Sandwich Panel Manufacturing Landscape in Ajman: An Expert Analysis

I. Introduction
Ajman, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has emerged as a significant industrial and commercial hub. Its strategic location and supportive business environment have fostered the growth of various manufacturing sectors, including the production of advanced building materials. This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the sandwich panel manufacturing landscape within Ajman, identifying key manufacturers, detailing their product offerings and capabilities, and examining the prevailing industry standards and market dynamics. The objective is to offer a clear and detailed overview for stakeholders seeking information on sandwich panel procurement and market trends in the region.

II. Overview of Ajman's Industrial Landscape

Ajman's Role in UAE's Industrial Sector

Ajman plays a vital role in the UAE's industrial sector, characterized by its well-developed industrial zones such as Al Jurf Industrial Area 1, Al Jurf Industrial Area 2, and the New Industrial Area. These areas host a wide array of manufacturing and trading companies, contributing significantly to the emirate's economic diversification and growth. The presence of the Ajman Free Zone, established in 1988, further enhances this industrial ecosystem by offering streamlined business setup processes, competitive packages, and strategic advantages for diverse businesses. This free zone, along with its proximity to Ajman Port and major international airports in Dubai and Sharjah, facilitates efficient trade and logistics, making Ajman an attractive destination for manufacturing and distribution within the Middle East. The emirate's industrial directories list a broad spectrum of activities, from abrasives and adhesives to heavy machinery and building materials, underscoring its robust manufacturing capabilities.  

Key Building Material Segments
The building materials sector in Ajman is diverse and comprehensive, catering to a wide range of construction needs. Key segments include the supply of essential raw materials such as steel, cement, and wood, alongside a variety of finished and semi-finished products. Companies in Ajman supply a broad spectrum of materials, including aluminum, glass, stone, and various composite materials like brick blocks and concrete blocks. Specialized products such as gypsum, insulation products, calcium silicate boards, cement fiber products, and roofing sheets are also readily available. The presence of major suppliers like Lumber World LLC, a leading global importer of wood and building materials with operations across the UAE, and AL-Omran Building Materials, offering over 3,500 materials from 50+ brands, highlights the depth and breadth of the market. This extensive availability of materials supports the robust construction sector, which utilizes wood, steel, concrete, and brick as foundational elements for durable structures. The comprehensive nature of Ajman's building materials market positions it as a critical supplier for both local and regional construction projects.  

III. Key Sandwich Panel Manufacturers in Ajman
Several prominent companies in Ajman specialize in the manufacturing and supply of sandwich panels, which are crucial for modern construction due to their insulation, structural integrity, and rapid installation benefits. The following entities have been identified as key players in this sector:

Ghosh Metal Industries LLC

Ghosh Metal Industries LLC is a significant manufacturer located in Al Jurf Industrial Area, Ajman, with a substantial production facility in Umm Al Quwain. The company can be reached at +971 6 7405730 or via email at parimal@ghoshgroups.com, and its website is  

http://www.ghoshgroups.com.  

Ghosh Metal Industries LLC is a direct manufacturer of sandwich panels, alongside other products such as roofing sheets, Z and C purlins, perforated sheets, and construction metal fencing. Their expertise extends to fabrication, including temporary construction site hoarding panel fencing, indicating a strong in-house production capability for metal-based components. The company's operations encompass a 30,000 sqft open factory, warehouse, and office in Ajman, complemented by a 50,000 sqft production facility in Umm Al Quwain, which underscores their capacity for large-scale manufacturing.  

While the company is a confirmed manufacturer, specific details regarding the core materials, precise thickness ranges, U-values, or fire ratings for their sandwich panels are not explicitly detailed in the available information. However, they are noted for offering a wide range of colors for their construction site fencing, suggesting a capability for varied finishes on their metal products, which may extend to sandwich panels. For comprehensive product specifications, direct engagement with Ghosh Metal Industries LLC is necessary.  

APT Metal Technical Services

APT Metal Technical Services is located in Al Nafoura Building, Al Rawdha, Ajman, with a P.O. Box of 6827. They can be contacted at +971 6 7498872 or +971 55 2067437, and their website is  

https://aptmetals.com/.  

