The Geo-Impulse Working Group 'Geocommunication in Projects' worked on communication scenarios for geotechnical projects from 2009 to 2014 and also contributed to the development of Geonet.
Motivation
Risks and opportunities in geotechnical projects are always present. The only question is whether and how this is communicated clearly, proactively and regularly within the project and to the environment. 'Managing expectations', in other words, with the aim of realising construction projects more efficiently. An additional result is that the improved deployment of geotechnical engineers can increase their professional pride. This leads to greater attractiveness of the profession for young/new entrants.
Activities
The activities of the working group focused first on the communication skills of geotechnical engineers in projects, so that they speak understandable language and know and understand the position and interests of others. In addition, the working group looked at the consultant role of geotechnical engineers. This included, for example, improving the geotechnical engineer's position as an advisor during and before the construction process and stimulating public awareness around risks and opportunities of building in and on weak soils. Also, the geotechnical engineer as consultant can contribute to the political and social debate around the consideration of geotechnical risks.
Products and practice
The working group developed several products. For example, a guideline on geocommunication (pdf) was prepared and an environment scan was developed. Renewal of Geonet also fell under the remit. The working group contributed its expertise to three practical projects: the restructuring of the Noordwal/Veenkade (including a fully automatic car salvage yard) in The Hague, the Spoorzone Delft and the De Groene Loper project in which the A2 motorway will be routed in a tunnel under Maastricht.
In the media
One of the working group's objectives was to communicate more about geotechnical engineering to the general public, in order to create a basis for greater understanding. To this end, the working group contributed to:
- Public communication through Kennislink, the largest Dutch website on science and engineering. During the Geo-Impulse programme, some 40 articles on geotechnical engineering appeared on Kennislink.
- Development of the UAR Ondergronds, a mobile app that allows you to see what is in the soil.
- News and background stories on the website of the Centre for Underground Construction.
- An interactive book on the subsurface