensures everyone remains focused on the end goal.

Organizing Project Information

Effective project management depends on how well you can organize and access critical information. Organizing data efficiently prevents delays, reduces errors, and facilitates better decision-making. Begin by centralizing all project documentation, including timelines, budgets, and task lists, into a single platform. A useful strategy is to use platforms like Factor, which can help managers prioritize and distribute workload effectively. By enabling a clear overview of tasks and deadlines, these tools empower teams to stay on track and reduce communication breakdowns.

Managing Resources Wisely

Resource management is a cornerstone of project success. This includes allocating finances, personnel, and time judiciously to ensure every aspect of the project receives the attention it requires. Start by creating a detailed resource plan that anticipates potential bottlenecks and identifies areas requiring additional support.

Monitoring resource usage throughout the project lifecycle is equally critical. Leverage technology to track resource consumption and adjust allocations as the project evolves. By maintaining oversight, you can prevent the overuse of resources, cut unnecessary expenses, and boost team efficiency.

Effective Communication Strategies

Strong communication is vital for successful project management. Keeping stakeholders informed and engaged fosters trust and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings. Regular updates, whether through meetings, emails, or project dashboards, ensure that everyone is aligned.

Tailor your communication style to suit different audiences. While detailed reports may be necessary for senior management, concise summaries can be more effective for frontline team members. Furthermore, encourage open dialogue within the team to address challenges quickly and maintain a collaborative environment.

Prioritizing Tasks and Deadlines

A common challenge in project management is juggling multiple tasks and deadlines. Prioritization is the key to overcoming this hurdle. Begin by categorizing tasks based on urgency and importance. Focus your resources on high-priority tasks while scheduling lower-priority ones for later. Use project management tools to visualize your task list and identify potential overlaps or conflicts. These platforms often include Gantt charts or Kanban boards, which can provide a clear timeline for task completion and keep your team aligned.

Adapting to Challenges

No project is immune to setbacks. Whether it’s unforeseen delays, budget constraints, or scope changes, adaptability is crucial. Prepare for challenges by building flexibility into your project plan. Include contingency budgets, realistic timelines, and alternative strategies to minimize disruption.

When challenges arise, approach them with a problem-solving mindset. Involve your team in brainstorming solutions, as diverse perspectives often lead to innovative ideas. Remember that adaptability is not just about reacting to problems but also about learning from them to improve future project planning.

Measuring and Reporting Success

As the project nears completion, evaluating its success becomes a top priority. Establish criteria for success early in the planning phase, such as achieving goals within budget or meeting deadlines. Regularly monitor progress against these benchmarks and report findings to stakeholders.

Invest in reporting tools that simplify data visualization, making it easier to present complex information clearly. Effective reporting not only demonstrates the value of the project but also highlights areas for improvement, setting the stage for more successful projects in the future.

Understanding and managing critical project information is essential for achieving successful outcomes and maintaining stakeholder satisfaction. From defining clear objectives to adopting tools for seamless task management, every aspect of a project requires deliberate attention. Effective resource allocation, strong communication, and adaptability form the foundation of successful project management. By applying these strategies, you can create a streamlined process that not only meets goals but also fosters growth and innovation. Embracing a proactive approach ensures your projects consistently deliver value while setting the stage for long-term success in a dynamic business environment.

PMI National Project Awards celebrate rising leaders and standout successes in Irish project management

The Ireland Chapter of Project Management Institute (PMI) announces the winners of this year’s PMI National Project Awards, in association with PwC. The winners of the 2024 Awards were announced at a black-tie event held at PwC’s Dublin office on Thursday 14 November.

These prestigious awards celebrate the significant contribution and excellence of project management in Ireland, showcasing the best in innovation and talent in the profession. As well as individuals and teams who demonstrate exceptional potential, dedication and success in their field, the annual awards – now in their eighth year – also highlight transformative and inspiring projects.

From the application of Robotic Process Automation in healthcare to a climate action strategy within the agricultural space, this year’s event celebrated project management across various industries and demonstrates the growing influence and success of project management in the Irish economy.

Amongst the individuals commended during the awards were five Under-35 Changemakers. Laura McDermott was the ultimate recipient. McDermott founded Colectivo, a project-based sustainability consultancy dedicated to driving impactful change by connecting visionary thinkers and practical innovators with organisations.