APT Metal Technical Services is a designer, fabricator, and erector of pre-engineered steel buildings, hot-rolled structural steel, and various metal products, including sandwich panels. They explicitly offer sandwich panels with Polyurethane Foam (PUF), Polyisocyanurate (PIR), and Rockwool cores, designed for cost-effective system building and energy efficiency. Their product range also includes GI sheets, decking sheets, GRP skylight sheets, and steel/aluminum profile sheets, indicating a comprehensive metal fabrication and supply capability.  

The company's focus on pre-engineered steel buildings and its role as a fabricator strongly suggest that their sandwich panel offerings are either manufactured in-house or are a core component of their integrated building solutions. While they specify the core materials, detailed technical specifications such as precise R-values, fire ratings, or specific dimensions for their sandwich panels are not publicly provided, requiring direct inquiry for comprehensive information. This approach allows them to provide tailored solutions to meet dynamic customer needs, aligning with their stated strategy of delivering comprehensive solutions through continuous development and improvement.  

Mohammed Al Mandoos General Maintenance Contracting

Mohammed Al Mandoos General Maintenance Contracting is situated at Shed No: 003, Plot # 0362, Industrial Area 2, Southern Sector, Ajman. Their contact details include mobile number +971 55 1766516 and email mmk.gmcont@gmail.com, with their website being  

https://mandoosgroups.com/.  

This company is identified as a "Top Sandwich Panel Supplier" and "Best Aluminium Sandwich Panel Supplier" in Sharjah, extending its services to Ajman and other UAE emirates. Their service portfolio is extensive, encompassing fence manufacturing, portable cabins, car parking sheds, aluminum works, steel fabrication, and roof and wall cladding services. They are also recognized as a manufacturer of pre-engineered building (PEB) structures.  

The company's description as a "supplier" of sandwich panels and a "peb structure Manufacturer" suggests a comprehensive contracting and fabrication entity that utilizes or supplies sandwich panels as integral components of larger projects. While they are proficient in delivering complete building solutions, the available information does not explicitly confirm in-house manufacturing of the sandwich panels themselves (i.e., producing the core and facings from raw materials). Their strength lies in providing end-to-end solutions, potentially leveraging a network of specialized panel manufacturers. For detailed specifications on the types of sandwich panels, core materials, facing, thickness, or fire ratings, direct communication with Mohammed Al Mandoos General Maintenance Contracting is recommended.  

NMSS Metal Works Industry LLC

NMSS Metal Works Industry LLC is located near Lucky Roundabout, New Industrial Area, Ajman, with P.O. Box 4966. They can be reached at +971 6 7483537 or +971 50 9876913, and their email is info@nmss.ae, with their website being  

https://www.nmss.ae/ 

The company explicitly lists Roof & Wall Sandwich Panels as a core product, alongside decking sheets, roofing, Z and C purlins, and tile profile sheets. Their name, "Metal Works Industry," combined with the explicit mention of producing roofing and decking sheets, indicates manufacturing capabilities for metal-faced panels. Their sandwich panels are highlighted for their insulation properties, designed to protect buildings from extreme hot and cold ambient temperatures.  

NMSS Metal Works Industry LLC appears to be a specialized manufacturer or primary distributor of sandwich panels, focusing on insulated solutions. While their emphasis is on thermal performance, specific technical details such as precise core materials (beyond general insulation), facing types, exact thickness ranges, fire ratings, or U-values are not publicly detailed, necessitating direct contact for comprehensive specifications. Their focus on insulated panels positions them as a direct contender for projects prioritizing thermal performance and structural cladding.  

Arabian Source Manufacturing LLC

Arabian Source Manufacturing LLC is located near Safeer Hypermarket, Al Jurf, Ajman. They can be contacted at +971 6 7439699 or +971 55 9564315, and their website is  

https://arabiansource.ae  

This company manufactures Sandwich Panels, Roof Panels, and Profile Sheets. A key indicator of their manufacturing capability is the explicit mention of "installing new advanced production technology in the field of manufacturing insulated panels and sheet profiles". Established in 2006 as a subsidiary of Arabian Group of Companies, they also diversify into manufacturing condenser coils and water chillers, demonstrating a robust industrial manufacturing base that leverages similar material and production expertise.  

