CPM or Critical Path Method: Why CPM Is Not Lean

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Why the Critical Path Method (CPM) Is Not Lean

The Critical Path Method (CPM) has been widely taught and used in construction scheduling, but is it really the best approach? In this blog, we’ll explore why CPM is not lean, how it creates inefficiencies, and what you should consider instead.

What Is CPM?

If you’ve studied construction management, you’ve likely come across CPM. It’s a scheduling method where tasks are logic-tied, and an algorithm determines the longest sequence of dependent activities—the “critical path.” If any of these activities are delayed, the entire project is impacted.

On paper, it sounds reasonable. In practice, it’s a disaster.

The Flaws of CPM:

CPM is fundamentally flawed because:

  • It compresses everything together – This increases work in progress (WIP) beyond the system’s capacity.
  • It lacks buffers – The schedule is unrealistic from day one.
  • It forces trade stacking – Overlapping work leads to inefficiencies and safety risks.
  • It collapses under pressure – When delays happen (and they always do), logic ties dissolve, and teams scramble.

At the end of a project, CPM usually results in last-minute panic, overtime, and rushed work—none of which align with lean construction principles.

Why CPM Is Not Lean:

Lean construction is built on six key principles, and CPM fails in every category:

  1. Respect for People:

CPM disrespects teams by:

  • Making schedules unreadable and unmanageable.
  • Imposing unrealistic deadlines on trade partners.
  • Forcing trades into unproductive, high-pressure situations.
  1. Stability:

A lean system is stable, predictable, and standardized. CPM creates chaos by:

  • Pushing teams to work in multiple areas at once.
  • Failing to provide a steady, reliable workflow.
  1. One Process Flow:

Lean emphasizes completing one process at a time before moving on. CPM disrupts this by:

  • Forcing trades to start multiple tasks without finishing them.
  • Ignoring trade flow and proper crew assignments.
  1. Flow:

Work should move in a predictable rhythm, but CPM:

  • Ignores time-by-location planning.
  • Fails to protect trade flow.
  • Doesn’t allow teams to move efficiently from one zone to the next.
  1. Total Participation with Visual Systems:

Lean systems rely on visual tools that everyone can understand. CPM:

  • Is a wall of text that no one can read.
  • Creates schedules that even the scheduler struggles to follow.
  • Excludes trade partners from effective planning.
  1. Continuous Improvement:

Lean thrives on feedback and refinement. CPM stifles improvement by:

  • Hiding inefficiencies in complex logic ties.
  • Relying on reactive measures like crashing schedules and working overtime.

The Bottom Line:

No matter how you analyze it—through lean principles, Theory of Constraints, or Toyota’s 14 Principles—CPM fails the test. It’s not a lean system. It’s outdated, inefficient, and needs to be replaced with better planning methods.

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.

 

 

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Managing Commercial Lead Times

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Managing Commercial Lead Times: Key Strategies for Success

Managing commercial lead times is critical for keeping construction projects on track. Delays in procurement can cause costly setbacks, so having a solid plan is essential. This blog covers five key strategies to help streamline procurement and ensure materials arrive on time.

  1. Develop a Takt Plan as Early as Possible:

The first and most crucial step is creating a macro-level Takt plan for the project as soon as possible. This plan should define the start and end dates, map out the path of critical flow, outline optimization strategies, and establish when materials need to be on-site. With a well-defined Takt plan, procurement efforts can align with the construction schedule, reducing risks and delays.

  1. Maintain a Real-Time Procurement Log:

A well-structured procurement log is essential for tracking material lead times. This log should include required on-site dates, built-in buffers for potential delays, and the full procurement timeline, including submittal processing, fabrication, and delivery. AI tools can help generate submittal registers based on building type and historical data. Todd Zabelle, in Built to Fail, emphasizes the importance of verifying supplier lead times rather than taking them at face value. The supply chain should adapt to project needs rather than the other way around.

  1. Start Procurement Efforts Immediately:

One of the most common mistakes in construction is waiting too long to start procurement. As soon as a project is secured, procurement efforts must begin. Some large projects fail to launch on time simply because buyout and procurement were delayed. Early engagement ensures that materials arrive when needed and minimizes last-minute disruptions.

  1. Conduct Weekly Procurement Meetings:

Procurement must be actively managed through weekly strategic planning meetings. These meetings should monitor procurement progress in real time, identify potential delays early, and trigger corrective actions when necessary. There are numerous strategies to expedite procurement, including concurrent design reviews, splitting orders, and accelerating shipments. Staying proactive is the key to avoiding costly delays.

