Takt Steering & Control Book – Roadblocks

How to Keep Construction Flowing Smoothly

In construction, projects don’t usually fail because of one massive mistake they fail because of dozens of small, predictable roadblocks that disrupt flow. Recognizing and removing these roadblocks before they derail progress is one of the most powerful skills a builder can develop.

Below are some of the most common roadblocks and how to address them:

Weather

Heavy rain, snow, wind, extreme heat, and other conditions can delay or halt work. Just like a train must adjust its speed during storms, construction crews must adapt plans around weather challenges.

Changes to the Plan

Design revisions, scope changes, client requests, or code updates all create disruptions. While preplanning prevents many of these issues, sometimes changes are unavoidable. The key is to identify them early and adjust.

Lack of Planning

Rushing without proper planning leads to panic, wasted effort, and poor results. Time invested upfront in planning scope, logistics, safety, and coordination saves far more time later.

Work Area Not Ready

Crews can’t perform if access isn’t prepared. Incomplete work, inspection delays, hazards, or unresolved issues stall progress. Ensuring readiness keeps flow steady.

Permissions Needed

Permits, safety approvals, and agreements must be secured ahead of time. Without them, the “train of trades” comes to a stop.

Layout Not Ready

Accurate grid lines, benchmarks, and control points must be established. Without layout, work stalls and rework increases.

Failed Inspections

Poorly prepared inspections cause costly re-inspections. Internal reviews, clear communication with inspectors, and compliance checks keep projects moving.

Obstructions on Site

Debris, equipment, or materials in the wrong place block crews. Constant scanning and proper staging prevent unnecessary delays.

Defects

Poor quality or damaged materials slow the job. Skilled labor, proper handling, and frequent inspections minimize rework.

Missing Information

Unclear drawings, RFIs, or missing procedures leave crews guessing. Information must be verified before work begins.

Missing Resources

Crews without proper materials, tools, or utilities can’t perform. Tools don’t cost you money wasted labor hours do.

Equipment Issues

Breakdowns, calibration errors, or worn out machines cause downtime. Regular maintenance and preparation reduce failures.

Labor Shortages

Lack of trained workers can cripple schedules. Preconstruction planning, early recruiting, and training build capacity.

Site Conditions

Poor drainage, soil issues, or blocked access must be managed proactively. Clear pathways and site organization ensure smoother progress.

Seeing Roadblocks Early

Nicholas Modig and Pär Åhlström, in This is Lean, highlight that flow is disrupted by variation, stops, and restarts. Roadblocks create all three.

The solution is to see roadblocks before they happen. Use photos, drone footage, and team observation to increase awareness. Think like a lifeguard scanning a pool constantly watching, constantly anticipating. The more you practice scanning your site, the better you’ll forecast and remove obstacles before they slow you down.

Key Takeaway

Construction roadblocks whether from weather, missing resources, poor planning, or failed inspections are predictable and preventable. By training yourself and your team to continuously scan the environment, identify issues early, and remove them quickly, you protect flow, minimize delays, and elevate the entire construction experience.