The awards add to the Rising Leader Award notably bestowed upon Sinead Gallagher, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Ireland Chapter of PMI, earlier this year at the 2024 Global PMI Professional Awards.

The full list of winners, chosen following careful consideration of a record number of submissions by an independent judging panel*, can be found below.

  • PMO of the Year (sponsored be Velopi) – Aerogen
  • Project Professional of the Year (sponsored by emagine) – Ian Fitzsimons (Project Management Consultant, Expleo)
  • Private Sector Project of the Year (sponsored by Expleo) – Primark: ‘Next Generation Global Wide Area Network Solution’
  • Public Sector Project of the Year (sponsored by Saros) – Health Service Executive (HSE): ‘The Cork University Hospital / Mercy University Hospital Paediatric Reconfiguration project’
  • Project Management for Social Good (sponsored by Irish Emergency Alliance) – ActionAid Ireland: ‘Together, we are stronger’
    • Under-35 Changemakers of the Year (sponsored by Ireland Chapter of PMI) – Laura McDermott (CEO, Colectivo) was the ultimate recipient in this category
    • Note, the following four were commended in this category: Kevin Quinlan (Data Governance & Quality Lead, ESB), Sean Higgins (Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) & Strategy Lead for Dublin Airport Authority), Rebecca Keenan (Global Head of Intelligent Automation Solutions Director, Expleo Group), and James Doggard (Senior Project Manager, KSN Project Management)
  • AI and Technology Project of the Year (sponsored by PwC) – Health Service Executive (HSE), Technology & Transformation: ‘Waiting List Batch Suspensions Automation, Galway University Hospital’
  • Special Category: Excellence in Innovation Projects of The Year (sponsored by Cornmarket and Ireland Chapter of PMI) – Teagasc: ‘Teagasc’s Climate Action Strategy 2022-2030’; and Health Service Executive (HSE): ‘Enhanced Community Care (ECC)’
  • PMI Ireland Volunteer Award – Mark Davenport
  • PMI Ireland Special Achievement Award – Jackie Fagan, Past President of the Ireland Chapter of PMI

Speaking about the awards, Peter Glynne, President of the Ireland Chapter of PMI, said: “Once again, we are delighted to be celebrating the individuals and innovations driving change. These are the people and projects which showcase the best of project management in Ireland and how it contributes to the country’s success both nationally and internationally. As well as bigger and more ambitious projects, this year’s awards were also bigger with more entries and categories than ever before – indicating a very bright future for Ireland.”

Keiran Barbalich, Partner in PwC Ireland and Leader for the firm’s Portfolio and Programme Management, added: “Success in project management is vital for our economy. Over a quarter of Ireland’s CEOs do not believe that their businesses will be viable in a decade without reinvention. AI and technology are at the centre of this reinvention, and with their technological expertise, Ireland’s project managers play a vital role in this transformation. We are delighted to sponsor the National Project Management Institute (PMI) Awards for the eighth year running and, in particular, to also sponsor the AI and Technology Project of the Year Award. We commend each and every one of the finalists and a huge congratulations to the winners.”

Microsoft announces pioneering green hydrogen pilot project with ESB

Microsoft announced today that it has entered into an agreement with ESB that will see its data centre power control and administration building in Dublin be powered by zero emissions green hydrogen power. The landmark pilot project is the first time that Hydrogen Fuel Cells will be used to provide electricity to a Microsoft data centre in Europe, supplying up to 250kW of clean energy to Microsoft’s Dublin campus over an eight-week period.

ESB’s zero-emission Hydrogen Fuel Cells convert stored green hydrogen to electricity, with the only by-product being pure water. Designed to replace diesel generators, Hydrogen Fuel Cells produce no carbon emissions or harmful local air pollutants such as particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, which can have significant health and environmental impacts.

The groundbreaking pilot is part of a series planned by ESB in 2024 and 2025 to showcase the versatility of hydrogen fuel cell technology in different power applications.  The pilot is the first step in demonstrating the potential impact that hydrogen energy can have in helping to decarbonise the strategically important data centre sector in Ireland.

Commenting on the launch of the pilot, Eoin Doherty, Vice President, EMEA Regional Leader, Microsoft Cloud Operations + Innovation, said: “The green hydrogen project we’re launching with ESB is a pioneering first for Microsoft in Europe, demonstrating how zero-emissions hydrogen can be harnessed to power our digital lives. If scaled successfully, it could provide new ways of advancing sustainability in our sector and beyond.”

