Nicolas M., Author at Elevate Constructionist

How To Avoid Rework In Construction

Posted on August 21, 2024August 21, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 11 min

In this blog post, we’re going to dive into a crucial topic in construction: how to avoid rework. Did you know that rework, the act of having to redo something, can cost anywhere from two to 12 times the original expense? That’s staggering! No one wants that for their project, and that’s why you’re reading this post.

We’ll cover the origins of rework, how to reduce it, the process to manage the quality of installation on your project site, and provide you with a practical guide for double-checking your work. Let’s get started!

What Is Rework in Construction?

Rework refers to making changes to the original work, whether due to errors, changes, or omissions in the initial installation. Typically, the causes of rework fall into three categories:

Changes: Deviations from the original plan.
Errors: Mistakes made during the original installation.
Omissions: Leaving something out during installation.

Keeping these three categories in mind will help you understand why rework happens. In this post, I’ll share practical suggestions on how to avoid rework, all anchored in a quality process that you can follow in your construction projects.

The Quality Process for Setting Up a New Construction Project

To manage quality effectively, it’s essential to follow a structured process. Here’s a breakdown of the steps you can implement:

Pre-mobilization meeting: This should happen within two weeks of finalizing the contract. The goal is to ensure the trade partners clearly understand what is expected before they arrive on-site.
Pre-construction meeting: Scheduled one to three weeks before the work begins, this meeting sets the stage for quality. During this meeting, superintendents and foremen go over the plans and specifications, preparing themselves to inspect and deliver the work to the expected standard.
First In-Place Inspection: Once the work begins, it’s crucial to conduct an initial inspection to ensure that everything is off to a good start. This sets the tone for quality throughout the project.
Follow-up Inspections: Conduct regular inspections as the work progresses to catch any issues early.
Final Inspection: Once the scope of work is completed, conduct a thorough final inspection to ensure everything meets the required standards.

This process is critical to ensuring high-quality work and minimizing the chances of rework. Now, let’s dive deeper into the main causes of rework and how you can prevent them.

How to Avoid Rework in Construction

Human Error

Human errors occur when there’s a mix of technical tasks and human involvement. To reduce human error, set clear expectations, provide adequate training, and establish a system where workers have something to compare their work to. First in-place inspections, followed by consistent follow-up inspections, will help catch human errors before they escalate into bigger issues.

Poor Quality Materials

Using poor-quality materials, whether they are defective or simply the wrong type, can lead to rework. The best way to prevent this is by reviewing the materials during the pre-construction meeting and performing material inspections as they arrive on-site. Make sure the materials are installed correctly and are suitable for the project.

Inaccurate Field Information

Rework can occur when workers are not provided with accurate information. Ensuring that your crew has access to the latest drawings and specs is critical. In the pre-construction meeting, develop a visual checklist for the crew to reference. The first in-place inspection is your opportunity to verify that the crew has the correct information.

Inadequate or Outdated Tools

Sometimes, rework is caused by the use of outdated, damaged, or inadequate tools. Inspections should include checking that the crew has the proper tools for the job. Ensuring the crew is properly equipped helps maintain the quality of the work.

Miscommunication

Miscommunication between team members is a frequent cause of rework. The first in-place inspection and ongoing follow-up inspections can help bridge communication gaps. Ensure that everyone on the team, from the superintendent to the crew, is aligned on expectations and clear on the scope of work.

General Mistakes

Mistakes happen, especially if they’ve happened on previous projects. In your pre-construction meeting, address common mistakes and figure out how to prevent them. Adding these insights to your quality checklist will help avoid recurring issues during the project.

Different Versions of the Design

Rework can also stem from having different versions of the design in circulation. Ensure that the most up-to-date designs are being used during installation. The first in-place inspection and follow-up checks will help verify that the crew is working with the correct version.

Repetitive Work Fatigue

When crews perform repetitive tasks, they can slip into autopilot, which may lower the quality of the work. Combat this by conducting regular follow-up inspections and keeping the crew engaged in maintaining high standards.

