March 2025 - Elevate Constructionist

CPM or Critical Path Method: How CPM Increases WIP

Posted on March 14, 2025March 14, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 4 min

The Hidden Pitfalls of CPM: How It Increases Work in Progress

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is widely used in construction scheduling, but it comes with a serious downside—it increases work in progress (WIP) beyond the available capacity of resources. This creates unnecessary stress, inefficiencies, and delays that can derail a project. Let’s break down why this happens and what you should do instead.

Understanding CPM and Its Impact:

CPM schedules projects using a time-on-top, deliverable format, where activities are logic-tied in sequence. A computer algorithm then performs forward and backward passes to determine the critical path—the sequence of tasks where any delay impacts the entire project.

The problem? This method forces work to start as early as possible without considering resource availability, pushing teams beyond their limits and creating chaos on-site.

Why CPM Increases Work in Progress:

Here’s how CPM inflates work beyond a manageable level:

No Buffers in the Critical Path – With zero float, delays are inevitable, yet there’s no flexibility built into the schedule.
Early Start Mentality – Everything is set to start as soon as possible, overwhelming trade partners.
Large Batch Areas – Work is scheduled in massive chunks rather than properly zoned sequences.
Trade Stacking – Too many trades are forced to work in the same area at the same time.
Trade Burdening – Individual trades are scheduled in multiple areas simultaneously, making it impossible to maintain efficiency.

The Downward Productivity Spiral:

When CPM inflates work in progress:

Productivity drops as teams struggle with overcrowding and mismanaged sequencing.
Projects finish late because crews are constantly behind.
Costs increase due to wasted effort and rework.
Worker morale declines, leading to more mistakes and inefficiencies.

A Better Approach:

Instead of CPM, flow-based scheduling with proper zoning, realistic work sequencing, and built-in buffers can help projects stay on track without overloading resources.

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

The Ultimate Guide To Managing Commercial Construction Inspections

Posted on March 13, 2025March 13, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 6 min

The Ultimate Guide to Managing Commercial Construction Inspections

Managing commercial construction inspections effectively is crucial for keeping projects on schedule and maintaining quality standards. In this blog, we’ll explore key strategies, essential attitudes, and real-world lessons that will help you navigate inspections successfully.

A Real-World Example of Inspection Success:

Brent Elliott, a highly skilled professional at DPR, provided a perfect example of how to manage inspections effectively. While working together on the Bioscience Research Laboratory in Tucson, Arizona, Brent maintained an inspection board behind his desk. It included all the key areas requiring inspection, a testing and inspection register, a schedule, and a corrective action log. This level of organization allowed him to stay on top of every inspection requirement, earning the trust and respect of inspectors.

The Secret to Smooth Inspections:

Inspectors want to see an organized and proactive team. If they arrive on-site and see disorganized drawings, missing permits, or inconsistent scheduling, it creates stress and erodes trust. However, if they witness a well-run process with thorough documentation, pre-inspections, and prompt corrective actions, they are more likely to develop a collaborative relationship with your team.

Key Steps for Successful Inspections:

Understand Project Inspection Requirements:

Start by familiarizing yourself with inspection requirements from the authority having jurisdiction, the project specifications, and preconstruction meetings. You must inspect work yourself before calling for an official inspection—inspectors should serve as a verification step, not the primary quality control measure.

Maintain Proactive Communication with Inspectors:

Building a strong relationship with inspectors is essential. Always communicate openly, listen to their feedback, and address their concerns promptly. A cooperative approach fosters trust and helps prevent unnecessary conflicts that could delay your project.

Ensure Thorough Documentation:

Every aspect of the inspection process should be documented meticulously. This includes:

Highlighted maps of inspection areas.
Copies of inspection requests and reports.
A log of corrective actions with detailed responses.

Proper documentation not only ensures compliance but also streamlines communication with all stakeholders.

Complete Corrective Actions Promptly:

Inspectors typically do not penalize teams for identifying issues—they penalize teams for failing to resolve them. Addressing corrective actions within 24 hours shows a commitment to quality and reliability, preventing minor issues from escalating into major setbacks.

