admin, Author at Elevate Constructionist

Building Multi-Family Ground Up

Posted on May 6, 2024May 6, 2024 by admin

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!

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.
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.
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.
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

Posted on May 2, 2024May 2, 2024 by admin

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:

Treating Workers Well: Prioritize how workers are treated, setting the tone for a positive work environment.
Setting Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate project expectations and standards to foster clarity and accountability.
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:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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What Is An Organizational Health Assessment?

Posted on May 2, 2024May 2, 2024 by admin

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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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What Is Pull Planning In Construction?

Posted on May 2, 2024May 2, 2024 by admin

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:

Trigger: Identify the need for a pull plan triggered by project milestones or phases.
Planning: Clearly define the milestone, invite key participants, and ensure they’re prepared.
Gathering: Bring all participants together and orient them before the pull planning session.
Pre-Meeting: Allow participants time to finalize their preparation before the pull planning session begins.
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.

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:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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How To Improve Your Communication As A Construction Project Manager

Posted on May 2, 2024May 2, 2024 by admin

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:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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How To Improve Work-Life Balance For Employees

Posted on May 2, 2024May 2, 2024 by admin

Read 5 min

Are your employees feeling overburdened and struggling to maintain a healthy work-life balance? In this blog post, we’re going to delve into practical strategies that can help create more capacity for your team and foster a healthier work environment.

Understanding Burnout

It’s inevitable that at some point, your employees may experience burnout. However, it’s crucial to address this issue proactively rather than reactively. Often, the solution lies not in acquiring more resources but in implementing effective strategies and fostering a culture of efficiency.

Importance of Personal Organization

Personal organization is key to managing workload effectively. Providing your team with tools and training in personal organization systems can significantly improve their productivity and reduce stress. Encourage the use of planners and teach them how to prioritize tasks effectively.

Developing a Team Balance & Health Strategy

Creating a culture that values work-life balance requires proactive planning and communication. Implementing a coverage board to manage schedules, conducting weekly team meetings to plan coverage, and promoting open discussions about balancing work and personal commitments are essential steps.

Leveraging Technology

Technology can be a powerful tool in streamlining workflows and reducing workload. Evaluate whether the technology your team is using is actually helping or hindering productivity. Invest in tools that automate tasks and simplify processes to free up time for more meaningful work.

Implementing Lean Methodologies

Lean principles focus on eliminating waste and improving efficiency. By adopting lean methodologies, such as working in one-piece flow, organizing workspaces, and continuously seeking small improvements, you can optimize your team’s performance and create a culture of continuous improvement.

Conclusion

Improving work-life balance for your employees requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both individual and organizational needs. By prioritizing personal organization, fostering a culture of balance and health, leveraging technology effectively, and implementing lean methodologies, you can create a workplace where employees thrive. Are you ready to take the first step toward creating a healthier work environment for your team? Explore the resources linked in this post and start implementing these strategies today. Your employees—and your bottom line—will thank you for it.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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What is Construction Management?

Posted on May 1, 2024May 1, 2024 by admin

Read 6 min

In this blog, we delve into the intricate world of construction management, aiming to demystify its core principles and shed light on its importance in the construction industry. From serving the field to effective planning and resource management, we’ll explore the key components that make up successful construction management.

Understanding Construction Management: Construction management is not about being served but serving others in the field. It’s about enabling the foremen, crews, designers, and trade partners to do their work effectively. This shift in mindset is crucial for effective project management.
Planning: The Foundation of Success: Proper project planning lays the foundation for a successful construction project. It involves creating a detailed plan that outlines logistics, timelines, resources, and overall project flow. Planning allows teams to visualize the project, identify potential challenges, and address them proactively.
Cost Estimation and Budgeting: Accurate cost estimation and budgeting are essential for ensuring project feasibility and financial stability. By estimating costs and creating a comprehensive budget, construction managers can provide cost certainty to project owners and stakeholders.
Scheduling and Coordination: Effective scheduling and coordination are key to keeping projects on track and within budget. Construction managers must develop detailed schedules that align with project plans and allocate resources efficiently to meet project milestones.
Risk Management: Identifying and managing risks is crucial for mitigating potential threats to project success. Construction managers must maintain a risk and opportunity register, proactively addressing risks and capitalizing on opportunities to minimize project disruptions.
Resource Management: Managing resources involves ensuring the timely delivery of materials, equipment, and labor to the project site. Construction managers must coordinate resource allocation to support project timelines and maintain productivity.
Quality Assurance and Compliance: Maintaining high standards of quality assurance is essential for delivering a successful construction project. Construction managers must implement quality control measures and conduct regular inspections to ensure that work meets established standards.
Effective Communication: Clear and open communication is vital for fostering collaboration and resolving issues throughout the project lifecycle. Construction managers must communicate effectively with project stakeholders, including owners, designers, and trade partners, to ensure alignment and transparency.
Change Management: Adapting to changes is inevitable in construction projects. Construction managers must effectively manage changes to project scope, schedule, and budget, ensuring that adjustments are made efficiently without compromising project objectives.

