January 2024 - Page 3 of 3 - Elevate Constructionist

What It’s Like to Be a Construction Manager: Navigating Frustrations, Rewards, and Success

Posted on January 9, 2024January 9, 2024 by admin

Read 7 min

If you’re considering a career as a construction manager or currently in the role, you might be curious about the highs and lows that come with it. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the challenges, rewards, and strategies to stay ahead in this fast-paced and demanding position.

The Frustrations: What Getting Behind on a Project Feels Like being a construction manager isn’t always smooth sailing. When projects fall behind, the weight of responsibilities can feel overwhelming.

Here’s a glimpse into the frustrations you might encounter:

Overwhelming Load: The feeling that the project’s demands are too much to bear.
Unsatisfied Owners: Struggling to make the project owner happy, regardless of your efforts.
Constant Reaction Mode: Always playing catch-up, responding to emergencies and feeling behind the curve.
Victim Mentality: Feeling chained to emails, communications, and tools, rather than in control of them.
Work-Life Imbalance: Long hours and sacrificing family time due to the pressure of catching up.

The Rewards: What Staying Ahead of a Project Feels Like on the flip side, when you manage to stay ahead, the rewards are significant:

Time for Planning: Having ample time to plan and prepare for the project, avoiding last-minute surprises.
Organized Team: A well-organized team and plan, allowing for effective communication with clients and owners.
Stability: Feeling stable even when emergencies occur, thanks to a smoothly running project.
Controlled Communications: Using emails and communication tools strategically, rather than being a slave to them.
Work-Life Balance: Spending quality time with the project team, building a positive work environment, and achieving a balance between work and family life.
Strategies for Success: Three Key Methods

To transition from frustration to rewards, construction managers can implement three key strategies:

Importance of Planning: Allocate sufficient time for project planning—about one-third of the overall project duration. Projects don’t go wrong; they start wrong. Planning is crucial for success.
Continuous Training: Invest in training regularly to stay updated with industry advancements and enhance problem-solving skills. Aim for at least 80 hours of training per year.
Using Lean Systems: Embrace lean construction principles, such as tact planning, last planner, and scrum. Learn from resources like “This is Lean” by Nicholas Modig and Par Olstrom and “The Goal” by Eli Goldratt.

Key Experiences of a Successful Construction Manager
When you implement these strategies, you’ll notice significant changes in your experience as a construction manager:

Feeling Like a General: Embracing a leadership role, planning effectively, and conquering challenges with passion.
Project Team as Family: Developing a strong bond with your project team, feeling like a second family.
Creative Control: Enjoying the ability to create and shape your project environment, much like playing Minecraft.
Constant Challenge: Finding fulfillment in the constant challenges, making work interesting and dynamic.
Pride in Achievements: Being proud of the people and structures you’ve built, leaving a lasting impact.
Learn More with Additional Resources

For further insights and a visual representation of these concepts, check out the [linked blog post](insert link here). Whether you’re a seasoned construction manager or aspiring to enter the field, these strategies and experiences can guide you toward a fulfilling and successful career in construction management. If you have any questions or need additional resources, feel free to comment below for personalized guidance. Here’s to mastering the art of construction management and enjoying a rewarding career!

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here)
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here)
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
–The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

Winning with Stakeholders in Construction: A Guide to Success

Posted on January 3, 2024January 3, 2024 by admin

Read 7 min

Introduction

In the world of construction, success isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about building relationships. The key players in any construction project are known as stakeholders. In this blog post, we’ll explore who these stakeholders are, their importance, and how winning them over can lead to project success.

What Are Stakeholders in Construction?
Stakeholders in construction refer to individuals, groups, or entities with an interest or concern in the project. They can influence or be influenced by the project’s outcomes, and their involvement is often crucial to project success. Stakeholders in construction may include:

Owners
Contractors
Architects and Designers
Engineers
Regulatory Authorities
Financiers and Investors
End Users
Local Community
The Importance of Maintaining Good Relationships in Construction

Before delving into the specifics of each stakeholder group, it’s essential to highlight the significance of building and maintaining strong relationships throughout a construction project. In the book “How Big Things Get Done,” it is emphasized that making friends along the way is a key recommendation for project success. A negative relationship with just one stakeholder can lead to disastrous consequences, affecting both the timeline and budget of a project.

Stakeholders in Construction: Understanding Each Group

1.⁠ ⁠Owners
Owners hold the primary interest in the project’s success and provide the necessary resources and funds for construction. Building a close and collaborative relationship with owners is crucial for project managers.