  1. Keep Critical Procurement Items Highly Visible:

Long-lead procurement items, such as switchgear, must remain a top priority throughout the project. Adding buffers and maintaining clear visibility of these items ensures that all stakeholders—the design team, the owner, and project leadership—stay informed and engaged. A general superintendent once advised, “Never fall asleep on procurement timelines.” Keeping a constant focus on these items is essential for preventing major project delays.

By following these five strategies, commercial lead times can be shortened, surprises minimized, and projects kept on schedule

Effective procurement management is not just about tracking materials—it is about maintaining control over the entire project timeline.

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.

 

 

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Overview Of Principles And Practices Of Commercial Construction

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The Core Values of Commercial Construction

Commercial construction isn’t just about building structures—it’s about upholding a set of principles that define excellence, teamwork, and respect. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that this industry operates on a unique foundation that sets it apart. In this blog, I’ll break down the essential values that drive commercial construction and why they matter.

  1. Integrity & Transparency:

Integrity is at the core of everything in commercial construction—whether it’s safety, contract execution, or teamwork. Transparency is equally crucial because without open communication, projects fall apart. Successful construction projects depend on a culture of trust, honesty, and accountability between trade partners, general contractors, and designers.

  1. Safety First:

Safety isn’t just a slogan—it’s a non-negotiable priority. Commercial construction sites enforce strict safety protocols, from PPE requirements to fall protection and clean job sites. A strong safety culture protects workers, improves productivity, and ensures long-term success.

  1. Quality & Excellence:

Unlike some residential projects where issues get hidden behind walls, commercial construction demands high standards. Internal quality control processes, thorough inspections, and a commitment to doing things right the first time set commercial projects apart. If something isn’t up to standard, we fix it—no compromises.

  1. Collaboration & Teamwork:

A successful project requires seamless coordination between designers, general contractors, and trade partners. The best projects foster a culture where people help each other, share resources, and solve problems together. Teamwork isn’t just an expectation—it’s a necessity.

  1. Client-Centered Focus:

Commercial construction isn’t a manufacturing process where we sell pre-made products. We’re a customer service industry, delivering exactly what the client wants, how they want it. Transparency, communication, and responsiveness to client needs are fundamental to every successful project.

  1. Innovation & Adaptability:

Construction is constantly evolving. From prefabrication to new materials and robotics, we’re always seeking ways to improve efficiency, quality, and sustainability. Embracing innovation helps us deliver projects faster, at lower costs, and with better outcomes.

  1. Sustainability:

The industry has made huge strides in sustainability, from reducing waste to creating Net Zero buildings. Many times, it’s the power companies slowing down progress, not the contractors! Sustainable construction practices are now a standard, not an exception.

  1. Respect for People & Resources:

One of the biggest issues in commercial construction is outdated project management methods—especially CPM (Critical Path Method). CPM increases work in progress beyond resource capacity, leading to inefficiencies and burnout. True respect for people means managing workflows effectively, avoiding unnecessary pressure, and ensuring every worker has what they need to succeed.

Final Thoughts:

These core values define the heart of commercial construction. If we hold onto them, we’ll continue to push the industry forward, improve working conditions, and deliver outstanding projects. Let’s commit to upholding these principles and making commercial construction the best it can be.

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.

 

 

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CPM or Critical Path Method: How CPM Increases WIP

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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:

  1. No Buffers in the Critical Path – With zero float, delays are inevitable, yet there’s no flexibility built into the schedule.
  2. Early Start Mentality – Everything is set to start as soon as possible, overwhelming trade partners.
  3. Large Batch Areas – Work is scheduled in massive chunks rather than properly zoned sequences.
  4. Trade Stacking – Too many trades are forced to work in the same area at the same time.
  5. 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.

 

 

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The Ultimate Guide To Managing Commercial Construction Inspections

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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:

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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:

-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.

 

 

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Commercial Construction Marketing Tips

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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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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:

-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.

 

 

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CPM or Critical Path Method: How CPM Violates Production Principles

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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:

-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.

 

 

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9 Keys To Building A Reliable Commercial Construction Subcontractor Network

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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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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:

-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.

 

 

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Commercial Construction Careers In 10 Minutes

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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:

-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

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