How To Reduce Errors And Increase Quality Of Work

Read 6 min

In the construction industry, ensuring quality work is paramount to success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key strategies and practices to reduce errors, enhance productivity, and deliver exceptional results on construction projects. 

  1. Understanding Quality Expectations:

Quality work begins with a clear understanding of the expectations set by project owners and regulatory authorities. Gather information from plans, specifications, and direct communication with stakeholders to define quality standards. Engage with owners to uncover their specific preferences and priorities, ensuring alignment with project goals.

  1. Simplifying Quality Management:

Quality management doesn’t have to be complex. Avoid lengthy manuals and intricate processes. Instead, focus on simplicity and clarity. Ensure that every member of the team understands the quality expectations and can effectively implement them on the job site.

  1. Conducting Pre-Construction Meetings:

Pre-construction meetings play a crucial role in setting the stage for quality work. Schedule these meetings three weeks before work begins and ensure that key personnel, such as superintendents and foremen, are present. Review project plans, safety protocols, and quality requirements to align everyone’s understanding and expectations.

  1. Utilizing Visual Work Boards:

Visual aids are powerful tools for communicating quality standards on the job site. Create visual work boards or checklists that outline specific quality requirements in a clear and concise manner. Make these tools easily accessible to all workers and ensure they are prominently displayed in work areas.

  1. Implementing Morning Worker Huddles:

Start each workday with brief morning huddles to discuss the day’s plan and objectives. Use this time to reinforce quality expectations and address any concerns or questions from the team. Ensure that every crew leader has access to quality checklists or visual aids to guide their work throughout the day.

  1. Establishing Zone Control Walks:

Zone control walks enable proactive quality management by inspecting work areas regularly. Superintendents and foremen should conduct daily or weekly inspections to ensure work meets quality standards before completion. Encourage open communication and collaboration between project leaders and crew members during these inspections.

  1. Creating a Culture of Quality:

Foster a culture of quality within your organization by encouraging open dialogue, continuous improvement, and accountability. Celebrate successes and address any quality issues promptly and constructively. Emphasize the importance of delivering quality work on every project and instill a sense of pride in craftsmanship among your team members.

Conclusion:

By following these essential steps, construction teams can significantly improve the quality of their work and achieve greater success on projects. Remember, quality is not just a system—it’s a mindset and a commitment to excellence in everything we do. Start implementing these strategies today and watch your projects thrive.

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!

How Do You Organize And Start Employee Training Programs?

Read 7 min

Employee training programs are not just a luxury but a necessity for any forward-thinking organization. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to create remarkable training programs that drive excellence and empower your team members. 

  1. Understanding the Need:

Every company requires exceptional training programs to foster growth, efficiency, and innovation. Gone are the days of dull, uninspiring training sessions. Field Verified, a company known for its exemplary training programs, serves as a shining example of what’s possible. By investing in training, companies can elevate performance, cultivate a culture of excellence, and achieve remarkable results.

  1. Gathering Data:

Start by asking your team members what training they need. Conduct surveys, hold open meetings, and encourage honest feedback. Additionally, seek input from supervisors and observe common challenges in the workplace. By gathering data directly from the front lines, you’ll gain valuable insights into the training needs of your organization.

  1. Identifying Common Problems:

Assess the most common difficulties faced by your team, whether it’s related to profitability, retention, quality, or customer service. Visit project sites, interact with workers, and gather real-world data to pinpoint areas for improvement. Understanding the challenges your team faces is crucial for designing effective training programs.

  1. Knowing Your Audience:

Develop a deep understanding of your audience—the individuals who will participate in the training programs. Consider their preferences, learning styles, and job roles. Create detailed profiles, such as Field Verified’s “Eric,” to tailor your training content to their needs effectively. Knowing your audience ensures that your training programs resonate and deliver tangible results.

