August 2024 - Elevate Constructionist

What Is Construction Planning And Scheduling?

Posted on August 28, 2024August 28, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 8 min

In construction, it’s critical to understand the difference between planning and scheduling. While many may confuse the two, they are not the same thing. Being a true builder means mastering the art of creating a production system, not just making pretty pictures on paper.

The Difference Between a Plan and a Schedule

At its core, a plan is a detailed proposal for achieving or doing something. A schedule, on the other hand, is the written representation of that plan—outlining the activities required, step by step, to accomplish it. But a schedule is just one component of a broader plan.

Think of a schedule as a visual representation of the plan, but remember that there are many other elements that contribute to a successful construction plan. You need written instructions, maps, zone diagrams, risk and opportunity registers, and logistics plans. If all you have is a 76-page CPM schedule that no one can read or understand, that isn’t a plan. A true plan encompasses so much more.

The Goal of a Construction Plan

The primary purpose of a plan and schedule is not just to get things done but to produce efficiently while meeting the client’s needs. A construction plan must ensure timely project completion, meet quality standards, and minimize costs. The ultimate goal is to build a production system that achieves this with the right throughput and the shortest duration, while maintaining the highest level of quality.

As General Dwight Eisenhower famously said, “Plans are worthless, but planning is everything.” This reflects a crucial truth in construction: a static plan is useless, but the act of planning is invaluable. By engaging in continuous planning, a project team learns how to execute the project and adapts as it progresses.

Why Construction Planning is Essential

There are three key reasons why construction planning is essential:

Learning the Project:
Effective planning helps the entire project team understand the scope and intricacies of the project. It forces them to dive into the details of the contract, drawings, specifications, and logistics. This understanding is vital for ensuring proper execution in the field.
Getting Everyone on the Same Page:
A well-visualized plan ensures that everyone on the team understands the project vision and goals. When everyone is on the same page, they can contribute their expertise and ingenuity to achieve the plan’s objectives. This helps avoid one of the common wastes in construction—failing to leverage the team’s collective wisdom.
Getting the Plan Right:
The planning process allows for constant refinement. Every project should go through multiple iterations of its plan to account for risks, contingencies, and adjustments. A plan frozen in time is useless—it’s the ability to update and adapt the plan that makes it effective. As the project evolves, the plan should, too.

Eight Key Elements of Every Construction Plan

To create a successful production plan, consider including the following eight key elements:

Takt Plan as Your Master Schedule:
This high-level schedule outlines the overall project strategy from start to finish.
CPM Summary (If Required):
Provide a high-level CPM summary to comply with any contract provisions.
Takt Zone Maps:
These maps visually represent how trades will progress through different zones of the project.
Logistics Plans:
Ensure that all logistics are carefully planned, considering the six key phases of logistics planning.
Basis of Schedule:
This narrative explains the context surrounding your production plan, including start and end times, overall strategies, and agreements with trade partners.
Trailer Design:
Set up a collaborative visual environment using tools like the Last Planner® System to communicate and adjust the plan with the team.
Organizational Chart:
Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each team member, ensuring accountability.
Risk and Opportunity Register:
Track risks and opportunities throughout the project to continuously optimize the plan.

Final Thoughts for Construction Supervisors

Remember, successful construction projects don’t go wrong—they start wrong. As a construction manager, your number one skill is planning. Your job is to create production plans that ensure your team can build successfully, efficiently, and on time. Planning is a continuous process that allows for adjustments based on real-time feedback and evolving project needs.

So, as you go forward, keep in mind that while plans may be useless, planning is everything. And before you break ground, make sure you’ve planned for success.

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!

Why Is It Important To Maintain A Clean Workplace?

Posted on August 28, 2024October 17, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 9 min

Get ready to understand cleanliness on a whole new level. Want to enjoy your work more? Looking to elevate your game when it comes to managing a project? Well, get ready to clean your mindset and elevate your productivity because we’re about to dive into why maintaining a clean workplace is critical for success.

How a Superintendent’s Mindset Affects a Construction Project

Let’s start with a game-changing concept: whatever you have in your mind manifests on the project. This might be tough for some to hear, but it’s true. If a superintendent lives in chaos—whether it’s a messy truck, an unkempt desk, or disorganized paperwork—it will inevitably reflect on the project.

A dirty project site is a direct reflection of the superintendent’s mindset. If your project is unclean, your mindset is likely cluttered. If the project is behind schedule, the leadership is unfocused. If the site has low morale, it’s because the mindset driving it is negative. Cleanliness starts in the mind and translates into your work environment.

The Impact of Cleanliness on Project Success

It’s not enough to ask someone with a messy desk, a truck filled with trash, and a disorganized life to run a clean and organized project. If their personal surroundings are chaotic, they won’t be able to manage the complexities of a multi-million-dollar project site effectively.

The role of a superintendent is a highly professional and well-trained position, one that requires precision and discipline. And that starts with maintaining cleanliness, safety, and organization. Cleanliness isn’t just about aesthetics; it directly impacts productivity, safety, and morale.

Why Cleanliness Matters on the Project Site

Why is cleanliness such a big deal on a construction site? Because every effective management tool is visual. You can’t manage what you can’t see. In a dirty environment, it’s impossible to identify bottlenecks, safety issues, or quality concerns. Cleanliness allows you to see problems before they escalate.

