Develop Program Infrastructure and Implementation Tools

Lessons Learned Handbook:

DOE-HDBK-7502-95

Develop Program Infrastructure and Implementation Tools

Before the lessons learned program can be implemented, it will be necessary to

ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place. A basic infrastructure check list

may include the following:

Program Description

Management Plan

Appropriate Personnel

Defined Roles and Responsibilities

Procedures

Template for Documenting Lessons Learned

Equipment/Computer Hardware and Software

Internet Connection

Orientation/Training

Financial Resources (if necessary)

Corrective Action Identification and Implementation

The lessons learned infrastructure should balance communications with actions taken

to prevent undesirable events and encourage positive actions. The infrastructure

should also balance electronic with non-electronic methods for sharing information.

Non-electronic methods may include developing a process to disseminate hard copies

of lessons learned, establishing a lessons learned newsletter, or other options. (See

"Non-electronic Dissemination" section of this Handbook and Volume II, Appendix VIII

for examples of documents that transmit lessons learned information non-

electronically.)

Lessons Learned procedures should be developed for identifying, documenting,

reviewing, disseminating, and implementing lessons learned; ensuring that all lessons

pass an appropriate level of security and control clearance; and for accessing and

using lessons learned. Elements such as timeliness, style, and level of detail should be

included in these procedures. The DOE Lessons Learned Standard provides guidelines

in these areas. The DOE Lessons Learned Standard was published in May 1995 and is

available from the Office of Scientific and Technical Information, Oak Ridge,

Tennessee. (See also, Volume II, Appendix III for examples of lessons learned

procedures.)

Further implementation tools include forms and standard reporting and screening

formats. For example, it is suggested that each site develop a template for

documenting lessons learned. The consistency achieved through use of a template

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