  1. Choosing the Right Method:

Select a training delivery method that aligns with your organization’s culture and goals. Whether it’s interactive workshops, video modules, or hands-on simulations, choose a method that engages your audience and maximizes learning retention. Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for your team.

  1. Leveraging Influencers:

Identify influential individuals within your organization—those who command respect and influence others’ opinions. Engage these influencers in the development of your training programs to ensure buy-in and support from the entire team. Their endorsement can significantly impact the success of your training initiatives.

  1. Developing an Outline:

Create a comprehensive outline outlining the major topics and objectives of your training programs. Collaborate with influencers and subject matter experts to ensure that the content addresses key challenges and learning objectives. A well-structured outline serves as a roadmap for creating impactful training content.

  1. Creating Content:

With a solid outline in place, begin developing the content for your training programs. Leverage various resources, including videographers, audio specialists, and content creators, to bring your training material to life. Focus on delivering engaging, informative content that resonates with your audience and drives learning outcomes.

  1. Establishing Efficient Systems:

Streamline the content creation process by implementing efficient systems and workflows. Invest in tools and technologies that simplify recording, editing, and distributing training content. Minimize friction and maximize productivity to ensure smooth operations throughout the training development process.

  1. Testing and Iterating:

Deploy a pilot version of your training program to a small group of participants and gather feedback. Use this feedback to identify areas for improvement and iterate on your training content accordingly. Continuously refine and enhance your training programs based on real-world insights and user feedback.

Conclusion:

By following these steps, you can create employee training programs that drive operational excellence, foster continuous improvement, and empower your team members to reach their full potential. Investing in training is not just an expense but a strategic investment in the future success of your organization. Start building remarkable training programs today and unlock the full potential of your team.

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!

What Is Lean Planning?

Read 6 min

Lean planning is more than just organizing tasks; it’s a philosophy rooted in respect, efficiency, and continuous improvement. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the core principles of lean planning and how they can transform your approach to project management. 

  1. Respect for People & Resources:

At the heart of lean planning lies a deep respect for both the individuals involved and the resources utilized. Ask yourself: Are your plans designed to prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of your team members? Do they optimize the use of resources while minimizing waste? Lean planning begins with valuing people and their contributions, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.

  1. Creating Stability & Flow:

Effective planning should aim to create stability and flow throughout the project lifecycle. Whether you’re using takt planning, CPM scheduling, or other methodologies, the goal remains the same: to streamline workflows, minimize disruptions, and optimize productivity. By identifying and addressing bottlenecks, you can ensure a smooth and efficient execution process, ultimately enhancing project outcomes.

  1. Total Participation Through Visual Systems:

Total participation is essential for the success of lean planning initiatives. Every member of the project team should be actively engaged and empowered to contribute to the planning process. Visual systems, such as pull planning boards or digital dashboards, can facilitate clear communication and alignment of objectives. Ensure that plans are communicated effectively to all stakeholders, from project managers to frontline workers, fostering a shared understanding and commitment to success.

  1. Quality & Continuous Improvement Based on Customer Needs:

Quality and continuous improvement are non-negotiable aspects of lean planning. Does your planning process prioritize meeting customer needs and expectations? Are clear standards and expectations communicated to all team members? Lean planning encourages a proactive approach to quality management, empowering individuals to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions collaboratively. By continuously refining processes and delivering value to customers, lean organizations can stay ahead of the curve in a competitive market.

Why Lean Planning Matters:

In an industry where efficiency and effectiveness are paramount, lean planning offers a path to sustainable success. By embracing principles of respect, stability, participation, and continuous improvement, organizations can unlock their full potential and deliver exceptional results. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or new to lean methodologies, adopting a lean approach to planning can drive meaningful change and drive project success.

Conclusion:

Lean planning isn’t just about ticking boxes on a checklist; it’s a mindset—a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. As you embark on your lean planning journey, remember to keep the principles of respect, stability, participation, and quality at the forefront of your efforts. By doing so, you’ll not only optimize project outcomes but also cultivate a culture of innovation and collaboration that sets your organization apart. Let’s plan lean and pave the way for a brighter future in construction management.