There’s also a psychological impact. Studies show that environments influence our emotions and stress levels. A cluttered, dirty space raises stress, while a clean, orderly environment promotes calm and clarity. Outer order brings inner calm. In a clean space, workers can focus, problem-solve, and be more productive.

Cleanliness as a Mindset

Cleanliness is more than a task—it’s a mindset. To achieve a clean and efficient project site, you need to start with your mindset, then align your personal life with supportive habits, and finally, implement cleanliness on-site. Cleanliness is the foundation of all other effective systems.

Paul Akers, a pioneer in Lean thinking, emphasizes the importance of daily improvement. Every day, workers should focus on cleaning and organizing their areas, identifying problems, and implementing small improvements. Imagine if every crew took responsibility for their environment and improved it daily—our construction projects would rival the precision of manufacturing.

Benefits of Maintaining a Clean Project Site

Here are some of the key benefits of maintaining cleanliness on your project site:

Enhanced Safety: Cleanliness reduces the risk of slips, trips, and falls—the most common incidents on construction sites. A clean site makes it easier to spot safety hazards like missing handrails or unstable structures.
Improved Morale: A clean environment fosters inner peace, which elevates the morale of the entire job site. Workers can focus on their tasks rather than constantly battling clutter and disorganization.
Leadership Development: Maintaining cleanliness is one of the hardest things to manage on a site. Once you master it, you’ll be able to tackle any challenge.
Foundation of Lean Thinking: Cleanliness is the starting point for Lean principles. It helps you identify waste, improve processes, and drive efficiency.

On the flip side, a messy environment leads to low morale, safety incidents, and production delays. A good foreman, worker, superintendent, or project manager is always clean and organized. Cleanliness is an indicator of excellence.

Learn More With These Resources

Ready to implement cleanliness on your job site? Check out our guide on how to introduce cleanliness practices and start improving your site today. Grasp the importance of cleanliness and take your project management skills to the next level!

Cleanliness isn’t just a habit—it’s a mindset that can transform your project and lead you to success. So, let’s start with cleanliness on our jobs and elevate our performance to new heights.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

How Do You Delegate Responsibilities To Your Team?

Posted on August 28, 2024August 28, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 9 min

If you’re overwhelmed by trying to do everything yourself, you’re in the right place. Proper delegation is key to effective leadership, but it requires careful planning, clear communication, and an understanding of the tasks at hand. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to delegate effectively and what essential elements you need to teach the person you’re delegating to, so that the process goes smoothly. Let’s dive in!

Why Delegation Is Important

Before we talk about how to delegate, let’s first understand why it’s essential. A well-known tool for prioritization is the Eisenhower Matrix, which divides tasks into four quadrants:

Important and urgent – things you should do immediately.
Important but not urgent – things you should plan for.
Urgent but not important – things you should delegate.
Neither important nor urgent – things you should not do at all.

Effective leadership means focusing on tasks that are important and urgent or important but not urgent. Anything urgent but not important should be delegated. If you consistently take on tasks that fall into this category, you’re not allowing others to grow and take responsibility.

Delegation Is Not Disrespectful—It’s Empowering

A crucial reminder when delegating tasks is that it’s not disrespectful to ask someone else to take on work. On the contrary, delegation is an opportunity for others to gain experience and develop their skills. By delegating, you’re contributing to their career progression and showing trust in their abilities.

Setting Up the Environment for Delegation

Before you start delegating tasks, you need to ensure the right structure is in place within your team. Here are a few steps to prepare:

Clearly Define Roles: Ensure everyone on your team has a defined role and that expectations are transparent. For instance, you might ask your team, “What does everyone expect from me as a leader?” This can help clarify roles and create a shared understanding.
Create a Scorecard for Each Role: Document the responsibilities of each role so everyone knows what’s expected of them. This clarity helps in understanding who should take on specific tasks.
Provide the Right Tools: Ensure that the people you’re delegating tasks to have the tools, training, workspace, and time needed to complete their assignments effectively.
Be Ready to Accept Their Best Efforts: When you delegate, be prepared to accept the efforts and ideas of your team, even if they differ from your own approach. Let them utilize their skills and creativity to get the job done.
Own the Follow-Up: While your team is responsible for the effort, you are still responsible for setting clear expectations and following up to ensure the work is completed properly.

Steps to Effective Delegation

Once your environment is ready, you can start the delegation process:

Use the Eisenhower Matrix: Begin by identifying tasks that you should delegate. Delegate tasks that are urgent but not important, and consider who is the best person to take them on.
Find the Right Person: Assign tasks to someone who is trained, capable, has the capacity, and would benefit from the experience. Avoid overwhelming your team with too much work, and ensure they have the skills needed to complete the task.
Set Clear Expectations: Provide detailed instructions for the task. Use tools like the impact filter to clarify:
- The purpose of the assignment
- The importance of the task
- The ideal outcome
- Success criteria
- The deadline
Allow Time and Space: Once you delegate a task, give your team the time and space to complete it without micromanaging. Let them iterate their work frequently and check in to ensure they are on the right track.
Offer Assistance: Check in with the person you delegated the task to, not to control the process but to offer support. Make it clear that you’re there to help if needed but trust their ability to get the job done.
Accept and Praise Efforts: When the task is completed, accept their best efforts, and offer praise for their work. If the task wasn’t done to your satisfaction, use it as a learning opportunity for both of you. Take ownership of any unclear instructions and provide feedback for improvement.