Conclusion: Construction management is a multifaceted discipline that requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and strategic planning. By understanding the core principles of construction management and implementing best practices, construction managers can navigate complex projects successfully and deliver exceptional results. At Elevate, we are committed to providing comprehensive construction management services to support the success of your projects. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your construction goals.

If you want to learn more we have:

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What is a Construction Management Degree?

Posted on April 24, 2024April 24, 2024 by admin

Read 6 min

In this comprehensive guide , we’ll delve into the intricacies of pursuing a CM degree, exploring its significance, key components, and essential insights to help you navigate through your educational journey and beyond.

The Significance of a Construction Management Degree

Let’s address the burning question: Do you need a construction management degree? While it’s true that a degree may not be an absolute necessity for career progression within the construction industry, it often serves as a crucial entry point for many aspiring professionals. Recruiters often look for candidates with a combination of a CM degree and relevant experience, making it a prerequisite for securing certain roles. However, once you’re immersed in the industry, your ability to excel and advance relies more on continuous learning and skill development than the mere possession of a degree.

Tips for Maximizing Your Learning Experience

As you embark on your CM degree journey, it’s essential to adopt the right mindset towards learning. Avoid falling into the trap of resenting the educational process and instead, cultivate a genuine passion for acquiring knowledge. Whether you’re attending lectures, participating in projects, or engaging in hands-on experiences, approach each opportunity with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

Key Components of a CM Degree

A typical construction management degree curriculum encompasses a wide array of subjects, ranging from construction processes and project management to business administration and technical skills. While you’ll be exposed to various topics, it’s crucial to focus on honing specific areas that are directly relevant to your career goals. Prioritize subjects such as project planning, budgeting, risk management, and leadership, as these form the cornerstone of effective construction management.

The Catalyst for Professional Growth

One of the most invaluable aspects of pursuing a CM degree is the opportunity for hands-on experience. Whether through internships, field trips, or project collaborations, these practical encounters allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, solidifying your understanding and enhancing your skill set. Make the most of these experiences, as they will serve as a springboard for your future endeavors in the construction industry.

Navigating Towards Success

As you navigate through your CM degree program, keep your eyes firmly set on your career goals. Set clear objectives, stay organized, and cultivate good study habits to maximize your learning potential. Additionally, prioritize building relationships, both within your academic community and the industry at large, as networking plays a crucial role in opening doors to future opportunities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pursuing a construction management degree is not merely about obtaining a piece of paper—it’s about embracing a transformative journey of learning and growth. By approaching your education with dedication, enthusiasm, and a proactive mindset, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in your construction management career.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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What Does A Design Manager Do In Construction?

Posted on April 16, 2024April 16, 2024 by admin

Read 6 min

Have you ever wondered what exactly a design manager does in the realm of construction? Perhaps you’re considering a career as a design manager, or maybe you’re already collaborating with one and want to understand their role better. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of design managers, the intricacies of their responsibilities, and what makes them crucial for successful construction projects.

Design managers play a pivotal role in construction projects, and understanding their functions is key to appreciating their significance. Think of them as the orchestrators behind the scenes, ensuring that everything falls into place seamlessly from conception to completion.

At the core of a design manager’s role is project planning. They oversee the entire design process, working closely with various stakeholders to ensure alignment with project objectives. From setting timelines to managing resources, they play a crucial role in laying the groundwork for successful project execution.