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!

How To Be A Good Leader To Your Employees

Read 6 min

In the realm of leadership, there’s a profound truth often overlooked: true leaders don’t just create followers; they cultivate other leaders. In this blog post, we’ll explore the six crucial steps to becoming an outstanding leader, from fostering a culture of mentorship to embracing vulnerability and connection. 

  1. Cultivate Leaders:

Leadership isn’t about commanding from the top; it’s about empowering others to lead. As Gino Wickman aptly puts it, “You’re not a leader until a leader you’ve trained has trained a leader.” True leadership perpetuates itself through mentorship and guidance, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and growth.

  1. Define Your Vision and Values:

A leader without a vision is like a ship without a compass. Clarify your mission, values, and goals, and lead with unwavering integrity. Your vision should inspire and guide your team, fostering alignment and purpose.

  1. Influence and Connection:

At its core, leadership is about influence. Cultivate meaningful connections with your team by being authentic, transparent, and open to vulnerability. True leaders build trust and rapport, leveraging their influence for the greater good.

  1. Embrace Vulnerability:

Contrary to popular belief, vulnerability is not a sign of weakness; it’s a catalyst for connection and growth. Open yourself up to genuine interactions, sharing both successes and struggles. Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability is a valuable resource for aspiring leaders.

  1. Foster Relevance and Connection:

Make your team feel valued and empowered by fostering relevance and emotional connection. Take the time to understand their needs, aspirations, and challenges, and provide support and recognition accordingly. Authentic leadership is rooted in genuine care and empathy.

  1. People First, Tasks Second:

Ultimately, leadership is about people, not tasks. Great leaders prioritize the well-being and development of their team members, elevating them to new heights of success. Whether you’re leading a project or a company, remember that people come first.

In Conclusion:

Leadership is not a title; it’s a calling—a mission to build people who build great things. By embracing mentorship, vision, influence, vulnerability, and empathy, you can unlock your full potential as a leader. Take the time to reflect on your leadership style, leveraging the provided checklist to evaluate your strengths and areas for growth.

As you embark on your leadership journey, remember that true fulfillment lies in moving people forward—to progress, fulfillment, and success. Lead with purpose, integrity, and compassion, and watch as your impact transforms lives and organizations. Onward, to greater heights of leadership excellence.

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!

What Is Field Engineering?

Read 7 min

In the vast world of construction, amidst towering structures and intricate designs, lies a role often overlooked yet indispensable: field engineering. Picture it as the backbone of the construction industry, the unsung hero behind every successful project. But what exactly is field engineering, and why is it so crucial?  

Field engineering is the frontline of construction, where theory meets practice, plans meet reality, and innovation meets execution. It’s the art of translating blueprints into tangible structures, ensuring precision, safety, and quality every step of the way. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the essence of field engineering, its transformative power, and why every company should embrace it wholeheartedly.

Understanding Field Engineering: A Primer

At its core, field engineering is about bridging the gap between design and implementation. It involves on-site surveying, layout, and coordination, serving as the linchpin between project vision and practical execution. Field engineers are the architects of the construction site, overseeing everything from safety protocols to quality control.

But why is field engineering so revered? For starters, it’s a breeding ground for future leaders in construction. Many seasoned superintendents trace their roots back to field engineering, citing it as the foundation of their expertise. The journey from field engineer to superintendent is not just a career progression; it’s a transformational experience that imbues individuals with invaluable skills and insights.

The Journey to Superintendent: A Path Paved by Field Engineering

In a study conducted within a prominent construction company, a fascinating pattern emerged. Superintendents who had undergone field engineering training exhibited a remarkable trajectory in their careers, swiftly ascending the ranks with confidence and competence. In contrast, those who bypassed field engineering found themselves stagnating, lacking essential skills and perspectives.