Conclusion

Delegation is a vital skill that allows you to focus on the tasks that matter most while helping your team grow. Remember, you don’t have to do everything yourself. Effective delegation creates a stronger, more capable team. Implement these strategies, and you’ll see the benefits of shared responsibility.

You win as a team!

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

What Is A Change Order In Project Management?

Posted on August 28, 2024August 28, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 9 min

In this blog post, I’m going to share with you the 10 commandments of change orders and how to keep them from derailing your team. You’ll find these principles invaluable, so let’s dive right in.

What Is a Change Order?

A change order is a document used to alter the original agreement. It details changes in scope, cost, and schedule. Often, the construction contract will dictate the change order process, which can arise from design changes, unforeseen conditions, or any reason to add or adjust the scope of work. It’s crucial not to proceed with work until you have financial approval. Always open a draft change order in your project management system to stay organized.

Commandment #1: Know Thy Contract

Success with change orders begins with understanding the contract. Know the change order process and the rules that govern it.

Commandment #2: Do Not Give Away Leverage

The owner wants the project, including any changes, completed. You just want to be compensated for the work. Don’t give away your leverage by doing the work without having financial approval in place.

Commandment #3: Know the Point of Release

Never, under any circumstances, perform change order work without a signed and authorized change order. Know the exact point where you can proceed with the work and receive payment.

Commandment #4: Ask for What You Need

When pricing a change order, be specific. If there’s demolition, reinstallation, additional hours, or any associated cost—price it in. Do not assume you can add more later; ask for what you need from the start.

Commandment #5: Time Is Money

Don’t just focus on the financial aspect—ensure you’ve accounted for time. Get the time extension you need, following the contract’s rules.

Commandment #6: Surprise Not the Owner

Never assume the owner knows about delays and disruptions. They need information to manage budgets and schedules. Keeping them informed helps with getting fair compensation.

Commandment #7: Be Persistent

Persistence yields results. If something needs to be resolved, stay on it until it’s done.

Commandment #8: Know Your Bargaining Power

You have just as much bargaining power as the owner because they need you to complete the work. Don’t give away your leverage.

Commandment #9: The Job Isn’t Done Until the Money Is Collected

Unsuccessful managers make excuses, but successful ones ensure profitability. The job isn’t complete until you get paid for the work you’ve done.

Commandment #10: Make It Lawyer-Proof

Ensure all documentation is in the correct format and can stand up in court if needed. Protect your right to compensation by following the proper legal guidelines.

The Reality of Change Orders

There’s a common perception that change orders aren’t great for profitability. The administrative burden can be immense, and many trade partners may be doing you a favor by agreeing to them. Whenever possible, reduce the number of change orders, as they can create significant variation in a project.

How to Prevent Change Orders from Derailing Your Project

Change orders can bring chaos, but if managed well, they don’t have to derail your project. Here’s a foolproof method to keep them in check:

Clearly Identify Impacts: As soon as a delay or change occurs, document it in your meeting minutes, daily reports, and legal schedule. Make sure to keep the main part of your workforce moving forward. Change orders should not disrupt your primary work.
Allocate Specific Labor: If your team doesn’t have the capacity to manage change order documentation and approvals, hire additional resources. Keep your main team focused on the original contract work, and handle change orders separately.
Prioritize the Contract: Always focus on fulfilling your contractual obligations first. Change orders should be secondary in priority to ensure your project team stays on track and avoids distraction.

A Real-World Example

John Kaufman, a General Superintendent, once shared a story on our podcast about recovering a project overwhelmed with change orders. By separating the management and labor for the change orders from the main workforce, the project was successfully delivered. The key was maintaining focus and morale while addressing change orders in a systematic way.

Final Thoughts

The only time change orders derail a project is when they create unmitigated chaos and variation. By following the 10 commandments and keeping your eye on the ball, you’ll avoid those pitfalls.

If you’re ready to master change orders and keep your projects on track, I’ve linked a beautifully formatted guide below that outlines these 10 commandments. Use it to safeguard your project, and let’s continue on the path to success!

On we go!

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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What Is The Role Of A Project Administrator?

Posted on August 28, 2024August 28, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 11 min

In this blog post, we’re going to cover an often-overlooked yet vital role in the construction industry: the project administrator. Do you currently work with a project administrator? If not, you’re missing out on one of the coolest and most impactful positions on any job site. Want to know how to effectively partner with a project administrator and make the relationship sustainable? We’ll cover that in detail below.

What Is The Role Of A Project Administrator?

A project administrator is responsible for coordinating project activities, managing schedules, and ensuring that deliverables are completed on time and within budget. They support breaking the project down into manageable steps, create workflows, analyze risks, and manage project documentation. This role is essential for supporting the entire team, ensuring that key administrative functions are handled smoothly, and that both the superintendent and the project manager can focus on higher-risk tasks.

Project administrators also handle routine administrative tasks such as managing emails, calls, and visitors, often providing a public interface to the management team through the job site trailer. In short, they keep things running smoothly, ensuring the stability of all administrative functions.