Lavinia Morris, General Manager, Microsoft’s EMEA Data Centre Operations, commented further: “This pilot project is another important step in our journey to transition to carbon-free electricity supply for our data centres, buildings, and campuses around the world. As we look to advance a more sustainable future, we hope to build on the success of this pilot project and continue to find innovative ways to decarbonise our operations.”

Jim Dollard, ESB Executive Director, Generation and Trading, commented: “ESB believe green hydrogen will play an important role in the net zero energy system of the future. We’re delighted to be working with Microsoft on this innovative pilot project that will showcase the potential for green hydrogen as part of zero emission electricity generation for data centres.” 

Microsoft’s Hydrogen Fuel Cell pilot project, in collaboration with ESB, is aligned with the ‘Principles for Sustainable Data Centre Development’ set out by Government in its 2022 policy statement by supporting the development of data centres that make efficient use of the electricity grid and delivering renewable energy.

Today’s announcement to harness green hydrogen is one of many steps and innovations that Microsoft is bringing to the data centre sector to ensure the sustainability of its existing and future cloud and AI infrastructure. In 2020, Microsoft announced an ambitious set of goals, encompassing all global infrastructure and operations, to be a carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste company that protect ecosystems by 2030.

As well as investing in innovative technologies, Microsoft is playing a key role in helping to decarbonise the electricity grid. In November 2022, Microsoft announced new renewable energy contracts related to the development of more than 900 megawatts of onshore wind and solar energy projects in Ireland alone. The projects will see Microsoft significantly contribute to the Irish Government’s 2030 corporate power purchase agreement (CPPA) target.

This pilot project also builds upon Microsoft’s ongoing testing and innovation in the area of hydrogen power, more of which is detailed here.

Brittany Ferries to Explore All-Electric Zero-Emissions Ferry Project

Brittany Ferries and industry partners, Wärtsilä1 and Incat2 have signed a partnership deal to explore design and technical requirements for a 137m zero-emissions ferry.

The project comes as Brittany Ferries nears completion of the biggest fleet renewal programme in its history. Five new vessels will have joined the fleet between 2020 and 2025, including two LNG-powered ships (currently in service) and two shore-power-ready LNG-electric hybrids.

The tripartite deal brings together heavyweight marine partners with complementary strengths. Expertise includes design and construction of fast craft, all aspects of engineering and technical needs, and experience in operating a large and diverse fleet.

Wärtsilä is a supplier to all five new ships in Brittany Ferries’ on-going fleet renewal project. This includes LNG engines that power Salamanca, which joined the fleet in 2022, and Santoña in 2023. In addition, Wärtsilä is installing LNG-hybrid drivetrains for hybrid vessels, currently under construction and set to sail for Europe by the end of this year.

Brittany Ferries took delivery of an Incat fast-ferry in 2005. Under the name Normandie Express, she sped from Tasmania to France and served the company until 2021. She is currently under charter from Brittany Ferries to Condor Ferries operating with the name Condor Voyager. She operates St Malo – Channel Islands routes.

Brittany Ferries is a minority shareholder of Condor Ferries and chief executive Christophe Mathieu is also Condor’s CEO.

“This is an important project as we look at different ways to reach net zero by 2050,” said Christophe Mathieu. “All-electric power is a potential solution, best suited to shorter ferry routes. At this stage we don’t know what is feasible, and upon which route, but what we can say is that trusted partners will help us scope it out. Upon completion of the project we can move quickly. Brittany Ferries has a track record of walking the talk when it comes to leading the industry on sustainable ferry travel, as our investment in LNG and hybrid ships shows.”

“Ferries play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for environmentally sustainable transport options, and the investment Wärtsilä makes in R&D to develop technologies and integrated solutions are key in enabling this development,” added Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine and Executive Vice President at Wärtsilä Corporation. “This is why we are proud to have been selected to support Brittany Ferries in their goal of bringing cleaner vessels to the regions in which they operate. As a leader in shaping the decarbonisation of the marine industry, we value our long-term relationship with both Brittany Ferries and Incat, sharing a joint commitment to accelerate the industry towards net-zero emissions shipping.”