2.⁠ ⁠Contractors
Contractors are responsible for executing activities on the construction site. This includes both general contractors and subcontractors. Effective communication and collaboration with contractors are essential for smooth project execution.

3.⁠ ⁠Architects and Designers
Architects and designers play a vital role in designing the project and creating contract documents. Ensuring their designs are implemented throughout construction requires a close partnership.

4.⁠ ⁠Engineers
Engineers provide specialized expertise in various disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or structural. Their contribution to the technical aspects of the project is invaluable.

5.⁠ ⁠Regulatory Authorities
Regulatory authorities enforce building codes, zoning regulations, and other legal requirements. Winning them over requires an intentional effort to understand and meet their expectations.

6.⁠ ⁠Financiers and Investors
Financiers and investors provide financial support for the project. Attention to the outward-facing aspects, such as marketing and project appearance, is crucial when dealing with financiers and investors.

7.⁠ ⁠End Users
End users are the individuals who will occupy or maintain the construction facility. Understanding their specific requirements and expectations is vital for project success.

8.⁠ ⁠Local Community
The local community, including residents and businesses near the project, may be impacted. Engaging with the local community and addressing their concerns is essential for positive project outcomes.

Tips to Manage Different Stakeholders in Construction

To successfully manage relationships with diverse stakeholders, consider the following tips and tricks:

Treat All Stakeholders Like Customers: See the project from their perspective and care about what matters to them.

Perform a Stakeholder Kickoff: Align expectations, goals, and create a sense of partnership from the beginning.

Communicate Throughout: Regular communication, including newsletters and updates, keeps stakeholders informed and engaged.

Celebrate Wins with the Entire Group: Acknowledge achievements and milestones, fostering a positive project environment.

Connect Throughout: Regularly reach out to stakeholders, understanding their needs and ensuring continuous collaboration.

By incorporating these tips into your project management strategy, you’ll not only manage stakeholders effectively but also win friends and advocates along the way. Remember, construction success is built on relationships, one stakeholder at a time.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

Who Is Responsible For Safety On A Construction Site?

Posted on January 3, 2024October 18, 2024 by admin

Read 7 min

Introduction:

In this Blog Post, we delve into the crucial topic of responsibility for safety on a construction site. The significance of this extends beyond the immediate project participants to impact their families as well. Join me as we explore the essential elements of safety and understand that it is more than a task; it is a mindset that shapes our actions and decisions.

Defining Safety:

To set the stage, let’s address the fundamental question: What is safety? While most viewers likely have a broad understanding, let me articulate it in my own words. Safety, at its core, ensures that individuals return home in the same condition they arrived at work. It embodies a commitment to shaping the environment to safeguard lives.

Safety as a Value:

Safety is not merely a priority that can change; it must be ingrained as a core value. I emphasizes that safety can be both a priority and a value, but it must, above all, be a value. This distinction sets the tone for individuals and companies to view safety not just as a fleeting concern but as an unwavering commitment.

Prioritizing Safety:

While cost, schedule, production, quality, and safety are all deemed equal in construction, the video passionately argues that safety must take precedence. The narrative underscores that, regardless of other challenges or constraints, ensuring people’s safety is the ultimate victory for any construction project.

Ultimate Responsibility – The Superintendent:

I takes a bold stance on the ultimate responsibility for safety, asserting that it lies with the superintendent. Unlike other responsibilities that can be delegated, safety is non-negotiable for a superintendent. The argument is passionately backed by the assertion that anything unsafe happening on a project is a result of the superintendent’s decision or tolerance.

Practical Responsibility – Every Individual:

Practically, the responsibility for safety extends to every individual on the project site. While the superintendent holds the ultimate responsibility, the video stresses that each person, from workers to supervisory staff, vendors, and more, must feel responsible for their own safety. This practical approach aims to foster a culture where everyone actively contributes to maintaining a safe environment.

Engagement of All Parties:

Safety is not solely the concern of the superintendent or safety professionals; it is a collective effort. Engaging everyone, including vendors, builders, foremen, workers, and even office staff, is vital to creating a comprehensive safety culture.

The Role of Safety Professionals:

A compelling analogy is drawn between safety professionals and a moving walkway. Just as standing on a moving walkway hinders progress, relying solely on safety professionals without maintaining individual responsibility slows down safety efforts. The key takeaway is that safety professionals are there to enhance, not replace, the collective commitment to safety.

Leadership’s Impact on Safety:

Leaders need to prioritize safety, actively participate in safety measures, and ensure that safety is the foremost concern on the project. A call to action is made for leaders to set an unwavering example.