Arabian Source Manufacturing LLC is a verified manufacturer of sandwich panels, making them a primary target for those seeking direct producers. Their investment in advanced technology implies a focus on high-quality output and potentially a capacity for large-scale production. While they describe sandwich panels as a composite building material with two strong outer sheets and an insulating core, detailed specifications such as specific core materials, facing, thickness, fire ratings, or U-values are not explicitly available, requiring direct inquiry.  

Al Majed Metal Industry LLC
Al Majed Metal Industry LLC is located in New Industrial Area 2, Ajman, with P.O. Box 22447. They can be reached at +971 6 7431044 or +971 50 1618921, and their email is majedmi@eim.ae. Their brochure, accessible via Yellow Pages UAE, provides further details.  

This company is a direct manufacturer of Aluminium Sandwich Panels, PU Sandwich Panels, general Sandwich Panels, Profile Sheet Manufacturers, and Roof Sandwich Panels. Their brochure explicitly states their establishment in 2010 in Ajman as a "Metal profile Sheet & Sandwich Panel manufacturing company". This is a clear confirmation of their manufacturing capability.  

Al Majed Metal Industry LLC emphasizes its use of "hi-tech procedures in its production techniques that meets the high international quality standards," indicating a strong commitment to quality control and adherence to industry best practices. Their explicit commitment to high-quality production, combined with their range of panel types (Aluminium and PU), positions them as a reliable source for projects demanding certified and high-performance sandwich panels. While they produce these panels, detailed specifications such as precise U-values, specific fire ratings, exact dimensions, or core densities are not provided in the readily available information, necessitating direct communication for comprehensive data.  

Bustan Al Arab Metal Works LLC

Bustan Al Arab Metal Works LLC is located in Industrial Area 2, Ajman. They can be contacted at +971 6 5259341 or +971 50 1600294, with emails Sales@bustanalarab.com and bustanalarab2023@gamil.com, and their website is  

https://bustanalarab.com/   

This company offers various types of sandwich panels, including Sandwich Wall Panels, Tiles Sandwich Panels, and Sandwich Roof Panels, along with general Sandwich Panel products. They are described as a "leading provider of exceptional metal fabrication solutions". Their stated values include "Quality Craftsmanship," "Customization," "Customer Focus," "Competitive Pricing," "Reliability," and "Innovative Solutions".  

Bustan Al Arab Metal Works LLC's explicit listing of various sandwich panel types and their self-description as a metal fabrication solutions provider strongly suggest that their sandwich panel production is an extension of their core metalworking capabilities. This implies they are likely manufacturing the metal facings and assembling the panels in-house. Their emphasis on customization and innovation indicates a capacity to meet specific project requirements, potentially offering tailored panel designs or finishes. However, specific technical specifications for their sandwich panels, such as material composition, insulation R-values, dimensions, or fire ratings, are not detailed in the provided information, requiring direct inquiry for precise data.  

Technical Metalic Profiles Factory LLC (TMPF)
Technical Metalic Profiles Factory LLC (TMPF) is located in the New Industrial Area, Ajman, with P.O. Box 6559. They can be reached at +971 6 748 2220 or via email at info@tmpf.ae, and their website is  

https://www.tmpf.ae/   

TMPF supplies Sandwich Panels, Corrugated Sheets, and Z and C Purlins, positioning themselves as "Your One Source for Single Skin Sheets, Insulated & Wall Panels, Z & C Purlins & Accessories Complete Solutions". TMPF is an offshoot of Al Alaa Contracting & Metal Construction LLC, bringing 25 years of construction industry experience. They are active in "Aluminium rolling, profile, construction and packaging materials," which directly relates to the production of metal facings for sandwich panels.  

The company's identification as a "Factory" supplying "Insulated & Wall Panels" confirms their manufacturing status. Their origin from a large contracting company suggests a deep understanding of construction needs and established processes. They emphasize providing "TOP QUALITY Materials" and being a "dynamic growing company with dedicated team, right solutions, high quality, customer satisfaction and great value". While they offer insulated and wall panels, detailed specifications such as core materials, facing, thickness, fire ratings, or U-values are not explicitly available, necessitating direct contact for comprehensive information. Their focus on "complete solutions" makes them a comprehensive supplier for various metal and insulated panel needs.
 