Maintain a Clean and Safe Job Site:

A clean and safe construction site builds instant credibility with inspectors. If your site is well-maintained, they will be more inclined to trust your processes and documentation. Remember, how you manage cleanliness and safety reflects how you handle quality.

Final Thoughts:

Implementing these steps can transform your inspection process, ensuring smoother operations and stronger relationships with inspectors. Having a structured approach—like using an inspection board, keeping detailed documentation, and proactively communicating—will make a significant difference.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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Commercial Construction Marketing Tips

Posted on March 12, 2025March 12, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 7 min

Commercial Construction Marketing Tips: How to Stand Out and Attract Clients

Marketing in the commercial construction industry is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in business growth. In this blog, I’ll share key strategies to help you establish a strong presence, attract the right clients, and position yourself as an industry leader.

Build a Strong Brand Identity:

A powerful brand identity is essential. Your company’s name and logo should immediately communicate what you do. When we created Elevate Construction, the name itself told people what we’re about—raising the standards of construction. Similarly, our construction company, Lean Built, clearly signals a focus on lean construction methods.

Your branding should be clear, professional, and memorable. Avoid generic names—your company should stand out and reflect your mission. Investing in professional design is important because your brand is the first impression clients will have of you.

Create a User-Friendly and Informative Website:

Your website serves as your digital storefront. A poorly designed, cluttered, or outdated website can drive potential clients away. When we first started, our website was not effective, and people noticed. Now, we have a clean, professional, and easy-to-navigate site, but it took months to refine, and we are still improving it.

An effective website should have:

A clean and visually appealing design.
Easy navigation.
Search engine optimization (SEO) for visibility.
Clear information about your services.
Value-driven content or free resources.

If you do not enjoy browsing your own website, neither will your potential customers.

Leverage Social Media to Grow Your Business:

Many construction professionals avoid social media, but in today’s world, that is a mistake. Whether you like it or not, your clients are online, and you need to be where they are.

The key is to find the platform that works best for you. At Elevate Construction, we have found success with:

LinkedIn.
YouTube.
Podcasting.
Blogging.

Building a strong presence on these platforms took time, practice, and learning from experts. If you are new to social media, seek guidance—whether through a LinkedIn boot camp, a YouTube content service, or podcasting support. The best strategy is to focus on adding value. When you provide helpful content rather than focusing solely on selling, potential clients will reach out to you.

Establish Yourself as an Industry Expert:

People trust experts. One of the best ways to build credibility is by sharing your knowledge. Writing a book, starting a podcast, speaking at events, or consistently posting valuable content can help position you as a leader in your field.

For example, I underestimated how difficult writing a book would be, but I also underestimated its impact. “Elevating Construction Superintendents” has helped people understand my expertise, build trust, and ultimately, work with us.

Find a way to showcase your knowledge, whether through blog posts, testimonials, case studies, or educational content.

Build a Sales Funnel That Converts:

Marketing is not just about exposure—it is about guiding potential clients through a journey. Your content should lead them from awareness to action.

A simple marketing funnel includes:

Awareness: Social media, word-of-mouth, books, YouTube.
Engagement: Website, landing pages, blog posts.
Conversion: Calls, consultations, direct services.

If your marketing does not funnel people toward working with you, opportunities may be missed. There is nothing wrong with selling—people need reliable contractors, consultants, and services.

Final Thoughts: Marketing is a Long-Term Game

Marketing does not deliver instant results, but when done right, it builds momentum. The key is to be consistent, add value, and continuously improve.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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CPM or Critical Path Method: How CPM Violates Production Principles

Posted on March 11, 2025March 11, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 6 min

How CPM Violates Production Principles

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is widely used in construction scheduling, but it fundamentally contradicts key production principles. It not only disrupts workflow but also leads to wasted time and resources. Understanding why CPM is flawed is crucial for improving project efficiency.

In the CPM framework, time is placed at the top, deliverables on the left, and activities are sequenced with logic ties. The critical path is identified using an algorithm that determines the longest sequence of tasks. If any activity on this path is delayed, the entire project is affected. While this sounds logical, the approach is deeply flawed. The forward and backward pass calculations compress everything together, violating fundamental production principles and making efficient scheduling nearly impossible.

