PROMPT SET: Learn How to Conduct a Blue Team Review, AKA Analyze the Strength of a Win Theme

find the win theme steps in the paragraph

Read: "We plan to investigate the possibility of adding a Chicago-left on two of the affected intersections. This will provide improved safety for motorists. We implemented this solution on a suburban and rural freeway system in Arizona. The result was a 50% increase in traffic capacity and a 69% reduction in congestion complaints on the county website." In this paragraph, which of the 10 Steps to a Win Theme steps are represented?

find the win theme steps in the paragraph 2

"We will employ an asset triage system developed by our subject matter expert, Nadia Rostova, P.Eng. This application was developed for departments like Highways that must stretch modest resources for upgrading a widespread transportation network experiencing rapidly deteriorating structures and roads." Which steps in the win theme process are shown here?

find the win theme steps in the paragraph 3

"The proposed study area covers approximately 270 km² of southern Hickory River floodplain. Traffic in the area accommodates the movement of vehicles on the TransCanada Highway around the perimeter of the City of Reddington, but not without times of extreme congestion. In the words of John Smith, your assigned project director during our May 14 meeting, the interchanges in the area have been over-designed, meaning future work might contain unnecessary complexities. Usage of the routes in the area will steadily increase in the next 10 to 20 years, making it necessary to assess need for expanding traffic capacity and improving safety." Which win theme steps are shown?

find the win theme steps in the paragraph 4

"As it has been for the past two decades, budget funds for the types of improvements needed in this area accommodate only the most urgent upgrades. The Highways Department must be equipped to assign priority to the most impactful works first, while providing for the remaining works on a more distant horizon. Safety is also a concern on this network. The six intersections in the study area have experienced 12 motor vehicle-related fatalities in the past two years. Poor sight lines, difficult geometries, and adverse weather conditions have been blamed." Identify the steps.

find the win theme steps in the paragraph 5

"This study will examine ways to increase movement of traffic in the area to meet growing demand, including a proposed new by-pass south of Reddington. This project requires a team with expertise in traffic design in centers of comparable size - a team that can bring the benefit of lessons learned from other growing Canadian and American cities. This will enable the Department of Highways to implement best practices in traffic and interchange design on the route and remain compliant with TAC regulatory standards." Identify the steps.

find the win theme steps in the paragraph 6

"Our proposal includes a five-phase stakeholder consultation framework, developed specifically for large-scale transportation projects. In our most recent application of this framework on the Northvale Highway Expansion, we gathered formal feedback from 89% of identified stakeholder groups within the first 60 days of project initiation. Incorporating this feedback early allowed us to revise design plans proactively, reducing public complaints by 74% compared to similar projects without structured early consultation. We believe this structured approach will mitigate mid-project delays and build strong community support for the proposed improvements in Reddington." Identify the steps.

find the win theme steps in the paragraph 7

"On the recent Southridge Bypass project, we conducted a community engagement program similar to what we propose here. This led to a 72% reduction in construction-related complaints and an 18% improvement in project timeline adherence compared to baseline projections. Additionally, post-project surveys indicated a 91% satisfaction rate among local businesses and residents. These results demonstrate the impact of early consultation and efficient design revision on project outcomes—and are directly applicable to the challenges facing the Hickory River project." Identify the steps.

find the win theme steps in the paragraph 8

"Based on our discussions with your engineering review committee on April 5, we understand that minimizing disruption to weekday morning commuters is a top priority. To address this, we propose night and weekend-only lane closures. A similar approach was used on the Riverview Interchange Rebuild, where we reduced weekday congestion impacts by 82% and received positive feedback from 94% of surveyed daily commuters. We will also launch a public notification campaign, using SMS alerts and real-time signage, to ensure that drivers remain informed of changes." Identify the steps.

find the win theme steps in the paragraph 9

"One critical success factor for this project is maintaining continuous access for emergency services during construction. Our team recently developed a phased construction plan for the Western Prairie Corridor project that guaranteed uninterrupted emergency access across eight construction zones simultaneously. We coordinated with local police, fire, and ambulance services to establish alternate routes and issued updated access maps every two weeks. As a result, no emergency response delays were recorded throughout the 22-month project. We will implement a similar system here to ensure public safety remains uncompromised." Identify the steps.

spot the weakness 1

"Our team has extensive experience working on transportation projects of all sizes. We are confident that our knowledge and skills will allow us to successfully complete the Reddington Highway Improvements Project to your satisfaction." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

spot the weakness 2

"We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality engineering solutions. Our team has a proven track record of excellence and is committed to ensuring this project will meet all necessary standards." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

spot the weakness 3

"With our industry-leading methodologies, we can manage complex transportation projects effectively and efficiently. Our innovative approaches have been recognized across the sector for their excellence." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

spot the weakness 4

"We bring a strong history of completing projects on time and on budget. Our ability to navigate project challenges will ensure that the Reddington corridor receives the upgrades it needs." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

spot the weakness 5

"Our engineering team is well-versed in all aspects of highway planning, design, and construction. We are excited to bring our skills to support your department’s goals for the Reddington area." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

spot the weakness 6

"We apply best practices in accordance with applicable regulations to deliver high-quality outcomes." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

spot the weakness 7

"Our firm has been recognized multiple times for outstanding work in the transportation sector. We understand the importance of delivering quality results and maintaining strong client relationships." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

spot the weakness 8

"We utilize a collaborative approach to project delivery that emphasizes teamwork, communication, and stakeholder engagement. Our approach has proven effective on a variety of projects throughout the region." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

spot the weakness 9

"Our team is composed of highly skilled professionals who are leaders in their fields. We are dedicated to excellence and look forward to bringing our expertise to the Reddington Highway Improvements." Record in your notes why you think this is a weak win theme.

wrapping up the prompt set

After completing this prompt set, take a few minutes to reflect. What did strong win theme paragraphs do that the weak ones did not? What specific details made the good paragraphs more convincing? Why is it important to back up claims with examples, numbers, and real-world results? Record your notes below. You will use these reflections to improve your own proposal writing in future exercises.

test your mettle

"Based on our discussions with your engineering review committee on April 5, we understand that minimizing disruption to weekday morning commuters is a priority. Accordingly, we propose night and weekend lane closures only, with a dedicated public notification campaign to keep drivers informed." Is this one weak or strong? Why?