“Incat has long standing and successful relationships with Brittany Ferries and Wärtsilä, built upon shared values and a vision for innovation and environmental sustainability,” added Stephen Casey, Chief Executive Officer of Incat,  “We know that battery electric propulsion coupled with lightweight aluminium vessels is the ideal choice to eliminate emissions, and we are thrilled to be continuing our relationship with both Brittany Ferries and Wärtsilä as we collectively lead the next evolution of sustainable maritime transport throughout Europe.”

National award for innovative Galway Graveyards Mapping Project

Galway County Council has received national recognition for an innovative digital project that mapped over 40,000 graveyard memorial records across County Galway and made them publicly available online.

The ‘Digitising Galway’s Graveyard Heritage’ project was last night (Thursday) named overall winner of the ‘Community Engagement’ category of Esri Ireland’s annual ‘Customer Success Awards’ held in Dublin’s Anantara The Marker Hotel.

Working with and supported by Galway Rural Development, Forum Connemara, The Heritage Council, The National Monuments Service and Galway County Community Archaeology Service, Galway County Council provided funding to local groups to employ experts to train local communities to use mobile technology and to undertake drone mapping of graveyards resulting in a public release of 40,000 records from across the county via the Local Authority’s Open Data Portal.

This is the second national award to be picked up by the project after it was named winner at the Public Sector Digital Transformation Awards last October.

Welcoming the award win, Cllr. Liam Carroll, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council commented, “The success of the Digital Mapping of Graveyards Project is the result of forensic research and cutting-edge surveying work by the Local Authority’s Heritage department and local communities across Galway. This award win is testament to the innovative nature of the project and its benefit to the diaspora and academia at home and abroad.”

Outlining the background to the project, Barry Doyle, Geographic Information System (GIS) project lead for Galway County Council said, “We have been working with various community groups and organisations to collect and collating valuable data relating to those who are buried in various graveyards for several years.”

“Galway County Council, with funding from the Heritage Council, the Open Data Engagement Fund and its own resources developed and made available a mobile app specifically for use by surveyors at the local level for memorial surveys, along with associated data management and validation processes,” he added. “This technology, along with drone technology, was made available to local community groups to expand the number of graveyards in the project resulting in the 40,000 records that are now publicly available.”

Esri Ireland is the global market leader in GIS and their software is used widely in Ireland in both public and private sector organisations, including most local authorities.

The Galway County Digital Mapping of Graveyards Project may be viewed at galwaycoco.maps.arcgis.com and data.gov.ie.

Guerbet Launch Solar Project to Power 18% of Pharmaceutical Operations in Dublin

Guerbet, a pioneer global pharmaceutical company specializing in medical imaging and contrast agents, has launched its first solar farm at its API manufacturing site in Dublin, coinciding with the celebration of its 30th year in operation.

2.4MW solar farm will meet 18% of the company’s total electricity requirements:

Guerbet entered a contract with Enerpower powered by Greenvolt, a leading renewable energy company, for the construction of a 2.4MW solar farm at the Guerbet site in Damastown in 2022.

The two companies entered into a Corporate Power Purchase Agreement where Guerbet has guaranteed to purchase the solar PV electrical power for a period of 20 years. The solar farm is constructed on land owned by Guerbet and will provide the equivalent to the electricity consumption of 500 households.

The project will deliver 18% of the site’s electrical power on an annualised basis, and during the peak summer months could potentially power the plant without addition of electricity from the grid during daylight hours.

The initiative aligns with Guerbet’s strategy and its People and Planet Corporate Social Responsibility positioning for reducing carbon footprint as it looks forward to the next 30 years.

David Hale, CEO of Guerbet Group indicates: “At Guerbet, our purpose is ‘Building lasting relationships that enable people to live better’, and preserving our planet is a foundational part of that purpose.  In 2023, we made a commitment validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) to reduce our carbon emissions by 27,5% for Scope 1+2 and 13,5% for Scope 3 by 2032. Our partnership with Enerpower is a great example of a relationship that will help us achieve those objectives.”

David Forde, Site Lead at Guerbet Dublin said: “Guerbet has a long history of innovation, growth, and service in the pharmaceutical industry. This new Corporate Power Purchase Agreement will produce renewable electricity for our API manufacturing site in Damastown and is a significant development in our long-term strategy to significantly reduce carbon emissions at the site. Guerbet joined the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) which encourages ambitious climate action in the private sector by allowing companies to set science-based emission reduction targets. This is a further step on that journey.”