Table 1: Key Sandwich Panel Manufacturers in Ajman – Overview and Contact Information


Company Name

Location (Industrial Area)

Primary Contact Number

Email (if available)

Website

Primary Sandwich Panel Types Offered

Ghosh Metal Industries LLC

Al Jurf Industrial Area

+971 6 7405730

parimal@ghoshgroups.com

http://www.ghoshgroups.com

Roofing Sheet, Sandwich Panel

APT Metal Technical Services

Al Rawdha

+971 6 7498872

aptmetals@gmail.com

https://aptmetals.com/

PUF, PIR, Rockwool Sandwich Panels

Mohammed Al Mandoos General Maint. Cont.

Industrial Area 2, Southern Sector

+971 55 1766516

mmk.gmcont@gmail.com

https://mandoosgroups.com/

Aluminium Sandwich Panel, General Sandwich Panels

NMSS Metal Works Industry LLC

New Industrial Area

+971 6 7483537

info@nmss.ae

https://www.nmss.ae/

Roof & Wall Sandwich Panels

Arabian Source Manufacturing LLC

Al Jurf

+971 6 7439699

Not specified

https://arabiansource.ae/

Sandwich Panels, Roof Panels

Al Majed Metal Industry LLC

New Indl Area 2

+971 6 7431044

majedmi@eim.ae

Not explicitly stated in snippets

Aluminium Sandwich Panel, PU Sandwich Panel, Roof Sandwich Panels

Bustan Al Arab Metal Works LLC

Industrial Area 2

+971 6 5259341

Sales@bustanalarab.com

https://bustanalarab.com/

Sandwich Wall Panels, Tiles Sandwich Panels, Sandwich Roof Panels

Technical Metalic Profiles Factory LLC

New Industrial Area

+971 6 7482220

info@tmpf.ae

https://www.tmpf.ae/

Insulated & Wall Panels, Sandwich Panels

 
Table 2: Detailed Product Specifications by Manufacturer
Company Name

Core Material Types

Facing Materials

Thickness Range (mm)

U-Value (W/m²K) (if available)

Fire Rating/Class (if available)

Other Noteworthy Specifications

Ghosh Metal Industries LLC 

Offers construction site fencing with various colors (e.g., RAL 9002 Off-White, RAL 1001 Beige, RAL 5012 Light Blue, RAL 5010 Dark Blue, RAL 5002 EMMAR Blue, RAL 7046 Dark Grey)  

APT Metal Technical Services

PUF, PIR, Rockwool  

Metal or flexible facings   

Designed for cost-effective system building and energy efficiency  

Mohammed Al Mandoos General Maint. Cont.

 Aluminium (for Aluminium Sandwich Panels)   

Offers services as "Top Sandwich Panel Suppliers in Sharjah" and "Best Aluminium Sandwich Panel Suppliers"  

NMSS Metal Works Industry LLC 

Designed to protect buildings from extreme hot and cold ambient temperatures due to insulation properties  

Arabian Source Manufacturing LLC

Insulating core (general)  

Two strong outer sheets (general)   

Utilizes new advanced production technology for insulated panels  

Al Majed Metal Industry LLC

PU (for PU Sandwich Panel)  

Aluminium (for Aluminium Sandwich Panel)   

Uses hi-tech procedures meeting high international quality standards  

Bustan Al Arab Metal Works LLC 

Emphasizes quality craftsmanship, customization, and innovative solutions  

Technical Metalic Profiles Factory LLC 

Positions itself as a "One Source" for insulated panels and accessories  

IV. Industry Standards and Market Dynamics

Relevant Building Material Standards for Sandwich Panels
The construction industry, particularly in a rapidly developing market like the UAE, places significant emphasis on adherence to stringent building material standards to ensure safety, quality, and performance. For sandwich panels, several key standards and certifications are highly relevant. The Dubai Civil Defense (DCD) Approval is a critical local standard for sandwich panels used in construction across Dubai and the broader UAE, specifically emphasizing fire resistance and overall building safety. This local approval is a fundamental requirement for compliance with regional safety regulations.  

Beyond local mandates, international quality and environmental certifications play a crucial role. ISO 9001:2015, a quality management system standard, is an important indicator of a manufacturer's commitment to consistent quality processes, as seen with Isowall and SAB. Similarly, ISO 14001:2015, an environmental management system standard, demonstrates a commitment to managing environmental impacts and promoting sustainable practices, also noted for Isowall and SAB.  

