LEVERAGING PLANNING STRATEGIES FOR PRIORITIZING THE MOST VIABLE PROJECTS TO MAXIMIZE INVESTMENT RETURNS

Abstract

Maximizing investment returns and overall project benefitsthrough strategic project prioritization was crucial in programs aimed at enhancing the sustainability of building infrastructures. This necessity became particularly evident when implementing a revolving-fund approach, utilizing savings from initial projects for subsequent improvements. The success of such an approach heavily relied on the meticulous prioritization of projects. However, project prioritization during the planning phase was complicated due to competing performance metrics and resource constraints. This study evaluated the impact of various project prioritization strategies on the performance of sustainability programs employing a revolving fund model. The research utilized system dynamics modeling, a novel decision analysis tool that captured the complex interactions within sustainability improvement programs. The methodology was developed and calibrated using a case study of a campus sustainability improvement program at Texas A&M University. The study employed five common project prioritization strategies and assessed their effects on program performance metrics—such as investment returns, energy savings, and environmental impact—across varying levels of initial investment. Findings from the Texas A&M University case study suggested that prioritizing projects based on a decreasing benefit/cost ratio proved to be the most effective strategy. This research underscored the significance of system dynamics modeling in helping sustainability program managers make informed decisions, thereby facilitating financially and environmentally successful program implementations focused on maximizing investment returns.