Conclusion:

Safety is not a mere checklist of tasks; it is a mindset that shapes actions, decisions, and the overall culture of a construction site. As individuals and leaders, embracing safety as a value and a commitment ensures not only project success but, more importantly, the well-being of everyone involved. It’s time to elevate safety from a priority to a deeply ingrained value.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

What Is The Role of A Superintendent In Construction?

Posted on January 3, 2024October 18, 2024 by admin

Read 7 min

Introduction:

In this Blog, we’re going to uncover the secrets behind the role of a superintendent in construction. Trust me, this is my jam, and by the end of this ride, you’ll be equipped with the keys to success. So why is understanding the superintendent’s role so important? Because, my friend, it’s the game-changer for a seamless construction experience. Stick with me, and you’ll discover the superpowers that make a superintendent shine.

Seeing the Future:

Ever wondered how a superintendent can seemingly predict the future? It’s not magic; it’s a skill backed by three crucial habits. First up, crafting a master schedule. Building it yourself or collaborating closely ensures you can adapt and foresee potential roadblocks. Next, the short-term magic lies in the six-week make-ready look ahead. It’s the daily grind of checking manpower, materials, and equipment, ensuring you’re always one step ahead.

Three Habits of a Successful Builder:

Now, let’s talk habits. Successful builders don’t just execute tasks; they study the drawings daily, dedicating 15-30 minutes to ensure a profound understanding. This isn’t a one-time deal; it’s a daily commitment to seeing and shaping the future. Dive into the schedule for another 15-30 minutes each day. It’s not just about you; it’s about making the plan visible to the entire team. Lastly, take those insightful field walks. Yes, the building talks, and you need to listen. Capture issues, concerns, and victories through pictures, sharing them to keep everyone on the same page.

Key Items for a Superintendent:

Let’s hit some key items that should be in every superintendent’s toolkit. First and foremost, build that team. Assemble, but don’t stop there; use references like Patrick Lencioni’s books to master the art of team building. Training is the next biggie – never settle for just hiring the best; train them, connect with them, and make them family. This isn’t a side gig; it’s a superintendent’s main role.

Responsibilities of a Superintendent:

Ever heard of a captain delegating material procurement? Nope, and a superintendent doesn’t either. Supplying the project site with materials is your responsibility, hands-on. Just like a ship’s systems, you must ensure all construction systems are functioning seamlessly. Now, charting a course is where you collaborate with the project manager to create a clear vision – your ship needs a direction. Daily focus is your compass, ensuring the short intervals align with the grand destination.

Maintaining Clarity and Good Communication:

Communication is your superpower. Overcommunicate the why, when, and how daily until people are almost tired of hearing you. Remember, they need to hear it seven times. And, of course, there’s scaling clarity – daily updates, news, and constant reinforcement of the project’s vision.

Monitoring and Managing Risks:

Lastly, keep your ship afloat by monitoring and managing risks. Just like a captain, identify and remove roadblocks, work with your trade partners, and ensure nothing sinks your project.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it – the life and responsibilities of a construction superintendent. If you’re the captain of your ship, your team is trained, your supplies are intact, your systems are running, your course is charted, and your ship is afloat. Be the captain, embrace the responsibilities, and navigate your construction project to success.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

How To Maintain A Healthy Work-Life Balance

Posted on January 3, 2024October 23, 2024 by admin

Read 7 min

Today, I want to share some insights and strategies that have proven invaluable to me in maintaining a work-life balance that we all deserve.

Let’s face it, our industry has a reputation for demanding long hours, but it’s time to challenge that norm. I’m here to guide you through the tools, concepts, and a solid plan that will allow you to reclaim control over your time.

The Truth About Work Hours

Firstly, let’s address the elephant in the room – the sheer number of hours we often find ourselves working. Contrary to popular belief, not every hour at the construction site is productive. We have to debunk the myth that excessive hours are the only way to get the job done.

In essence, we need to work smarter, not harder. When I talk about a reasonable workweek, I’m not dismissing critical activities like crane operations or vital tie-ins. I’m advocating for a consistent, realistic work schedule that prioritizes our health and family life.

Key Tools and Concepts

1. To-Do List

Start with a comprehensive to-do list. Jot down everything that crosses your mind regarding your tasks. Remember, your mind is for generating ideas, not holding onto them. Clarify and prioritize – not every task is yours to handle.

2. Leader Standard Work

Check out the detailed video linked in the description for a deep dive into Leader Standard Work. It’s the strategic planning that ensures effectiveness in your leadership role, both at home and at work. Having a weekly calendar with clear priorities is crucial.

3. Morning Routine

Craft a morning routine that centers you for the day. Whether it’s meditation, exercise, or a moment of gratitude, start your day on a positive note. Leaders with a grateful and giving mindset are more influential.