How Project Administrators Provide Stability

One of the key benefits of a project administrator is the stability they provide. From handling orientations and managing project signage to scheduling team meetings and providing notifications to neighbors, they make sure everything that needs to work consistently does so. This allows project managers and superintendents to focus on critical tasks without worrying about the smaller but essential details, like ensuring that the onboarding system is functioning or that the signage is updated.

How Project Administrators Maintain Consistency

By managing these systems and processes, project administrators ensure a level of consistent quality. If different members of the team were tasked with these duties, it would likely lead to inconsistency and a drop in quality. A dedicated project administrator ensures that these routine but crucial tasks are handled consistently, freeing up other team members to focus on their specialized work.

How Project Administrators Ensure Standards Are Met

Project administrators play a key role in upholding project standards. Whether it’s maintaining training standards, onboarding protocols, or safety and quality expectations for trade partners, project administrators make sure that everything aligns with the company’s requirements. This ensures that when trade partners arrive on-site, they are ready to work, fully trained, and equipped to meet the project’s standards.

How Project Administrators Enable Leaders to Focus on Higher-Risk Work

The work handled by project administrators enables other project leaders, such as project managers and superintendents, to focus on higher-risk and more complex tasks. With the project administrator taking care of routine, consistent tasks, these leaders can concentrate on major decisions, coordination efforts, and other high-impact work that drives the project forward.

Importance of Respecting Project Administrators

One of the most important things to remember is that a project administrator is not there simply to take on all the tasks you don’t want to do. This role is vital for creating stability and consistency on the project site. It is crucial to respect this position, appreciate the hard work involved, and never take it for granted. Simple acts of recognition, such as saying thank you or helping lighten their load when needed, go a long way.

How to Help Project Administrators with Their Needs

A project administrator’s job can sometimes feel thankless, even though they often appear organized and self-sufficient. It’s always a good idea to ask them directly what they need to do their job better and what support they may require. Small gestures of appreciation, such as giving them an afternoon off or offering a token of thanks, can make a big difference in keeping them motivated.

Provide Clear Instructions

One way to support project administrators is by ensuring that instructions are clear and unambiguous. This means their role scorecard, assignments, and workflows should be well-defined. When they have clarity in their responsibilities, they can perform their job at the highest level and contribute to the overall success of the project.

Always Reduce Waste

It’s essential to treat the project administrator’s role with the same focus on lean principles as other positions. This means continuously seeking to eliminate waste from their processes. They should be focusing on necessary, value-added activities, not being burdened with inefficient or redundant tasks.

Important Advice for Project Administrators

If you are a project administrator, your role in keeping the project stable is critical. The higher the level of stability you maintain, the more productive and enjoyable the job site experience will be for everyone. Support your team members and help them stay ahead of their tasks by removing roadblocks and keeping the project on track.

Additionally, always look for ways to help your team leaders focus on their high-risk tasks by managing the consistent, day-to-day functions. Your contribution to the project’s flow and success is invaluable.

What Success Looks Like for Project Administrators

Success for a project administrator means that everyone on the project, from workers and foremen to designers and vendors, can arrive on-site and find everything in order. Clear systems should be in place for orientations, signage, permits, and other administrative functions, creating a stable and clean environment where work can be executed efficiently. When these systems are running smoothly, project managers and superintendents can focus on building without distraction, ensuring the success of the entire project.

This is what success looks like in the role of a project administrator.

Learn More With These Resources

To help you elevate your project administrator role, we’ve linked a free resource that outlines this position in detail. Once you implement these best practices, you’ll see remarkable improvements in your projects.

On we go!

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

General Contractor vs. Construction Manager: Understanding the Differences

Posted on August 28, 2024August 28, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 9 min

In this blog, we’ll dive into the differences between a General Contractor (GC) and a Construction Manager (CM), and explore when these two roles actually come together. If you’re curious about the distinctions between the two and how to approach each role effectively, you’re in the right place.

Importance of Understanding Different Roles in a Construction Project

Understanding the distinct roles and responsibilities in a construction project is crucial for building a successful team. Every project starts by clearly defining what each team member is responsible for—and more importantly, what they are accountable for. The differences between a General Contractor and a Construction Manager are significant, but there are key aspects that should be a focus regardless of which role you play. Drawing from my experience at Elevate and as a General Contractor at LeanBuilt, I’ll share insights that can help you navigate these roles.

The Role of a Construction Manager

A Construction Manager acts as an advisor and overseer of the entire construction project. They work closely with the owner from the beginning—sometimes even during the design phase—all the way through to project completion. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the project stays within budget and on schedule.

Construction Managers typically work on a fee basis. They do not take on financial risk in the project but are hired to make sure it stays on track. Their responsibilities include:

Planning and scheduling.
Budget management and cost control.
Coordination with engineers, architects, contractors, and subcontractors.
Ensuring safety compliance.
Assuring quality.
Communicating with all stakeholders.

A Construction Manager may work as part of a construction management firm or as an independent consultant. However, it’s important to note that they are not necessarily the General Contractor.

The Role of a General Contractor

A General Contractor, on the other hand, is directly responsible for executing the work on-site with the trade partners or subcontractors. Unlike a Construction Manager, a General Contractor is a part of the financial structure of the project, meaning they own the risk. They are usually incentivized based on the success of the project, with their fee tied to performance.

