The use of “The Observational Method” could be one of the best kept secrets of the engineering world. Time and time again it has been used to deliver world leading projects safely and cost effectively. In some cases it has been the only way forward when other methods have failed. The powerful methodology has been used for several decades to minimise risk and maximise efficiency on some of the world’s biggest projects including the Channel Tunnel, Boston’s Central Artery, Heathrow Airport, Wembley’s iconic arch, The Queen Elizabeth Line and HS2. 

In this podcast we examine how this understated yet deeply effective method can be used to deliver better projects and how the evolution of design and technology using new machine learning software called Daarwin is elevating its potential.

GUESTS

Tony O’Brien, global practice lead for geotechnics, Mott MacDonald

Alistair Hitchcock, head of engineering phase 2, HS2

Hock Liong Liew, technical principal, Mott MacDonald

Alan Powderham, former director of transportation, Mott MacDonald

Sophie Smith, graduate civil engineer, Mott MacDonald

Rob Talby, geotechnical director, Mott MacDonald

PARTNER

Mott MacDonald is a global engineering, management and development consultancy focussed on improving society by considering social outcomes and relentlessly focussing on excellence and digital innovation.

REFERENCES

Ralph Peck’s 1969 Rankine lecture, Advantages and limitations of the observational method in applied soil mechanics

The Observational Method in Civil Engineering: Minimising Risk, Maximising Economy, by Alan Powderham and Anthony O’Brien