4. Day Plan

Every day, formulate a plan based on your Leader Standard Work and top priorities from your to-do list. Include buffers for reflection and absorption. This structure allows you to accomplish your tasks efficiently.

Maintaining a Healthy Work-Life Balance

As you approach the end of your workday, remember that a good work-life balance doesn’t just happen; you need to make it happen.

1. Constraining Your Time

Set a realistic limit on your working hours. Constraining your time is essential; otherwise, the void will naturally be filled with unnecessary work. It’s about finishing the job effectively within the allocated hours.

2. Tracking Your Time

The small percentage who track their time diligently are the ones who excel. Regularly assess your weekly hours. If it took 60 hours one week, analyze why. Make improvements, set new goals, and gradually drive down your working hours.

Conclusion

In construction, we’re used to overcoming challenges, and time management should be no different. By implementing these strategies, you’re not just reclaiming control over your schedule; you’re taking the reins of your life.

Remember, you deserve a remarkable life, and it starts by taking charge of your time.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

How To Manage A Construction Project Step By Step

Posted on January 3, 2024October 23, 2024 by admin

Read 8 min

Introduction:
Running a construction project, whether large or complex, can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key components and step-by-step process to ensure success in managing construction projects effectively. By the end of this journey, you’ll gain valuable insights into project understanding, team assembly, effective communication, risk management, and monitoring critical project metrics.

Understanding the Complexity of Project Management
Project management is a complex field, especially in construction. Jason, an experienced professional, emphasizes that managing a construction project is not an insurmountable challenge if approached systematically. Drawing from his experience on multimillion-dollar projects, he highlights the existence of a formula that, when followed, can lead to remarkable outcomes. Whether dealing with a $200,000 or a $250 million project, the fundamental patterns remain the same.

The Importance of Project Understanding
The first critical step in running a successful construction project is gaining a deep understanding of it. Jason stresses the significance of immersing yourself in the project details by thoroughly examining the drawings, specifications, and prime agreement. This step is essential to comprehend the scope, requirements, and potential challenges of the project.

Two Crucial Pieces of Information for Your Team
Jason introduces two vital elements that every member of the construction project team should be aware of – typical details and specifications that could impact the schedule or construction process. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of extracting critical information from the prime agreement to ensure everyone is aligned on the project’s requirements and expectations.

Assembling the Right Team
Assembling a competent team is a cornerstone of successful construction project management. Jason outlines three key criteria for identifying the right team members: complementary skills, cultural fit with both the company and the project’s stakeholders, and hiring ideal team players who are humble, hungry, and smart. The emphasis is on creating a balanced team with diverse skills and a shared commitment to success.

Divide and Conquer: Clearly Defined Roles
“Divide and conquer” is Jason’s mantra for effective project execution. He emphasizes the importance of clearly defining roles and responsibilities for every team member. This strategy ensures that each individual is working in their area of expertise, promoting a collaborative environment where everyone contributes to the project’s success.

Elevating Communication within the Team
Communication is identified as a critical factor in project success. Jason advocates for holding remarkable meetings where team members actively participate and contribute. Additionally, he underscores the importance of physical proximity, encouraging face-to-face interactions and collaborative working environments to enhance communication and teamwork.

Identifying and Managing Risks
Understanding and managing risks is a vital aspect of project management. Jason advises conducting brainstorming sessions with the team to identify potential risks and opportunities. These should be documented in a risk and opportunity register, allowing the team to proactively address challenges and capitalize on opportunities throughout the project.

Monitoring Project Metrics
Monitoring project metrics is compared to conducting a “blood test” for the project’s health. Jason encourages project leaders to love numbers and utilize them to gauge the project’s performance. By keeping a close eye on schedules, finances, and other critical metrics, project managers can identify issues early on and make informed decisions to keep the project on track.

Conclusion: Take Action for Success
In conclusion, we encourage you to act by assessing their performance in each key area discussed. By scaling their effectiveness on a scale of one to ten, individuals can identify areas for improvement and focus on enhancing their leadership skills in the coming months. The guide wraps up with an invitation to like and subscribe for future content aimed at elevating construction industry professionals.

This comprehensive guide provides valuable insights for anyone involved in construction project management, offering a roadmap to navigate the complexities and challenges inherent in the field.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

The Truth About Work Hours

Key Tools and Concepts

1. To-Do List

2. Leader Standard Work

3. Morning Routine

4. Day Plan

Maintaining a Healthy Work-Life Balance

1. Constraining Your Time

2. Tracking Your Time

Conclusion

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