Field engineering isn’t merely about laying bricks or pouring concrete; it’s about instilling a mindset of excellence, adaptability, and foresight. By immersing themselves in the intricacies of field operations, aspiring leaders cultivate a holistic understanding of construction, setting the stage for long-term success.

Dispelling Misconceptions: Why Every Company Needs Field Engineers

Some may argue that field engineering is obsolete in the age of digital innovation, but nothing could be further from the truth. Field engineers serve as the custodians of construction, ensuring that every aspect—from surveying to safety—is meticulously managed. They are the guardians of quality, the architects of efficiency, and the mentors of future builders.

Investing in field engineering isn’t just about short-term gains; it’s about cultivating a legacy of excellence. By nurturing a culture of field engineering within their ranks, companies can unlock untapped potential, groom future leaders, and elevate the standard of construction industry-wide.

Embracing the Future: The Imperative of Field Engineering Programs

In today’s fast-paced world, where speed often takes precedence over substance, it’s easy to overlook the foundational principles of construction. But to truly thrive in the long run, companies must invest in the future of their workforce. Field engineering programs aren’t just about training individuals; they’re about shaping a generation of builders, innovators, and leaders.

So, as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of construction, let’s not forget the humble yet mighty role of field engineering. Let’s champion its cause, nurture its practitioners, and pave the way for a future where every project is a testament to excellence. Together, let’s build a brighter tomorrow, one field engineer at a time.

 

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!

Building Multi-Family Ground Up

Read 4 min

Are you a multi-family developer or builder looking to optimize your construction process? If so, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll delve into the best practices for multi-family construction, covering everything from scheduling systems to leveraging your superpowers effectively. So, let’s dive in! 

  1. Takt Planning: A Game-Changer for Multi-Family Projects
    • Takt planning isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a powerful tool, especially for multi-family construction.
    • By implementing takt planning, you can optimize your scheduling and increase productivity significantly.
    • Identify the right zoning strategy for your project to maximize efficiency and minimize construction duration.
  2. Leveraging Repetition for Improved Flow
    • Repetition is your superpower in multi-family construction.
    • Prefabrication and kitting are key strategies to leverage the repetitive nature of building.
    • Focus on leveling trades and maintaining a consistent flow to ensure optimal productivity.
  3. Zone Control Walks: Maintaining Flow Through Handoffs
    • Zone control walks are essential for ensuring smooth handoffs between construction zones.
    • By managing handoffs effectively, you can minimize delays and maintain project flow.
    • Implementing a robust huddle system is crucial for coordinating schedules and communication among team members.
  4. Key Takeaways for Success
    • Break your project into zones, leverage takt planning, and optimize scheduling for maximum efficiency.
    • Embrace repetition, use prefab techniques, and maintain flow through effective zone control walks.
    • Collaborate with experts to implement these strategies and maximize the success of your multi-family projects.

In conclusion, mastering multi-family construction requires a combination of strategic planning, efficient scheduling, and effective communication. By implementing the techniques outlined in this blog, you can streamline your construction process, minimize delays, and maximize profitability. Ready to take your multi-family projects to the next level? Contact us today and let’s make it happen!

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!

How To Manage Workers On A Construction Site

Read 7 min

Introduction: Welcome to our latest blog post where we delve into the art of managing workers on a construction site. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key aspects of effective worker management and provide you with actionable steps to enhance productivity, morale, and overall project success. 

Understanding Worker Management in Construction: Before diving into the seven essential steps, it’s crucial to redefine what it means to manage workers in the construction industry. Contrary to common belief, managing workers doesn’t entail micromanaging every aspect of their work. Instead, it revolves around three core elements:

  1. Treating Workers Well: Prioritize how workers are treated, setting the tone for a positive work environment.
  2. Setting Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate project expectations and standards to foster clarity and accountability.
  3. Cultivating Relationships: Build strong, respectful relationships with workers to promote collaboration and mutual respect.

