What is NETLIPSE?

NETLIPSE is a Network for the dissemination of knowledge on the management and organisation of Large Infrastructure Projects in Europe.

NETLIPSE started as a two year research programme in the Sixth European Framework Programme (FP6), which ran from May 2006 to May 2008. It initiated a network with member states, universities, research institutes, project delivery organisations and private consultancy companies.

The main goal was to exchange knowledge on the management and organisation of  Large Infrastructure Projects (LIPs). 15 Large Infrastructure Projects throughout Europe were researched, culminating in the publication of a book on best practices and lessons learnt, titled:

Managing Large Infrastructure Projects
Research on Best Practices and Lessons Learnt in Large Infrastructure Projects in Europe

Order the book here.

After completion of the research programme in May 2008, the European Commission TEN-T Executive Agency decided to continue and expand the NETLIPSE initiative (June 2008 - December 2010). Besides continuing the networking activities, also by supporting the development of the 'Infrastructure Project Assessment Tool' (IPAT) and training programmes.

A Trans European Transport Network

The European Union addressed the need for a Trans European Transport Network (TEN-T) in a White Paper: Time to Decide published in 2001. The European Union has already invested billions in the construction of several Large Infrastructure Projects (LIPs) to help create the TEN-T. This work continues but with even greater emphasis on value for money.

The organisation responsible for funding and delivering such significant investments may have limited opportunities for both forecasting and monitoring the effectiveness of these projects. Past experiences have taught that there is a real risk of delays and cost overruns, with sometimes inexperience in the management of stakeholders, both on a (inter)national and local level. Knowledge exchange between Large Infrastructure Projects is scarce.

NETLIPSE is co-financed by the European Union's TEN-T programme through the Trans-European Transport Network Executive Agency (TEN-T EA).