The responsibilities of a General Contractor include:

Hiring subcontractors.
Procuring materials and equipment.
Ensuring construction adheres to plans and specifications.
Managing the construction schedule.
Addressing issues that arise during construction.
Ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations.

General Contractors are typically hired by the project owner or developer and work under contracts like lump sum, cost-plus, or guaranteed maximum price (GMP). Their role is essential in managing the day-to-day aspects of the construction process.

How a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) Contract Works

One interesting hybrid approach is the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR). In this setup, the Construction Manager starts early in the design phase, helping the owner manage the project from preconstruction through to execution. If the Construction Manager reaches a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) agreement for the design, they essentially take on the role of the General Contractor, assuming the risk for the construction phase.

This model combines the best of both worlds: the advisory role of the CM with the accountability of the GC. I believe it’s the most effective approach because it ensures the party managing the project has “skin in the game,” which is crucial for accountability and successful project outcomes.

How to Lessen Risks in a Construction Project

One of the most significant risks in a construction project comes from segregating the design and construction phases. When the General Contractor is not involved in the design, it can lead to gaps in understanding and increased risk for the owner. A CM at risk approach helps to narrow this gap by involving the contractor in the design process, reducing the potential for miscommunication and errors during construction.

The Key to a Successful Construction Project

The key to a successful project is ensuring that the party running the project has planned it thoroughly, can bring all interests together, and has a vested interest in its success. Whether you choose a CM, GC, or CM at risk, make sure that the structure of your project includes all these components. On larger projects, you might involve both a CM and a GC. If so, it’s critical that they collaborate effectively and do not work at cross purposes.

Benefits of General Contractors That Do Self-Perform Work

Finally, I want to emphasize the advantages of General Contractors that do self-perform work. These GCs not only manage but also directly participate in the building process. The benefits include:

Greater control over quality.
Improved cost efficiency.
Increased schedule flexibility.
Enhanced expertise and problem-solving on-site.
Better risk management.
Competitive advantage.
More knowledgeable builders within the organization.
Increased profitability.
Improved reliability and coordination on the project site.

I’m a strong advocate for GCs that self-perform because they bring an added layer of reliability and expertise to the project, leading to better outcomes for all stakeholders.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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How To Create A Culture Of Trust In The Workplace

Posted on August 21, 2024August 21, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 12 min

You can’t build anything without trust—it’s literally crucial to everything we do. In this blog post, we’re going to share three key factors to building trust, along with specific ways for you to foster trust at every level. We’ll also explore what this looks like on the job site from a practical standpoint. Let’s dive in!

What is Trust?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s clarify what trust is. For you to trust me—and I hope you do—you need to feel confident in three things: my intentions, my experience, and my track record.

Intentions

What am I trying to achieve in our relationship? Are my motives good, or are they selfish? Your ability to trust me starts with knowing that my intentions are honest and aligned with the greater good.

Track Record

Have I been successful before? When it comes to building trust in a workplace setting, you want to know if I’ve done it before. If I’ve proven my capability, you’ll have a reason to trust me.

Experience

Do I have the relevant experience? My experience should resonate with you. If I’ve worked in the fields you care about, you’ll find it easier to trust my input.

Trust is built on these three factors—intentions, track record, and experience. Together, they form the foundation of any successful relationship, especially in a team environment.

Building Trust on a Construction Project

To create trust on your project site, it’s essential to foster it in three distinct areas:

With the project leader
Within the project itself
Among the crew members and their respective teams

Let’s break down some practical steps to build trust in each of these areas.

How Leaders Can Build Trust

As a project leader, it’s your responsibility to establish trust across the team. Here are seven key strategies to help you do that:

Orientations

Kick things off with an orientation that’s captivating and useful. Demonstrate your passion and clearly communicate your expectations. Even if you can’t attend every orientation, consider recording a video where you personally address the team. This small step shows your commitment and begins to build trust.

Foreman Huddles

Daily foreman huddles are essential for collaborative planning. Actively listening to your foremen and addressing their needs will build trust throughout the team. The workers will follow their foreman’s behavior, and as trust grows at the foreman level, it will extend to the entire project.

Worker Huddles

Taking just five to ten minutes each morning to engage with workers can significantly boost trust. This is a time for training, recognition, and open communication. Workers will feel valued and connected, leading to higher trust levels across the board.

Engagements

Engaging with your team through events like barbecues, holiday celebrations, or even just small gatherings can go a long way. When workers feel appreciated, they are more likely to trust you and the project.

Site Conditions

The condition of the project site speaks volumes. Clean restrooms, organized entryways, and well-maintained lunch areas are signs of respect. When workers see that you care about the environment they work in, they will be more inclined to trust you and reciprocate by treating the site well.

Leading by Example

Show your team that you follow the same rules they do. Whether it’s picking up trash, helping with tasks when needed, or simply shaking hands with workers, these small actions show that you’re a leader who cares. Your hands-on approach will strengthen trust across the team.

Micro-actions

It’s often the small gestures that build the most trust. Saying thank you, acknowledging someone’s efforts, or even bringing snacks to the lunch area can have a significant impact. These micro-actions show that you genuinely care, and they help create a strong bond with your team.

Trust Between Trade Partners

In addition to building trust with leadership, it’s essential to foster trust between trade partners. Here are four key strategies for creating trust among trades:

Contractor Grading

Create a grading system to evaluate contractors on cleanliness, safety, punctuality, and rule compliance. When everyone is held to the same standards, trust between trades will grow. Enforcing this grading system ensures that each contractor is accountable, which in turn strengthens the project’s stability.