It also comes as the company celebrates 30-years of operation in Ireland. Over the past three decades, Guerbet has continuously strived for excellence, delivering cutting-edge medical imaging solutions and contrast agents to healthcare professionals worldwide, as well as offering highly skilled employment in the area.”

John Carty, CCO of Enerpower powered by Greenvolt stated“We are delighted to partner with Guerbet on their first solar energy project. Similarly to Guerbet’s ethos we too endeavour to build lasting relationships with our customers and are delighted to add Guerbet to our list of clients using solar energy in Ireland.”

Guerbet marks 30 years of operation in Ireland, employing over 130 skilled workers

The site in Dublin began production in 1994 and currently boasts a workforce of over 130 skilled professionals at the Damastown location. This local presence contributes to the company’s global footprint, which spans across the 5 continents with 2,830 employees worldwide.

Guerbet develops and manufacture contrast media, which are instrumental in improving the visibility of internal organs, blood vessels, and tissues during medical imaging procedures.

Every second, somewhere in the world a patient undergoes an imaging procedure with a Guerbet product. More than 60,000 health professionals rely on the contrast agents to diagnose disease and assess treatment efficacy.

Advanced Technology Solutions for Better Project Management

Success in the frantic world of contemporary business depends on efficient project management. Advanced technological solutions are becoming more and more necessary as enterprises grow and industries change. We’ll look at cutting-edge technologies in this blog article that have the potential to completely transform project management and improve productivity, teamwork, and overall success. From artificial intelligence (AI) to cloud-based platforms, these tools are reshaping the way projects are planned, executed, and monitored.

 

I. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Project Management

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are at the forefront of transforming project management. These technologies can analyze vast amounts of data, providing valuable insights for decision-making. AI-powered tools can automate repetitive tasks, freeing up valuable time for project managers to focus on strategic planning and problem-solving. For instance, predictive analytics can help anticipate potential risks and issues, allowing teams to proactively address challenges before they escalate. As AI continues to evolve, its integration into project management systems promises increased accuracy and efficiency.

II. Cloud-Based Project Management Platforms

Cloud-based project management platforms have become essential for teams working across different locations. These platforms offer real-time collaboration, allowing team members to access project data from anywhere, at any time. This accessibility fosters seamless communication and ensures that everyone is on the same page. Additionally, cloud-based solutions provide robust storage capabilities, enabling the secure storage and retrieval of project-related documents. This not only streamlines workflow but also enhances data security.

III. Unleashing the Power of Software for Effective Risk and Project Management

Modern project management software goes beyond mere task tracking, offering a robust framework for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks. As experts at Lewis Woolcott Tech emphasize, software features detailed and comprehensive analysis and modeling. It predicts potential resource losses and costs through delays and commercial conflict. These tools provide real-time insights into project progress, enabling proactive decision-making to prevent potential roadblocks. With features like risk registers, predictive analytics, and scenario planning, organizations can anticipate challenges and implement strategies to safeguard project timelines and budgets.

IV. Collaborative Tools and Communication Platforms

Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful project management. Collaborative tools and communication platforms facilitate seamless interaction among team members, irrespective of geographical location. Features such as instant messaging, video conferencing, and virtual collaboration spaces enhance communication efficiency. These tools promote transparency, reduce miscommunication, and foster a sense of unity among team members. Utilizing such platforms ensures that everyone involved in the project is well-informed and engaged, contributing to overall project success.

V. Blockchain for Enhanced Project Transparency

Blockchain technology is gaining traction for its ability to enhance transparency and security in project management. By providing an immutable and decentralized ledger, blockchain ensures the integrity of project-related transactions and data. This can be particularly valuable in supply chain management and industries where traceability is crucial. Implementing blockchain in project management not only reduces the risk of fraud but also increases accountability, as all changes to the project data are recorded and can be audited.

Organizations have a wide range of technologies at their disposal to improve productivity and complete projects successfully, from utilizing artificial intelligence for data analysis to guaranteeing strong cybersecurity measures. Cloud-based platforms, collaborative tools, and blockchain technology further contribute to creating a seamless and transparent project management environment. As businesses continue to evolve, embracing these technological advancements becomes imperative for staying ahead in the competitive landscape.