Product performance and testing standards are equally vital. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) provides various standards for evaluating specific mechanical properties of sandwich panels. These include ASTM C297 for tensile testing, ASTM C271 for density, ASTM C365 for compressive strength, ASTM C393 for flexural testing, ASTM C481 for laboratory aging, ASTM E72 for strength tests, and ASTM E84 for surface burning characteristics. Adherence to these standards ensures predictable performance under various conditions, which is crucial for structural integrity and safety.  

Furthermore, CE Marking, in accordance with the European standard EN 14509, is a significant certification for insulated panels. This standard, mandatory in the UK since 2013, requires a 'Declaration of Performance' that covers essential characteristics such as product identification, mechanical properties (tensile, shear, compressive strength, bending resistance), reaction to fire, fire resistance, external fire performance, and thermal transmittance (U-value). Compliance with EN 14509 indicates that panels meet rigorous European performance and safety criteria, making them suitable for international projects and demonstrating a high level of product quality.  

The consistent emphasis on DCD Approval, ISO certifications, and detailed ASTM and CE Marking standards for sandwich panels underscores a fundamental market dynamic. In a rapidly developing construction market like the UAE, where large-scale and high-value projects are common, regulatory compliance and demonstrated product performance are not merely optional but are fundamental requirements for market entry and competitive differentiation. These standards directly address critical concerns such as structural integrity, fire safety, and energy efficiency, which are paramount in the region. For buyers, prioritizing manufacturers who visibly adhere to and certify their products against these standards is crucial for de-risking projects, ensuring compliance with local building codes, and guaranteeing long-term performance. For manufacturers, investing in these certifications is a strategic necessity to gain market trust, expand market reach (both domestically and internationally), and command premium pricing. This trend signifies a maturing market where quality and safety are increasingly non-negotiable.

Advantages of Sandwich Panels in the Ajman/UAE Climate
Sandwich panels offer several distinct advantages that make them particularly well-suited for construction in the challenging climate of Ajman and the broader UAE.

A primary benefit is their exceptional thermal insulation. This property is crucial for combating the extreme heat prevalent in the UAE, as panels with Polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam cores, for instance, offer very low thermal conductivity (λ = 0.023 W/m²K). Such high thermal performance significantly reduces energy consumption for cooling and lowers operational costs for buildings, directly contributing to energy efficiency. U-values, which measure thermal transmittance, are a key metric for evaluating this performance, and well-designed sandwich panels can achieve excellent U-values.  

High fire resistance is another critical advantage, essential for building safety, particularly in industrial and commercial applications. Some sandwich panel varieties are engineered to offer resistance to fire at temperatures exceeding 1000°C, and Civil Defence Approved Fire-Resistant Polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam is a notable core material in this regard.  

The rapid installation and cost-effectiveness of sandwich panels are also highly valued. Their prefabricated nature allows for significantly faster construction times compared to traditional methods, leading to reduced labor costs, quicker project completion, and overall cost savings. This efficiency is a major driver in a market experiencing rapid development.  

Furthermore, these panels are designed for durability and weather protection, engineered to withstand harsh climatic conditions. They provide complete air and water tightness, ensuring long-term protection against precipitation, snow, and dampness, which is vital in a region with varying weather patterns. Properly selected core materials can also provide  

excellent sound absorption, offering beneficial noise insulation for reducing external noise intrusion or controlling industrial noise propagation within a building.  

Market Trends and Applications in Industrial, Commercial, and Residential Projects
The versatility of sandwich panels has led to their extensive utilization across diverse construction sectors in the UAE. They are widely applied in industrial buildings such as warehouses, factories, and petrochemical facilities, as well as in commercial structures like shopping malls and office spaces. Specialized applications also include cold storage units, clean rooms, and agricultural facilities, where precise temperature control and insulation are paramount. Increasingly, sandwich panels are being adopted in  

residential structures, including villas and prefabricated houses, reflecting a broader shift in construction methodologies.  

A significant market trend observed in the UAE is the growing interest in prefabrication and modular construction. The demand for "prefabricated houses" and "modular prefab houses" highlights a movement towards off-site construction methods, where sandwich panels are a fundamental component due to their ease of assembly and inherent insulation properties. This approach enables faster project delivery and greater construction efficiency.  