Worker Huddles

Worker huddles are not only essential for leader-to-worker trust, but also for fostering trust between different crews. Use this time to build camaraderie, encourage teamwork, and recognize achievements.

Mutual Accountability

Establish shared standards and enforce them consistently. When everyone is held accountable to the same expectations, trust will naturally develop between trade partners. This mutual accountability fosters a cooperative environment.

Implementation of Last Planner System

A system that encourages teams to make and keep commitments helps build trust. When teams are transparent, collaborative, and accountable, they begin to rely on each other more, creating a stronger, more unified project team.

Building Trust Between Foremen and Crews

Finally, crews must trust their own foremen for a project to succeed. Here are three ways to foster that trust:

Crew Preparation Huddles

Use the crew huddle as a time to review the day’s tasks, address concerns, and ensure everyone understands the plan. A well-executed crew huddle can set a positive tone for the day and help build trust between workers and their foremen.

Check-ins Throughout the Day

Regularly check in with workers to see how they’re doing and offer support. These moments of interaction show that you care about their success and well-being, which builds trust.

Consistency

A consistent crew that works together over time will naturally develop trust. Whenever possible, keep teams intact to maintain that trust and strengthen working relationships.

Two Key Factors for Workplace Trust

To wrap things up, there are two key factors that will help you build trust in the workplace:

Worker Huddles
Nothing connects a team like coming together daily as one unified group. You can’t be one team unless you meet as one team.
Ask What Builds Trust
At every level—worker, foreman, project team, owner, architect—ask the question: “What builds trust for you?” Once you know the answer, respond to it and actively work to build that trust.

Trust is the cornerstone of a successful team and project. By implementing these strategies, you’ll create a workplace culture where people trust each other, collaborate effectively, and perform at their best.

I hope you use these tips to build trust in your team and experience the benefits of working in an environment where trust is at the core of everything you do.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

What Does It Mean To Be A Good Neighbor?

Posted on August 21, 2024October 17, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 9 min

Being a good neighbor in construction is more than just a courtesy—it’s a mark of true excellence. Anyone can build a project, but only the best do it with such skill and care that the neighbors hardly even notice the disruption. Imagine handling your construction site like a ninja at night—where the building goes up without a hitch, and those outside the project limits hardly feel the impact.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how to manage your construction project in a way that keeps neighbors, building owners, and everyone involved happy. We’ll walk you through steps that will not only help you become a better construction professional but will also ensure that the building owner sees you as an extension of their team and interests. By following these steps, you can take care of everyone like they’re your customers, including the neighbors outside your fence. Let’s dive in!

The Concept of Customers in Lean Construction

In Lean thinking, there’s a concept called “customers.” The building owner isn’t your only customer—your customers include the neighbors, motorists, pedestrians, trade partners, vendors, and even yourself. Every stakeholder that your project interacts with is a customer.

If you adopt this mindset, you’ll realize that the same level of care and service you provide to the building owner should be extended to all of these other entities. Yes, it’s possible to do this—especially for the neighbors affected by your construction.

How to Be a Good Neighbor in Construction

So, what does it mean to be a good neighbor in construction? It’s about seeing things from others’ perspectives, particularly the building owner and the surrounding community. When you understand their concerns, anticipate risks, and truly care about their needs, you can operate your project with minimal disruption and maximum respect. Here’s how:

Reduce Noise, Dust, and Impact: Ensure the construction noise, dust, and hours of operation don’t negatively affect the neighborhood. Pay special attention to access to residences, walking paths, and driveways.
Respect Trades and Vendors: Take care of your trade partners and vendors by ensuring their work is well-coordinated, safe, and efficient. Respect their workers by providing proper conditions on-site.
Take Care of Yourself: Don’t forget to prioritize your own needs. Speak up when necessary and seek win-win situations that benefit both you and the project.

Only the best construction leaders know how to care for all these stakeholders simultaneously, all while executing a plan with precision. Anyone can build a project, but only the best can do it while treating everyone with care and respect.

A Change in Perspective

Here’s a tip that I wish I had learned earlier in my career:

What if your grandma lived on the corner? This mindset shift helps you view your project from a more compassionate and considerate angle.

For example, on one of my projects, we were building near residential complexes, pedestrian walkways, and a busy university campus. One of the building owners asked me, “What about that neighbor?” Initially, I thought, “It’s their fault for living near a construction site.” But I soon realized that I needed to consider their perspective.

We implemented solutions like building barricades to reduce noise, adjusting schedules for concrete placements, preventing dust, and maintaining safe access for neighbors. This approach showed us the value of seeing things through others’ eyes. Would I still make the same decisions if my grandma lived nearby? That question became a guiding principle in my construction practices.

6 Steps to Be a Good Neighbor in Construction

Let’s break it down into six actionable steps you can follow to ensure you’re being a good neighbor on your construction site:

Reduce Your Impact: Minimize disruption to the surrounding community as much as possible.
Make Life Easier for Neighbors: Ensure access to their homes, paths, and driveways is maintained.
Effective Wayfinding: Make sure signage around your site is clear, effective, and helps people navigate easily.
Communicate Regularly: Keep neighbors informed with signage, bulletins, newsletters, and other updates. Make it fun when possible!
Prioritize Safety: Ensure all public areas around the project site are safe for pedestrians and vehicles.
Respect Their Property: Treat your neighbors’ property like it’s your own. Take extra care with noise, dust, parking, and deliveries.