Helpful Tips to Avoid Rework in Construction

Here are some actionable tips to help you avoid rework:

Set clear expectations for your crew.
Communicate those expectations effectively.
Ensure that expectations are visually represented during installation.
Inspect the work as it progresses.
Have a second set of eyes review the work to catch deviations early.

By following these tips and processes, you can plan your work effectively, build it right the first time, and ensure everything is finished to a high standard.

Conclusion

Avoiding rework in construction isn’t just about saving time and money—it’s about implementing a system that ensures high-quality results from the start. Stick to a structured process, communicate clearly, and inspect regularly. When you plan it right, build it right, and finish as you go, you’ll see a significant reduction in rework and a smoother overall project.

To help you implement this system, check the resources linked below. They include detailed content on preventing rework, managing quality, and double-checking installations. Following this process will save you time and money, ensuring the success of your projects.

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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How to Become a Safety Manager in Construction: A Clear Path

Posted on August 20, 2024October 14, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 9 min

Introduction

Are you interested in becoming a safety manager in the construction industry? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Knowing the key steps, understanding the tips and tricks, and ensuring it’s the right career path for you are essential. Let’s dive into what it takes to excel in this role and how you can set yourself up for success.

Learning from My Mistakes

When I first started in construction as a field engineer, I had my sights set on becoming a safety manager, and eventually, a safety director. I was passionate about safety and eager to make an impact. However, I quickly realized that my approach was flawed. I was strict, unyielding, and disconnected from the team’s needs. I learned the hard way that safety management is not just about enforcing rules—it’s about working with people and understanding the environment.

I remember one particular incident where my overzealous approach led to a harsh reality check from a seasoned safety director. He pointed out that I was missing the mark by not connecting with the team and failing to understand the context of the project. This experience taught me that to be an effective safety professional, you need to be supportive, reasonable, and work collaboratively with the team.

What the Best Safety Managers Are Like

The best safety managers I’ve worked with share common traits: they are connected with the team, reasonable in their demands, and focused on getting the important things done through people. They don’t just show up when something goes wrong—they are proactive, providing guidance and support to prevent issues before they arise.

One of the best examples I can share is a safety director I worked with who consistently walked the job sites, trained the crew, and held everyone accountable without resorting to punitive measures. Her approach was all about collaboration and prevention, which made her incredibly effective in her role.

Steps to Become a Safety Manager in Construction

Educational Requirements: Start with a solid educational foundation. A high school diploma or GED is essential to enter a college program. Majoring in occupational safety and health, construction management, engineering, or a related field is highly beneficial. While some may work their way up through the ranks, a college education will give you a significant advantage.
Gain Relevant Experience: Practical experience is crucial. Internships and entry-level positions like safety intern, safety engineer, or site supervisor will help you build familiarity with the work, connect with people, and learn the ropes. Experience is highly valued by employers, so don’t underestimate the importance of internships.
Develop Key Skills & Knowledge: Safety management requires a deep understanding of safety regulations, OSHA standards, and hazard identification. But equally important are communication and people skills. I recommend reading How to Win Friends and Influence People and Leadership and Self-Deception to help you navigate complex situations and build strong relationships.
Obtain Necessary Certifications: Certifications like Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST), and OSHA 10/30 are essential. These credentials demonstrate your commitment to the field and your expertise in safety management.
Network & Add Value: Building a strong network and adding value to those around you is key to advancing in your career. Safety management is all about influence—knowing how to move people and get things done through collaboration. Focus on developing your ability to communicate, resolve conflicts, and lead effectively.
Apply for Safety Positions & Promotions: Once you’ve built a solid foundation, start applying for safety positions and promotions. Work with your supervisors to create a clear career path, and leverage your network to find opportunities for growth.

Conclusion

Becoming a safety manager in construction requires a combination of education, experience, skills, and networking. It’s crucial to stay engaged, keep learning, and focus on people along the way. Don’t make the mistake of being too rigid or disconnected—safety management is about collaboration, communication, and influence.