One of the key issues with CPM is that it ignores Little’s Law, which states that production speed improves when work is done in smaller batches, when tasks are leveled, and when work is completed as it progresses. CPM does not properly zone work and instead organizes schedules by deliverables rather than location. This prevents teams from implementing zoning strategies that could improve workflow. By failing to support small batch sizes, CPM introduces inefficiencies that waste weeks or even months.

CPM also fails to provide a reliable method for leveling work. Instead of ensuring a balanced workload, CPM-based labor analysis often results in peaks and valleys rather than a smooth, consistent flow. It forces teams to start work in multiple areas simultaneously, preventing steady one-piece flow and making it harder to maintain efficiency across a project.

Another major issue is CPM’s inability to manage bottlenecks. Every construction project faces constraints such as slow-moving trades, difficult zones, or other limiting factors. In a properly structured schedule, these bottlenecks are identified and addressed to keep work progressing smoothly. However, CPM does not allow teams to visualize these constraints effectively. Since CPM relies on rigid logic ties rather than a time-by-location format, it prevents teams from seeing where the slowest trade, hardest zone, or most limiting factor is. Without this visibility, it is impossible to optimize workflow.

The law of variation states that as variation increases in a construction schedule, project duration extends. CPM schedules, however, are inherently unstable. Each time a schedule is updated, logic ties shift, creating unpredictability. Project managers often adjust dependencies to accommodate issues, but this continuous change leads to cascading delays. As a result, trade partners experience disruptions, extending project timelines and making efficient scheduling nearly impossible.

CPM goes against everything we know about effective production management. It fails to optimize workflow, level labor efficiently, identify and manage bottlenecks, and reduce variation to keep schedules stable. To improve project efficiency, we need better scheduling methods that align with production principles and respect the natural flow of work.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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9 Keys To Building A Reliable Commercial Construction Subcontractor Network

Posted on March 10, 2025March 10, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 6 min

Nine Keys to Building a Reliable Subcontractor Network

Building a solid subcontractor network isn’t just about process, pre-qualification, or bidding. It’s about selecting the right trade partners—those who align with your values, work ethic, and approach to collaboration. Here are nine key qualities that define a strong, reliable trade partner.

Humble:

A great trade partner is willing to do the hard work alongside you. They don’t put up unnecessary barriers or operate with a closed-door mentality. Instead, they are open, engaged, and committed to solving problems together.

Hungry:

The best trade partners are driven. They are often in that 5-to-15-year range—experienced but still eager to grow. They value their work, remain competitive, and care about their relationships with clients and employees.

Smart:

Smart trade partners are great with people. They communicate effectively, show genuine care, and don’t treat you like just another transaction. They understand that strong relationships lead to better projects.

True Partners:

We don’t want subcontractors who simply fulfill a contract—we want partners. A true partner is willing to teach, learn, and collaborate. They stick with us, work through challenges, and ensure that both sides benefit from the relationship.

Lean-Oriented:

A trade partner must embrace lean construction principles—Takt planning, last planner, scrum, cleanliness, organization, and continuous improvement. They should see lean as a jobsite advantage, not a burden.

Responsive:

Being responsive isn’t about urgency culture—it’s about reliability. A great trade partner answers the phone, engages in meaningful conversations, and is willing to solve problems without unnecessary delays or bureaucracy.

Transparent:

Trust is built on transparency. A strong trade partner is open about their labor, challenges, and needs. They don’t just tell you what’s safe or convenient—they share real information to ensure smooth operations.

Respectful:

Respect extends to both people and processes. The best trade partners don’t run a “turn and burn” operation. They value their workers, respect project structures, and contribute to a healthy jobsite culture.

Contractor Grading System:

At Lean Built, we implement a contractor grading system to ensure consistent quality. We track key performance indicators—crew board usage, cleanliness, punctuality, collaboration, and issue resolution. Only A-level partners get priority for future projects. This approach helps us build a reliable, high-performing network that thrives long-term.