Conclusion: Creating a Better Experience for Everyone

Being a good neighbor in construction means stepping into someone else’s shoes and seeing the project from their perspective. When you make the effort to reduce your impact, communicate effectively, and treat everyone like a customer, you not only build a better project—you build stronger relationships.

A building owner once told me, “It should be like ninjas in the night—the building should almost be a surprise to the neighbors because the impact was so minimal.” That’s the goal. When you approach construction with this mindset, you’ll reduce friction, build trust with the owner, and create a much more pleasant experience for everyone involved.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

How To Promote Construction Company On Social Media

Posted on August 21, 2024October 23, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 10 min

Social media is the next step for your construction business. Are you nervous about jumping into it? Don’t be! Let’s take this journey together. If you want to know how to get started, make the process feel more natural, and convert this into real sales, you’re in the right place. So stay with us!

Our Experience Using Social Media to Market Our Construction Business

Although the construction industry is often slower to adopt new trends and doesn’t produce much viral content, social media can still generate incredible traction for your business. At Elevate Construction, our success is a testament to that. 100% of our sales and business opportunities have come through social media channels—no cold calls or door-to-door sales. Instead, it’s been LinkedIn, YouTube, podcasting, and email campaigns.

This proves that even in a traditionally non-digital industry like construction, social media can be a game changer. You might think that only certain types of people can be successful on these platforms, but that’s just not true. It’s challenging for everyone at first, but it’s definitely possible, and the rewards are significant. Social media has had a massive impact not only on our business but also on our ability to support our families, sustain the company, and give back to the industry.

12 Steps to Get Started with Social Media for Your Construction Company

Find Your Passion

Every business has a unique passion. Whether you build custom homes, offer construction management services, or help veterans transition into construction, find what aligns with your business and focus on that. Your passion is the foundation of your social media presence.

Become Attractive

This may sound odd, but just like in dating, if you want to attract the right audience, you need to be attractive to them. Build a company that people want to follow. If you want to attract great clients or employees, you must present your business as one they’d be proud to work with. Your message and energy should be clear and passionate.

Find What to Share

Think about the valuable content you want to share. In construction, adding value to your audience should be your number one priority. Whether it’s tips, advice, or case studies, always aim to help before you ever ask for anything in return. This way, your audience knows you’re there for them.

Add Value First

The key to success in social media is to give, give, and give some more before suggesting any sales. Your podcast, blog post, LinkedIn updates, or email campaigns should focus on adding value to the industry. Build trust by providing solutions and helpful information, and the business will follow.

Find Your Preferred Way of Sharing

What format feels most natural to you? Do you enjoy writing blog posts, sending email newsletters, posting on LinkedIn, or creating YouTube videos? Stick to what feels most comfortable. The easier and more enjoyable it is for you, the more likely you’ll stick with it.

Identify the Right Person to Share

Choose the right person to be the face of your company’s social media presence. It should preferably be someone from your leadership team or an expert who is passionate and knowledgeable. Consistency is key, so make sure the same person is regularly communicating with your audience.

Ask Why People Would Listen

Always keep your audience in mind. Ask yourself why they would take the time to listen or read your content. Find out what questions your target audience is asking on Google, and make sure you answer them.

Seek Professional Help If Needed

If you’re unsure where to start or need guidance on perfecting your content, don’t hesitate to hire an expert. Whether it’s social media consulting or content creation services, professional help can accelerate your progress.

Find the Best Platforms for Your Business

Experiment with different platforms and see what works best. For our business, LinkedIn, YouTube, podcasts, and email campaigns have been the most effective. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok didn’t work as well for us, so we focused on what did.

Maintain Consistency

Consistency is key. Make sure you stick to the platforms and content styles that resonate with your audience. Use titles and topics based on what people are actively searching for online. This will ensure you stay relevant.

Stick With It

Social media success doesn’t happen overnight. Our podcast is over three and a half years old, and we’re nearing one million downloads. LinkedIn has taken just as long to build up to nearly 30,000 followers. It takes time—between 6 to 18 months—to see real results, so stick with it.

Make It All Funnel Back to Your Business

Once you’ve built a strong social media presence, funnel everything back to your business. Whether it’s through a call to action, a website link, or a landing page, ensure your audience knows how to engage with you further. The goal is to provide value while subtly guiding them to your services or products when they’re ready.

Learn More with These Resources

Starting your construction company’s social media journey might seem intimidating, but it’s more accessible and less time-consuming than you think.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

How To Keep The Workplace Clean And Safe

Posted on August 21, 2024August 21, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 11 min

In this blog post, we’re going to discuss one of the most crucial aspects of Lean Construction: keeping the workplace clean and safe. Maintaining a clean project site is, without a doubt, one of the most challenging tasks you’ll face. It’s a job for masters, and I’m about to show you exactly how it’s done. Want real, actionable tips and tricks for keeping your project spotless, not just vague concepts? You’re in the right place. Let’s dive in.

