How Big Things Get Done

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Discover the secrets to successfully planning and executing ambitious projects of any scale, from home renovations to space exploration, by the leading expert on megaprojects. While inspiring stories like the Empire State Building's rapid completion and Apple's iPod launch showcase triumphs, the reality is that most large visions often turn into costly failures. A staggering 92% of megaprojects exceed budgets or schedules, with California's high-speed rail project ballooning from $33 billion to $100 billion without fulfilling its promises. Even smaller endeavors, such as launching a business or organizing an event, frequently encounter setbacks. Bent Flyvbjerg, an Oxford professor recognized as the foremost authority on megaprojects, delves into the reasons behind these failures and outlines research-based principles for success. Key strategies include understanding your odds, planning slowly but acting swiftly, and starting with your end goal to identify necessary steps. He emphasizes the importance of building from small components, fostering teamwork, and mastering the unknowns that often derail projects. Flyvbjerg also highlights that the greatest risk often lies within ourselves. Through vivid examples—from the Sydney Opera House to Pixar films and a Brooklyn renovation gone wrong—this guide reveals how to achieve any ambitious project on time and within budget.