Final Thoughts:

Selecting the right trade partners isn’t just about qualifications—it’s about building relationships that lead to long-term success. By focusing on these nine key traits, you can create a subcontractor network that’s reliable, efficient, and aligned with your goals.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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Commercial Construction Careers In 10 Minutes

Posted on March 8, 2025March 8, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 7 min

Commercial Construction Careers in 10 Minutes

If you’re curious about careers in commercial construction, this blog will break down the key roles, what they do, and why they matter. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Construction Job Titles Across Regions:

Job titles in construction can vary by country. In the U.S., we commonly use Project Manager and Superintendent, while in Europe, these roles are often called Site Manager or Foreman. The Project Manager handles the office side of a project, ensuring everything is in place for success, while the Superintendent oversees field operations, keeping work on schedule and maintaining quality.

Key Roles in Commercial Construction:

Project Manager – Responsible for overseeing the entire project from pre-construction to warranty. They ensure that the team has everything they need, including contracts, materials, tools, equipment, and funding, to complete the job efficiently.

Superintendent – Manages the fieldwork, ensuring trade partners, materials, and schedules are properly coordinated. They focus on long-term planning, logistics, and leading field teams to keep the project moving.

Estimator – Works with trade partners to develop project budgets and cost estimates. Their job is critical in making sure the project stays financially feasible.

Architect – Designs the building, balancing aesthetics, functionality, and constructability. They also ensure the project meets regulatory codes and the client’s needs.

Engineers (Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil) – Each engineering discipline plays a specialized role:

Structural Engineers ensure the stability and integrity of the building.
Mechanical Engineers focus on HVAC and plumbing systems.
Electrical Engineers handle power distribution and lighting.
Civil Engineers manage site infrastructure, utilities, and drainage.

Assistant Superintendent & Assistant Project Manager – Support their respective teams by managing different project areas. Assistant Superintendents focus on field operations, while Assistant Project Managers handle administrative and logistical tasks.

Project Engineer – Works closely with the Project Manager to prepare trade partners for work. They manage RFIs, submittals, subcontractor pay applications, and budgets, ensuring smooth coordination.

Field Engineer – Plays a hands-on role in safety, quality control, surveying, and layout. They enable Foremen by providing lift drawings, survey data, and other technical support to ensure accurate execution.

Foreman – The most experienced worker on a crew, leading the execution of tasks. They coordinate directly with their teams, ensuring work is completed efficiently and to high standards.

Surveyor – Responsible for establishing control points, staking out site elements, and ensuring proper layout for construction. Their expertise is essential for maintaining accuracy on the project.

Safety Manager/Safety Engineer – Supports the team in maintaining compliance with safety regulations. While they play a key advisory role, safety is the responsibility of the entire project team, not just the safety manager.

Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) Specialist – Helps teams visualize and coordinate construction digitally, improving planning and reducing errors before work begins in the field.

Project Director & General Superintendent – Project Directors oversee large-scale projects and manage client relations. General Superintendents supervise multiple projects, ensuring operational excellence across an organization.

The Big Picture:

Each role in construction plays a critical part in delivering a successful project. Project Directors and General Superintendents lead strategy. Project Managers and Superintendents run office and field operations. Assistant roles provide essential support. Engineers, Estimators, and Surveyors ensure technical accuracy and cost control. Field Engineers, VDC Specialists, and Safety Managers keep work organized, efficient, and safe. Foremen and Crew Members execute the work, bringing the entire project to life.

Whether you’re drawn to planning, management, technical work, or hands-on execution, construction offers a variety of career paths suited to different skill sets.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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Why Is Concrete A Popular Commercial Construction Material?

Posted on March 6, 2025March 6, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 7 min

Why Is Concrete a Popular Commercial Construction Material?

Concrete is everywhere in commercial construction, but have you ever wondered why it’s so widely used? Why is it often chosen over steel for certain applications? Why do we rely on it for superstructures instead of other framing materials? Let’s break it down and explore the reasons why concrete remains a favorite in the construction industry.

Historical Significance:

Concrete has a deep historical foundation. It was used in ancient Rome, where structures like the Pantheon and aqueducts still stand today as testaments to its durability. However, modern concrete as we know it was revolutionized in the 19th century with the advent of Portland cement. This new mixture expanded the possibilities for construction, making concrete a staple material in commercial buildings.