Step 1: Providing a Stellar Orientation Experience: The journey towards effective worker management begins with a remarkable orientation process. A well-planned orientation sets the tone for the entire project, demonstrating that workers are valued members of the team. From ensuring smooth onboarding to providing a warm welcome, every detail matters in creating a positive first impression.

Step 2: Ensuring Great On-Site Conditions: Next, prioritize providing excellent on-site conditions for your workers. From clean and safe workspaces to well-equipped facilities, creating a conducive environment is essential for worker satisfaction and productivity. Remember, a happy worker is a productive worker.

Step 3: Maintaining Open Communication Channels: Communication is the cornerstone of effective worker management. Daily huddles offer an opportunity to connect with workers, address concerns, and foster a sense of belonging. By maintaining open lines of communication, leaders can build trust and strengthen relationships with their team.

Step 4: Delivering Remarkable Experiences: Go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for your workers. Whether it’s hosting barbecues, recognizing achievements, or providing small tokens of appreciation, these gestures show that their hard work is valued and appreciated.

Step 5: Setting Clear Expectations: Clarity is key when it comes to setting expectations for your workers. Provide clear guidelines, standards, and training to ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. By eliminating ambiguity, you empower your team to perform at their best.

Step 6: Providing the Right Resources: Equip your workers with the tools, equipment, and training they need to succeed. Whether it’s safety training, access to the right tools, or ongoing skill development, investing in your workers’ growth and development is essential for long-term success.

Step 7: Nurturing Strong Relationships: Finally, focus on nurturing strong relationships with your workers. Show genuine care and appreciation, lead by example, and prioritize their well-being. By building trust and rapport, you create a positive work culture where everyone feels valued and respected.

In Conclusion: Managing workers in the construction industry is more than just overseeing tasks—it’s about cultivating a supportive, inclusive, and productive work environment. By prioritizing worker well-being, setting clear expectations, and fostering meaningful relationships, construction leaders can unlock the full potential of their teams and achieve project success.

Remember, at the heart of effective worker management lies a simple principle: be human. Treat your workers with kindness, respect, and empathy, and watch as your team thrives. Here’s to building stronger, more resilient construction teams, one relationship at a time.

Don’t forget to check out our linked resources below for further insights and actionable tips on mastering worker management in construction. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards building better workplaces and stronger teams. On we Go!

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!

What Is An Organizational Health Assessment?

Read 4 min

An organizational health assessment is a tool used to evaluate the overall health and functioning of a team or organization. It helps identify strengths and weaknesses in key areas that contribute to team effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of the process and its benefits: 

  1. Key Behaviors of a Team: An effective team must demonstrate five key behaviors: trust, healthy conflict, commitment to goals and standards, mutual accountability, and high performance.
  2. Assessment Process: The organizational health assessment, such as the one offered by the Table Group, typically involves a survey or questionnaire administered to team members. This assessment gathers feedback on various aspects of team dynamics, communication, and collaboration.
  3. Analyzing Results: The assessment generates a report that highlights areas of strength and areas needing improvement based on the responses gathered. It provides actionable insights into how the team can enhance its performance and functioning.
  4. Implementing Solutions: Once the assessment results are analyzed, leaders can develop strategies and action plans to address areas of weakness and capitalize on strengths. This may involve team training, coaching, process improvements, or changes in communication protocols.
  5. Continuous Improvement: Organizational health assessments are not a one-time event but rather an ongoing process. Teams can conduct assessments periodically to track progress, measure improvements, and ensure continued alignment with organizational goals.
  6. Benefits: Using an organizational health assessment can lead to improved team dynamics, enhanced communication, increased productivity, and greater overall effectiveness. It provides a structured framework for addressing issues and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organization.

