View source for Pre-Analysis Communication Best Practices

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[[Category:Modeling Communication]]
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== Purpose ==
This presents a framework for an engineer/modeler to communicate the process of hydrologic, hydraulic, seepage, and [[stability]] models to both a dam [[owner]] and regulatory agency. There are a variety of approaches and methodologies for these modeling efforts, and it is important to owners, consultants, and regulators that clear communication is integrated in the process. The purpose of this page is to guide communication among all interested parties prior to commencing a modeling effort.

== Levels of Pre-Analysis Communication ==


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The complexity and degree of pre-analysis communication will vary from project to project and exists on a spectrum as illustrated above. For simple modeling efforts, email correspondence or a brief proposal may be an adequate level of pre-analysis communication. For more complex or impactful efforts, all of these methods of communication may be needed to adequately plan the modeling effort. The following factors may influence the level of pre analysis communication on the spectrum:

*	'''Hazard classification''' or potential downstream consequences of the dam to be modeled

*	'''Modeling purpose''' (i.e., screening level study, [[rehabilitation]] design, [[Risk Assessment|risk assessment]], hazard reclassification, emergency planning)

*	'''Public interest''' or involvement in the project

*	'''Technical complexity''' of the analysis

*	'''Unknowns and data gaps''' in the analysis and potential for dam safety risks during data acquisition (e.g., bore holes through an embankment dam)

*	'''Level of previous experience''' with the dam, owner, and/or [[regulator]]

*	'''Importance of model''' in directing critical design decisions

*	'''Level of experience''' / validation of the analysis method in standard practice 

This spectrum should be considered when applying the following steps during the planning of future modeling efforts. Learn more about [[Pre-Modeling Communication: Developing a Model Work Plan | '''Developing Model Work Plans''']] including considerations for specific model applications (e.g., hydrologic, seepage, consequence estimation). 

== Steps of Pre-Analysis Communication ==
# [[Step 1 of Pre-Analysis Communication: Develop Project Understanding and Objectives | Develop Project Understanding and Objectives]]
# [[Step 2 of Pre-Analysis Communication: Develop Scope of Work | Develop Scope of Work]]
# [[Step 3 of Pre-Analysis Communication: Obtain Concurrence from Regulatory Agency | Obtain Concurrence from Regulatory Agency]]
# [[Step 4 of Pre-Analysis Communication: Proceed with Modeling and Keep Communication Channels Open | Proceed with Modeling and Keep Communication Channels Open]]

== Resources for Developing a Model Work Plan ==
A model work plan submittal should address an understanding of the model objectives, project constraints, and overall approach. Additional items that should be considered when developing this plan are summarized on this page: [[Pre-Modeling Communication: Developing a Model Work Plan]]. This includes considerations for specific model applications. 

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