Importance of Cleanliness in Lean Construction

Let me start by emphasizing how central cleanliness is to Lean Construction. Cleanliness supports all other lean principles, especially respect for people. It fosters stability, supports a smooth one-piece flow, and ensures that visual systems are effective. You can’t have continuous improvement without a clean environment; a cluttered space hides opportunities for progress. So, know this: there is no such thing as implementing a lean system or lean project without cleanliness.

What Cleanliness Really Looks Like

When I talk about cleanliness, I mean pristine floors, spotless entryways, and immaculate bathrooms and roadways. Every part of your site—from plaster contractors to the exterior walls—should be clean. My personal cleanliness test is simple: as a superintendent, I should be able to walk the project site and pick up any trash I find with just my left hand. If there’s more trash than I can handle in one hand, that site isn’t clean enough. When I find a messy area, I take action, consolidating the debris into a pile and notifying the trade partners that it needs to be addressed immediately.

If a project zone isn’t clean, the work stops. Crews are required to tidy the area before continuing. It’s important to note that I’m not asking workers to interrupt their tasks every time something falls. If you drop something while on a ladder, clean it up when you’re finished. However, you should look for creative solutions to prevent mess in the first place—better ladders, trash receptacles at cut stations, gondolas for waste. The goal is simple: prevent clutter and keep your site clean.

How to Include Cleanliness in Trade Partner Contracts

One of the most effective ways to ensure cleanliness is to write it into your trade partners’ contracts. Everyone should know that maintaining a clean environment is non-negotiable. If a crew fails to keep their area clean, the entire team will be asked to stop and clean immediately.

How to Maintain Cleanliness on Site

Your site should be organized in a way that makes it easy to maintain cleanliness. Ensure you have enough trash cans, chutes, hoists, and access points to remove scrap and waste efficiently. Have recycling dumpsters available at all times and make cleanliness a daily priority, starting from day one. Begin with worker orientation and clearly communicate cleanliness expectations.

Importance of Building Remarkable Bathrooms

Whether you’re using permanent bathrooms or porta-potties, keeping these areas clean sets the tone for the entire project. Workers take notice. Clean, well-maintained bathrooms are a signal that cleanliness is a priority across the site.

Reminding Operators to Keep Their Areas Clean

Crane, hoist, and forklift operators should all ensure their areas are perfectly clean before performing any operations. If they come across debris or clutter, they should stop work until the area is cleaned. Encourage everyone to pitch in—this isn’t a one-person job. Keeping access points clean will set the standard for the rest of the site.

Daily Tasks to Maintain Cleanliness on Site

Teach your teams about the importance of cleanliness during daily worker huddles. Use tools like WhatsApp chats to communicate any areas that need attention, posting pictures of messes and addressing them immediately. By consistently focusing on cleanliness, you’ll stay ahead of chaos and keep the site under control.

Setting a Good Example

As a superintendent or project manager, you need to model the behavior you expect. Pick up trash yourself. Keep your desk, truck, and office clean. Lead by example. When your workers see you prioritizing cleanliness, they’ll follow suit.

How to Maintain Cleanliness in General Areas

Assign laborers or carpenters to maintain general areas of the site that aren’t owned by specific trades. These public areas need to be kept tidy at all times.

Implementing Zero Tolerance for Cleanliness

Implement a zero-tolerance policy for mess. Crews should stop work and clean up whenever a mess is identified. Develop a habit of cleaning up before lunch, after lunch, and at the end of the day, with more detailed cleanups happening at the end of each week.

Avoid using composite cleanup crews—they mask the problem rather than solving it. Instead, enforce the idea that each trade is responsible for cleaning up their own work area.

Including Cleanliness in Your Grading System

Make cleanliness a factor in your trade partner grading system. Evaluate each trade partner on their ability to maintain a clean environment, and share these grades with everyone on the project, including the trade partner’s company owners. You’ll find that this elevates the standard of cleanliness across the board.

Key Steps to Maintain Cleanliness in Construction

Finally, foremen and crews should always remember these key steps for maintaining a clean worksite:

Start each day with 5S, even if it’s just for five minutes.
Encourage workers to memorize the eight wastes and make daily improvements.
Set up areas ahead of work with the right tools, equipment, and supplies.
Prioritize cleanliness as the most important task.
Reward clean environments and efforts to maintain them.

At the end of the day, a clean superintendent is a successful superintendent, a clean foreman is an effective foreman, and a clean worker is a productive worker. Cleanliness is the foundation for success in Lean Construction, and it is not optional—it’s a duty. Your project should be as organized and spotless as a manufacturing facility. I promise you, it can be done.

Learn More with These Resources

To support you further, I’ll include a link to a blog post on 5S and how to create clean, operationally stable environments. If you can control cleanliness, you can control everything. It’s the basis for success in Lean Construction. On we go!

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

Month: August 2024

What Is Construction Planning And Scheduling?

Why Is It Important To Maintain A Clean Workplace?

How Do You Delegate Responsibilities To Your Team?

What Is A Change Order In Project Management?

What Is The Role Of A Project Administrator?

General Contractor vs. Construction Manager: Understanding the Differences

How To Create A Culture Of Trust In The Workplace

What Does It Mean To Be A Good Neighbor?

How To Promote Construction Company On Social Media

How To Keep The Workplace Clean And Safe

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© 2024 elevate construction ist LLC All Rights Reserved. |

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