Strength & Durability:

One of the biggest reasons concrete is preferred in construction is its exceptional strength and durability. It can withstand heavy loads, resist environmental wear and tear, and maintain its integrity for decades. With advancements in admixtures, engineers can now enhance its properties further, making it even more reliable for large-scale projects.

Fire Resistance:

Concrete provides excellent fire resistance, making it a safer option for buildings. Unlike other materials, it does not emit toxic fumes or weaken significantly under high temperatures. It’s particularly useful for fire-rated partitions, shear walls, and floors, helping to contain fires and protect occupants.

Longevity & Low Maintenance:

Unlike materials that degrade quickly over time, concrete actually gets stronger as it ages. As long as water infiltration is managed properly to prevent reinforcement corrosion, a well-constructed concrete structure can last for generations with minimal maintenance.

Versatility in Design:

Concrete’s versatility is another reason for its popularity. It can be molded into virtually any shape, from straight columns to curved facades. This flexibility allows architects and engineers to design innovative and complex structures that would be difficult to achieve with other materials.

Load-Bearing Capacity:

From skyscrapers to bridges, concrete’s load-bearing capacity is unmatched. It can support immense weight while maintaining stability, making it ideal for structural components like foundations, columns, and slabs. Plus, with continuous innovations in reinforcement techniques and formwork, concrete construction is becoming even more efficient.

Accessibility & Cost-Effectiveness:

Concrete is widely available and cost-effective compared to alternatives like steel. Raw materials such as aggregate and cement are sourced locally in most areas, reducing costs and logistical challenges. Additionally, skilled labor for concrete work is more readily available, further improving its affordability and ease of use.

Environmental Benefits:

Concrete also offers sustainability benefits, including:

Energy Efficiency: Its high thermal mass helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs.
Recyclability: Demolished concrete can be crushed and reused as aggregate for new construction projects.
Durability: Because it lasts longer and requires fewer repairs, it minimizes resource consumption over time.

Aesthetic Appeal:

Beyond its functional benefits, concrete is also a beautiful architectural material. Exposed concrete finishes, decorative columns, and board-formed walls add a unique aesthetic to modern buildings. When combined with materials like glass and wood, concrete can create stunning design elements.

Conclusion:

Concrete is the backbone of commercial construction due to its historical significance, engineering advantages, design flexibility, environmental benefits, and aesthetic appeal. If you want to build a strong foundation in construction, gaining experience with self-performed concrete work is a great place to start.

If you want to learn more we have:

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The Construction Management Profession: Commercial Construction

Posted on March 5, 2025March 5, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 8 min

Why Commercial Construction is an Incredible Career Choice

Commercial construction is more than just an industry—it’s a profession that shapes skylines, builds communities, and offers exciting opportunities for those who love to create something lasting. This blog dives into why commercial construction is such a rewarding career, covering everything from career growth to financial security and teamwork.

Building Iconic Structures:

One of the most fulfilling aspects of commercial construction is the ability to point at a building and say, “I helped build that.” Unlike many professions that deal with intangible results, construction provides a physical legacy. Whether it’s hospitals, airports, or corporate towers, these structures stand as testaments to the work and dedication of construction professionals.

Variety and Constant Learning:

Commercial construction is never repetitive. Each project is unique, offering new challenges and learning experiences. You can work on different building types, master various construction phases, and explore innovative methodologies like lean construction, Takt planning, and last planner systems. The industry continuously evolves, ensuring you are always learning and growing.

Hands-On Work:

For those who enjoy tangible, hands-on work, commercial construction is an ideal field. The experience of being on-site, handling materials, managing equipment, and seeing progress unfold in real time is unmatched. While office-based roles exist, there’s always an opportunity to be actively involved in the building process.

Financial Security:

Unlike residential construction, which fluctuates with market conditions, commercial construction remains relatively stable. Even during economic downturns, the impact on commercial projects is delayed and less severe. The financial rewards are also significant, with professionals earning anywhere from $110,000 to over $500,000 annually, depending on their role and experience level.

Career Growth Opportunities:

The career pathways in commercial construction are vast. You can start as a field engineer, progress to a superintendent or project manager, or specialize in areas like estimating, virtual design and construction (VDC), or preconstruction. The industry offers continuous opportunities for advancement and specialization.

