Running FEL-0 Successfully

1. Problem & Opportunity Statement Define the business need and value proposition. Write a brief scope statement explaining why the project matters (safety upgrade, capacity expansion, etc.) and what success looks like. Include high-level constraints like budget caps and strategic goals.

2. High-Level Options & Constraints List feasible alternatives (different technologies or sites) and key constraints (permits, resource availability, environmental factors). For each option, sketch an approximate cost and timeline at a very high level.

3. Go/No-Go Recommendation Based on the first two steps, decide which options to pursue. Estimate the FEL-1 budget needed and summarize key uncertainties. Provide a clear recommendation to proceed with FEL-1 or not.

To avoid scope gaps, use a simple checklist or PDRI tool during FEL-0. The Construction Industry Institute notes that a Project Definition Rating Index helps teams identify critical scope elements and risk factors early. This ensures nothing obvious is overlooked before handoff.

A concise opportunity assessment report covering these elements will set FEL-1 up for success.

We often lead clients through an FEL-0 workshop, producing a compact opportunity assessment report and go/no-go decision memo. These deliverables fall under our Additional Services and feed directly into structured FEL-1 planning.