SYNOPSIS   

The Observational Method (OM) is a powerful and practical technique that can deliver significant programme, cost, safety, and carbon benefits. The method explicitly links design assumptions to real‐time observations and pre‐defined contingency actions during construction. This enables projects to commence safely using more cautious initial assumptions while progressively adapting designs in response to observed ground and structural behaviour. Drawing on the work of Terzaghi and Peck, the method relies on the clear identification of critical observations and on having the means to act upon them in a safe and timely manner. Its effective implementation relies on well‐defined processes, clear lines of communication, and coordinated collaboration across all project stakeholders. This webinar demonstrates these principles through a series of case studies, illustrating how the OM has been applied in practice to manage risk and unlock value. The session also examines recent advances in monitoring technologies, data management, and real‐time back‐analysis. These developments are extending the application of the OM beyond construction control into longer‐term asset management and adaptive design.


BIODATA OF SPEAKER

Mr. HOCK LIONG LIEW

Hock Liong Liew is a Technical Director in Ground Engineering at Mott MacDonald, based in London, and the firm’s Global Practice Skill Lead for the Observational Method, Instrumentation, and Monitoring. A Chartered Civil Engineer with over 25 years of international geotechnical experience, he has worked across transportation, buildings, energy, and water infrastructure projects.

He is a leading practitioner and advocate of the Observational Method, with extensive experience in its planning and implementation on complex projects. He has authored and co-authored more than ten technical papers, regularly presents at international conferences, and serves on the ISSMGE Technical Committee on the Observational Method. He is also one of the lead authors of the forthcoming CIRIA guidance on the Observational Method, helping to shape modern industry best practice.