Phased Engineering Methodology

Cortex’s Phased Engineering Approach

Our phased approach is designed to provide the right level of engineering at the right time.

Structured Front-End Loading (FEL) for Capital Decision Making

Using a structured Front-End Loading (FEL) methodology to guide projects allows our team to establish technical clarity and protect capital before moving to the next stage of the project. This delivers clearer stakeholder alignment on scope, budget, and schedule and better risk management by identifying and mitigating risks early.

Clearly identified phases and decision points enhance collaboration and communication, resulting in improved quality through having a defined execution approach from the beginning.

FEL 1 — Feasibility & Project Purpose

We evaluate high-level technical feasibility, site constraints, utility capacity and potential integration challenges. Early conceptual thinking and preliminary assessments are used to identify major risks before additional resources are committed.

Typical outputs include:

  • Defined project purpose and objectives
  • High-level utility and infrastructure review
  • Initial major risk identification
  • Order-of-magnitude cost and schedule range
  • High level project scope document

FEL1 develops initial project information to allow clients to make more informed decisions regarding further capital allocations by better understanding project risks and potential return on investment 

FEL 2 — Conceptual Design & Option Evaluation

This phase evaluates different project options to best align with the purpose and objectives of the project. 

Process flow diagrams, preliminary layouts and early system definition are developed to clarify scope. Utility load lists, control narratives and equipment identification begin to take shape.

Typical outputs include:

  • Issue for Design Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs)
  • Issue for Review P&IDs
  • Equipment identification, sizing, and mass and energy balance reviews
  • Utility Requirements List 
  • Conceptual equipment layouts and integration concepts
  • Updated project budgets and schedules

FEL 2 narrows options and aligns scope with budget expectations.

FEL 3 — Project Definition

This phase defines and finalizes project scope, budgets, and schedules.  

Our team ensures all systems are aligned before execution begins. We use 3D modeling to confirm routing, constructability and equipment placement, as well as identify and procure long-lead items.

Typical outputs include:

  • Issue for Design P&IDs for process and utility systems
  • Equipment specifications, data sheets, and bid packages for long-lead equipment
  • Detailed layouts and integration modeling
  • Complete PHA and HAZOP analysis if required
  • Electrical area classification drawings panel concepts, and control systems architecture
  • Issue for Bid Packages developed from the 3D model with detailed BOMs to support accurate cost and installation estimates
    • Separate packages for Mechanical / Electrical / Civil / Structural
  • Detailed project budgets and schedules with construction defined
  • Construction planning inputs

FEL 3 prepares the project for execution while minimizing field rework.

FEL 4 — Project Execution

This phase develops the project packages required for equipment procurement, construction, and startup and commissioning.  

Typical outputs include:

  • Issue for Construction Packages (Mechanical / Electrical / Civil / Structural)
  • Define and procure all non long lead equipment
  • Construction support and field coordination with installation reviews against design
  • Process and equipment review and validation prior to startup
  • The same team that completes the design and engineering supports field activities to startup and commission all equipment.  

FEL 4 ensures alignment between design intent and operational performance.

Industries

Who This Service Supports

Phased Engineering supports teams and operations leaders evaluating modernization initiatives.

Testimonials

Why Clients Choose Cortex

I have worked with Cortex for about 15 years. They have done lots of 3D design work, including for an $11MM HDPE reactor debottleneck and a $30MM waste treatment plant. They bring a great skill set to these projects and are agile and able to adjust to changing conditions."
Principal Project Manager
Their use of the latest technology in producing these packages across multiple disciplines provides exacting details to reduce scope changes and field busts thus reducing the total installed costs of projects. The long-term relationship that we have developed with Cortex provides an experienced background that is influential in bringing project to a successful conclusion."
Project Manager
They provide timely updates, openly discuss challenges and options, and make it easy for stakeholders to understand.They proactively identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising system performance or reliability."
Project Engineer
Most recently, I had Cortex develop FEL2/3 estimates for six Turnaround projects (three MCC replacements and three piping/ structural projects). All of these projects were well within the error band comparedto when we developed estimates after detailed engineering. I have been pleased with the work that Cortex has performed for me over the years."
Principal Project Manager
Working with Cortex has been exceptional across every phase of the project. Their dedication to transparency, thorough scope development, and clear communication builds confidence from day one.They take the time to understand every operational requirement, clearly define deliverables, and lay out realistic expectations to minimize risk, prevent scope creep, and ensures everyone starts the project aligned."
Project Engineer
Cortex has a long history of being instrumental in developing both turnaround and non turnaround capital projects. We have used Cortex to develop competent IFC drawing packages and estimates from scope descriptions."
Project Manager
They have a strong understanding of our internal engineering standards. They consistently uphold internal specifications, industry best practices, and quality expectations in every aspect of design, programming, documentation, and implementation."
Project Engineer