Overall, an organizational health assessment is a valuable tool for any team or organization looking to optimize its performance and achieve its goals. By identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted solutions, teams can strengthen their cohesion, productivity, and 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!

What Is Pull Planning In Construction?

Read 4 min

Pull planning in construction is a collaborative scheduling method that takes a reverse approach to sequencing. It involves gathering multiple team players, preferably last planners, to identify a key milestone and then create a sequence backwards from that milestone. The sequence identifies durations and relationships based on needs, resulting in a detailed pull plan that guides the project. 

Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved in pull planning:

  1. Trigger: Identify the need for a pull plan triggered by project milestones or phases.
  2. Planning: Clearly define the milestone, invite key participants, and ensure they’re prepared.
  3. Gathering: Bring all participants together and orient them before the pull planning session.
  4. Pre-Meeting: Allow participants time to finalize their preparation before the pull planning session begins.
  5. Pull Planning Process:
    • Define conditions of satisfaction.
    • Review milestones (both start and end).
    • Identify sticky note format, including duration, crew count, activity, and needs.
    • Assign colors to participants for easy identification.
    • Establish ground rules for the pull planning session.
    • Populate the sequence backwards based on needs, not just sequence number.
    • Parallelize activities to optimize the sequence.
  1. Follow-Up: Decide how to use the pull plan data—whether for weekly work plans, CPM schedule adjustments, or takt planning. Ensure the plan is shared with all relevant stakeholders and close the meeting with a summary of decisions made.

Key tips for successful pull planning include setting ground rules to maintain order and following the prescribed system to populate the sequence based on needs. With proper execution, pull planning can result in a more accurate sequence, increased buy-in from trades, and improved confidence in achieving project milestones.

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!

How To Improve Your Communication As A Construction Project Manager

Read 6 min
As a construction project manager, your life is undoubtedly complex. Juggling multiple projects, overseeing teams, and managing deadlines can quickly become overwhelming. However, effective communication is the key to navigating this chaos and achieving success. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical steps to enhance your communication skills and streamline your workflow.

Understanding the Challenges

The life of a project manager is inherently chaotic, often overseeing multiple projects simultaneously. To thrive in this environment, it’s essential to address communication challenges head-on and implement strategies to streamline the process.

Steps to Enhance Communication

1. Personal Organization System

Maintaining clarity in your own life is crucial for effective communication. Invest in a personal organization system, such as planners and time-blocking techniques, to manage tasks efficiently and prioritize responsibilities.

2. Team Balance and Health

Ensure proper coverage for your team by establishing a coverage schedule and conducting regular team meetings to plan coverage and address project needs. Creating a culture that values work-life balance fosters a healthier and more productive work environment.

3. Utilize Diverse Communication Channels

Move beyond traditional email communication and leverage various channels such as face-to-face interactions, meetings, virtual meetings, phone calls, texts, and messaging apps like WhatsApp and Microsoft Teams. Choose the most appropriate channel based on the urgency and nature of the communication to streamline the process and avoid email overload.

4. Sequence Communication Effectively

Organize communication channels and meetings in a logical sequence that promotes flow and efficiency. Time-block meetings and interactions to consolidate communication efforts and minimize disruptions to your workflow.

Key Considerations

  • Make all communication visual to enhance clarity and comprehension.
  • Prioritize frictionless communication channels to minimize unnecessary effort.
  • Be prepared to repeat information multiple times to ensure understanding and alignment among team members.
  • As a leader, scaling communication is essential for team success. Invest in designing effective communication systems to facilitate collaboration and productivity.

Resources for Improvement

To help you assess and improve your communication systems, we’ve provided an audit form in the description below. Take advantage of these resources to analyze your current practices and explore options for enhancement.

Conclusion

Effective communication is the cornerstone of success for construction project managers. By implementing these strategies and leveraging diverse communication channels, you can navigate the complexities of project management with confidence and achieve your goals. Remember, investing in communication is investing in your 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!