Teamwork and Collaboration:

A well-run commercial construction project thrives on teamwork. In the right company culture, professionals work in collaborative environments, fostering relationships with engineers, designers, trade partners, and clients. From team huddles to project celebrations, the camaraderie in construction is one of its greatest rewards.

Making a Difference in Communities:

Commercial construction is not just about buildings—it’s about impact. Hospitals, laboratories, schools, and infrastructure projects all contribute to society’s well-being. Being part of an industry that builds essential facilities is deeply fulfilling.

A Dynamic Work Environment:

Unlike traditional desk jobs, commercial construction offers a mix of office work and on-site engagement. The ability to work outdoors, experience different locations, and witness a project come to life makes it an exciting career choice.

Expanding Professional Networks:

Construction professionals interact with a diverse range of people, from clients and architects to subcontractors and suppliers. These connections open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and career advancements.

A Passionate and Rewarding Profession:

Many construction professionals, including myself, find deep fulfillment in this industry. While I once considered a career in medicine, I realized that commercial construction allows me to positively impact thousands of lives—just in a different way. By building infrastructure, leading teams, and improving project processes, I can contribute meaningfully to society.

Key Takeaway:

Commercial construction is an exciting, fulfilling, and financially rewarding profession that offers continuous learning, hands-on work, career growth, and the opportunity to build structures that make a lasting impact. Whether you’re drawn to teamwork, financial security, or the ability to shape communities, this industry provides endless opportunities for those ready to dive in.

Join the World of Commercial Construction

At Elevate, LeanTakt, and LeanBuilt, we’re passionate about not just construction but also lean methodologies and operational excellence. We believe in smarter planning, better teamwork, and taking care of people in the industry.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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Key Factors For Choosing A National Commercial Construction General Contractor

Posted on March 4, 2025March 4, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 8 min

How to Choose the Right National Commercial Construction General Contractor

Selecting a general contractor for a national commercial construction project is a high-stakes decision. The right choice leads to smooth execution, while the wrong one results in delays, cost overruns, and frustration. In this blog, we’ll break down the different types of general contractors, their working styles, and how to determine which one aligns with your project’s needs.

Types of General Contractors:

Not all contractors operate the same way. Some prioritize planning and consistency, while others rely on aggressive tactics or flashy innovations. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

The “Wild, Wild West” Contractors:

These contractors somehow grow into massive firms without solid systems for preconstruction planning, project management, or trade coordination. Instead, they rely on hiring experienced individuals to compensate for their lack of structure.

Warning Signs: Minimal planning, inconsistent execution, and over-reliance on trade partners to “figure things out.”

How to Spot Them: Ask trade partners about their experiences. If projects seem chaotic or unpredictable, it’s a red flag.

The “Turn & Burn” Contractors:

Large, high-volume contractors that win projects due to their size and buying power. However, they’re always behind schedule, understaffed, and stuck in reaction mode. They often pay trade partners late and use brute force to push projects forward.

Warning Signs: Constantly firefighting, strained trade relationships, and a reputation for being difficult to work with.

How to Spot Them: Trades often have unflattering nicknames for these companies. Listen carefully to how they describe working with them.

The “Old School Consistent” Contractors:

These contractors might not be the flashiest, but they get the job done. They stick to traditional methods, maintain structured processes, and focus on reliable execution. While they may not be early adopters of new tech or methodologies, they deliver steady results.

Why Choose Them? If you value reliability over innovation, this type is a safe bet.

How to Spot Them: Look for companies with a long-standing reputation for delivering projects on time and within budget, even if they’re not using the latest industry buzzwords.

The “Planners”:

Planning-focused contractors invest time in preconstruction, risk mitigation, and workflow efficiency. They aren’t reactive—they anticipate challenges before they arise. While they may not be the lowest bid, they ensure smoother execution and fewer surprises.

Why Choose Them? They deliver high-quality projects with fewer headaches.

How to Spot Them: They emphasize preconstruction planning and can clearly articulate how they’ll execute your project.

The “Progressives”:

These contractors embrace the latest trends, cutting-edge tools, and modern business models. However, they often lack consistency—some projects run smoothly, while others are chaotic. Their effectiveness depends largely on the specific team assigned to your project.