But their responsibilities don’t end there. Design managers are also tasked with team coordination, overseeing communication channels, and ensuring that information flows smoothly between disciplines. They facilitate collaboration among team members, streamline workflows, and address any challenges that may arise along the way.

Moreover, design managers are responsible for overseeing design development, ensuring that plans and specifications align with budgetary and regulatory requirements. They conduct thorough quality assurance checks to maintain standards and mitigate risks, all while keeping clients informed and engaged throughout the process.

In essence, design managers navigate the complex terrain of construction projects, balancing creativity with practicality, and ensuring that every aspect of the design process runs smoothly. Their ability to juggle multiple tasks while keeping sight of the project’s overarching goals is what sets them apart.

So, whether you’re considering a career as a design manager or collaborating with one on a construction project, understanding their role is essential. They are the unsung heroes behind every successful project, bridging the gap between creativity and functionality.

In conclusion, design managers are integral to the construction industry, and their contributions are invaluable. By understanding their role and responsibilities, we can better appreciate the complexity of construction projects and the vital role that design managers play in bringing them to fruition.

If you’re interested in learning more about design management or need assistance with your construction project, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help you navigate the intricacies of construction and ensure the success of your project from start to finish.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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What is A Pay Application in Construction?

Posted on April 11, 2024April 11, 2024 by admin

Read 7 min

The Importance of Cash Flow in Construction Businesses

Cash flow is the lifeline of any business, including construction. A healthy cash flow ensures that a business can cover its expenses and avoid financial distress. The concept of cash flow is emphasized heavily in the popular book “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” which introduces the idea through a game designed to teach financial management.

In construction, managing cash flow is critical because of the delay between incurring costs (like labor, materials, and equipment) and receiving payment. This gap requires construction companies to act like banks, providing financing by covering upfront costs until payment is received. This can tie up large amounts of capital, especially for small businesses which might invest hundreds of thousands of dollars before seeing any returns.

What is a Pay Application?

A pay application, also known as a payment application or progress payment request, is a formal document submitted by contractors to clients or owners. It requests payment for completed work and is typically submitted monthly, serving as an invoice for that period’s work.

Key Steps in Creating Effective Pay Applications

Contract Information Accuracy: Ensure all contract details like job number and payment period are correct. Errors can lead to rejections, delays, and further complications.
Accurate Time Period Coverage: The pay application must clearly state the period it covers. This precision ensures no overlaps or billing for unperformed work, maintaining transparency and trust with clients.
Following the Schedule of Values: The schedule of values should be strictly adhered to in the pay application. It lists the costs associated with each scope of work, helping track and bill accurately.
Describing Work Completed: Provide detailed descriptions of the work done, including any milestones reached and materials installed. Supporting documents such as inspection reports or progress photos should accompany these descriptions to validate the claims.
Clarity in Quantities and Units: Clear documentation of quantities and units installed allows clients to easily verify and approve pay applications against unit rates.
Inclusion of Change Orders: Any change orders or adjustments should be clearly noted to distinguish them from the base contract, ensuring they are properly accounted for in the payment process.
Final Review and Signatures: Before submission, a pay application must be reviewed and signed by relevant internal and external parties. This step is crucial to ensure all information is accurate and complete.

Pro Tips for Streamlining the Pay Application Process

Document Everything As You Go: Regular documentation helps avoid end-of-the-month rushes and ensures all necessary information is on hand when needed.
Adhere to Contract Terms and Submit Timely: Understanding and sticking to contract terms can prevent rejections. Timely submissions help maintain a regular payment rhythm, which is beneficial for both contractor and client.
Use Clear and Consistent Formatting: Consistency in pay applications makes it easier for the client to review and process them.
Communication and Follow-Up: Maintain open lines of communication with all stakeholders and track the progress of your pay applications to handle any disputes or delays promptly.

In conclusion, mastering pay applications in construction is not just about ensuring payment for completed work; it’s about actively managing your business’s cash flow and building trust with your clients. Proper handling of pay applications can significantly improve a company’s financial stability and operational efficiency.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

Author: admin

Building Multi-Family Ground Up

How To Manage Workers On A Construction Site

What Is An Organizational Health Assessment?

What Is Pull Planning In Construction?