Breaking ground on a project without a master plan is like diving into an empty pool. The basic infrastructure is already established, but it lacks the necessary materials required for success and safety, which in this case, are things like filters, ladders, and most importantly, water. Perhaps down the line, you’d like to add a diving board. What would that cost look like? How would you schedule the implementation? What changes to the pool’s infrastructure need to be made? These are all questions that would need to have a solution for when the time comes for action. 

When it comes to the engineering field, the development of an infrastructure master plan is crucial when determining the needs of existing facilities and any potential additions in the future. Master plans are sophisticated processes that offer a theoretical layout with success in mind for years to come. While a sense of fluidity is taken into consideration because things happen and changes are made on the fly, master plans are typically long-term and require thorough analysis. 

What does a plan include? 

There are plenty of movable pieces on the proverbial board that causes the planning process to be extremely detail-oriented. For a plan to be successful, it must be geared towards making a connection between the social setting, environment, and facilities to offer a timeline that’s accepted by developers, investors, and the community. Developers base their plans on input from the community, the monitoring of economic trends, plans for construction, financial status, social conditions, and the existing structure of the facility. 

There are several key roles a master plan plays in the development process. Here are some they’re capable of managing.

1. Establish a plan of action with a realistic schedule and list of priorities
2. Conceptualize a model that acts as a framework to attract private investors
3. Determine amenities for defined public and private areas
4. Engage the local community to show transparency and subsequently build trust in your cause.

Utilizing a master plan is imperative as they act as the backbone for multi-year timelines project management operations. Without them, your project is just an empty pool filled with tumbleweeds and frustration instead of water and happy, swimming families.