There is also a discernible emphasis on sustainability within the market. Mentions of recyclable building materials and processes indicate a shift towards more environmentally friendly construction solutions, aligning with global green building initiatives. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on producing panels that contribute to energy efficiency and a reduced ecological footprint.  

The strong demand for sandwich panels in Ajman and the wider UAE is fundamentally driven by a confluence of climatic challenges, regulatory mandates, and compelling economic benefits. The extreme heat necessitates superior thermal insulation for energy efficiency. Rapid urban and industrial development demands quick construction methods. Stringent safety regulations, exemplified by DCD approval, make fire resistance a critical factor. The wide range of applications demonstrates their adaptability to the diverse construction needs of the region. Manufacturers who can effectively deliver on these core requirements—high thermal performance, certified fire resistance, and efficient production for rapid installation—are strategically well-positioned for sustained growth. The accelerating trend towards prefabrication and modular construction further solidifies the long-term market for these versatile panels.

V. Conclusion and Strategic Recommendations
Summary of Ajman's Sandwich Panel Manufacturing Capabilities
Ajman has solidified its position as a dynamic center for sandwich panel manufacturing and supply within the UAE. Operations are primarily concentrated in its well-developed industrial zones, which provide the necessary infrastructure and logistical advantages. The analysis identifies several key manufacturers, including Ghosh Metal Industries LLC, APT Metal Technical Services, NMSS Metal Works Industry LLC, Arabian Source Manufacturing LLC, Al Majed Metal Industry LLC, and Bustan Al Arab Metal Works LLC. Technical Metalic Profiles Factory LLC also stands out as a significant producer in the region. These companies collectively offer a diverse range of panel types, featuring various core materials such as Polyurethane (PUF/PUR), Polyisocyanurate (PIR), and Rockwool, often combined with metal facings, including Aluminium. Many of these manufacturers also provide integrated solutions, leveraging their foundational expertise in metal fabrication and broader construction services to deliver comprehensive project support.

Recommendations for Engaging with Suppliers and Future Considerations
For entities seeking to procure sandwich panels in Ajman, several strategic recommendations are pertinent:

Prioritize Direct Inquiry for Granular Specifications: A consistent observation from the available information is that while companies are identified as sandwich panel suppliers or manufacturers, detailed technical specifications (e.g., precise U-values, specific fire ratings, exact dimensions, comprehensive material compositions) are frequently not publicly available. This indicates that manufacturers often prefer to share granular, project-specific data directly with potential clients during the sales or inquiry phase. Therefore, direct engagement with manufacturers is paramount for obtaining the precise technical data required to ensure that the selected panels perfectly match project-specific requirements and performance criteria. This direct communication also allows for tailored solutions and negotiation of terms.  

Verify Certifications and Compliance: For critical infrastructure and high-performance buildings, it is essential to prioritize manufacturers who can demonstrate adherence to relevant international standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ASTM, CE Marking/EN 14509) and local regulatory approvals, such as Dubai Civil Defense (DCD) approval. This verification process is crucial for ensuring product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance, thereby mitigating project risks.  

Evaluate Integrated Service Offerings: For large-scale or complex construction projects, considering manufacturers or suppliers that offer comprehensive, integrated solutions can be highly beneficial. These may include design support, custom fabrication, and professional installation services. Such end-to-end capabilities can significantly streamline project execution, reduce coordination complexities, and enhance overall efficiency by providing a single point of contact for multiple project phases.

Assess Sustainability Credentials: As the global construction industry increasingly focuses on environmental responsibility, it is advisable to inquire about manufacturers' commitment to sustainability. This includes exploring options for panels made from recycled or renewable materials, their energy-efficient properties, and their potential contribution to green building certifications. Partnering with suppliers who prioritize sustainability can align projects with broader environmental goals and potentially offer long-term operational cost savings.

Foster Long-term Partnerships: Given the specialized nature and critical role of sandwich panels in modern construction, establishing long-term relationships with reliable and reputable manufacturers can ensure consistent product quality, dependable supply chains, and access to ongoing technical support and innovation. These partnerships can lead to more efficient procurement processes and better project outcomes over time.