Warning Signs: Over-reliance on technology without strong foundational processes.

How to Spot Them: If every project they deliver varies drastically in quality, you may be dealing with a progressive but inconsistent firm.

The “Total Package” Contractors:

The rarest breed—these contractors combine planning, consistency, innovation, and strong trade relationships. They invest in training, have structured systems, and always staff their projects adequately. If you find one, you’re working with a top-tier firm that consistently delivers excellence.

Why Choose Them? They balance structure, adaptability, and efficiency, ensuring smooth project execution.

How to Spot Them: Look for companies with well-documented processes, long-term trade partnerships, and a reputation for excellence across multiple projects.

How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Project:

To make the best decision, follow these steps:

Talk to trade partners. They’ll tell you more about a contractor’s real-world performance than any marketing pitch.
Visit current project sites. Seeing a contractor in action will give you a clear picture of how they operate.
Create a scoring system. Develop a list of criteria to evaluate contractors based on your project’s priorities.

Key Takeaway:

Choosing the right national commercial general contractor isn’t just about price—it’s about aligning with a firm that fits your project’s needs. Whether you prioritize planning, consistency, or innovation, evaluating a contractor’s track record, trade partner relationships, and execution style will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure project success.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go

CPM or Critical Path Method: How CPM Disrespects People

Posted on March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 6 min

How CPM Disrespects People in Construction

The Critical Path Method (CPM) has been a widely used scheduling tool in construction, but what if I told you, it fundamentally disrespects people? In this blog, we’re going to break down exactly how CPM fails teams, creates inefficiencies, and ultimately hurts project outcomes.

What is CPM?

CPM structures a project as a sequence of activities tied together with logic. The algorithm determines a “critical path,” meaning any delay in these tasks pushes the entire project timeline. While this may sound effective, the reality is far from it.

The Lack of Collaboration:

One of the biggest flaws of CPM is how it’s created. Instead of being a collaborative effort involving the whole team, it’s often developed in isolation—usually by a scheduler or superintendent. This leads to several issues:

The team lacks visibility into the plan.
There’s no opportunity for fresh eyes to catch errors.
The complexity makes it nearly impossible to understand once there are hundreds of activities.

By removing human input and relying solely on a computer algorithm, CPM strips teams of the ability to create realistic, practical plans.

CPM as a Tool for Control, Not Success:

Another major issue is how CPM schedules are used on-site. Instead of serving as a flexible planning tool, they are often forced upon trade partners with no room for adjustments. Teams are told to follow the plan or face liquidated damages, cure notices, and other penalties.

The problem? CPM schedules have a hit rate of only 15-40%. They aren’t realistic, yet they are used to control, restrict, and even punish teams rather than support them.

The Reality of CPM Scheduling:

When CPM algorithms run their calculations, they artificially compress activities. This results in:

Trade stacking: Multiple trades working in the same space, causing inefficiencies.
Crew burnout: Overloaded schedules that demand excessive overtime.
Material chaos: Excess materials on-site, leading to clutter, damage, and unsafe conditions.
Financial strain: Unnecessary costs for both the project and the trade partners.

What’s worse, CPM doesn’t actually speed up projects. When you push work beyond the capacity of available resources, the project ultimately takes longer—despite all the rushing and scrambling.

A Better Approach:

Rather than relying on CPM, construction teams should focus on flow-based planning. Keeping work in line with trade capacity ensures steady progress, better quality, and a healthier work environment. When planning is collaborative and transparent, everyone benefits—from workers in the field to project owners.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go

Month: March 2025

CPM or Critical Path Method: How CPM Increases WIP

The Ultimate Guide To Managing Commercial Construction Inspections

Commercial Construction Marketing Tips

CPM or Critical Path Method: How CPM Violates Production Principles

9 Keys To Building A Reliable Commercial Construction Subcontractor Network

Commercial Construction Careers In 10 Minutes

Why Is Concrete A Popular Commercial Construction Material?

The Construction Management Profession: Commercial Construction

Key Factors For Choosing A National Commercial Construction General Contractor

CPM or Critical Path Method: How CPM Disrespects People

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The Foundation of Construction Excellence

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