If you ever need career advice or want to connect with top professionals in the field, feel free to reach out. I hope this blog has provided valuable insights into the path to becoming a successful safety manager. Top of Form

If you want to learn more we have:

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Understanding Work Hours for Construction Workers: Striking the Right Balance

Posted on August 19, 2024August 19, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 8 min

When it comes to construction, one of the most critical questions to consider is: how long can construction workers safely and effectively work? This question isn’t just about productivity—it’s about the well-being and safety of those on the job.

In this blog, we’ll explore the ideal number of work hours for construction workers, how different factors can impact these hours, and the consequences of overworking. It’s essential to find the right balance between getting the job done and ensuring the health and safety of your team.

The Impact of Work Hours on Construction Workers

In the construction industry, work hours can vary significantly depending on several factors such as region, weather conditions, and the nature of the job. For instance, in hotter regions, concrete placements might occur in the early morning to avoid the midday heat, while colder areas might see work happening later in the day. However, regardless of these variations, the key is to avoid overburdening workers with excessive hours.

When workers are pushed to work beyond their limits—whether it’s due to extended hours, lack of breaks, or night shifts—it can have severe consequences. Overworking disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to fatigue, poor decision-making, and even long-term health issues. Studies suggest that an 8 to 10-hour workday is ideal, allowing workers to remain focused and productive without compromising their health.

Ideal Work Hours: Daily and Weekly Recommendations

For daily work hours, studies indicate that 8 to 10 hours is the optimal range for construction workers. This schedule allows for necessary breaks and ensures that workers can maintain their focus and make sound decisions. Once workers exceed this limit, fatigue sets in, leading to decreased productivity, increased safety risks, and the potential for costly rework.

Weekly work hours should typically fall between 40 to 50 hours, with a base of 40 hours being common. While some overtime can be beneficial, it’s crucial not to exceed 50 to 60 hours per week. Beyond this, the risks of fatigue, injury, and decreased productivity become too significant to ignore.

Consequences of Overworking

When workers are overburdened, the negative effects extend far beyond individual health issues. Fatigued workers are more likely to make mistakes, leading to rework, delays, and increased costs. This can create a downward spiral, where the project becomes more chaotic and less efficient.

From a purely business standpoint, overworking employees doesn’t make sense either. As productivity declines, costs increase, and the project timeline is jeopardized. It’s crucial to recognize that caring for your workers’ well-being is not just a moral obligation—it’s also a smart business strategy.

Best Practices to Avoid Overburdening Workers

To ensure that your construction projects run smoothly and your workers remain healthy and productive, consider implementing the following practices:

Encourage Regular Breaks: Regular breaks help workers stay focused and reduce the risk of fatigue.
Ensure Adequate Rest: Make sure workers get enough sleep and rest, especially when working long hours or on different shifts.
Monitor Workers’ Health: Just as you would maintain and monitor equipment, it’s essential to keep an eye on the health of your workers. Provide resources like rest areas, cooling or heating stations, and even orthopedic specialists to support their well-being.
Proactive Work Schedule Management: Plan work schedules with workers’ health in mind. Avoid last-minute changes that could lead to overburdening your team.

Conclusion

Balancing work hours in construction is about more than just meeting deadlines—it’s about ensuring that workers are healthy, safe, and able to perform at their best. By understanding the limits of the human body and implementing practices that support your team, you can achieve better results and avoid the pitfalls of overworking. Prioritize your workers’ health, and you’ll see the positive impact on your projects.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

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How Do You Deal With Conflict In A Team?

Posted on August 14, 2024August 14, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 12 min

In this blog post, we’re diving deep into a critical topic: how to handle conflict within a team. Do you want to enjoy working with your team? Do you just hate conflict? If so, this is the blog for you. Stay with us as we unpack what conflict is, why it exists, and how it can actually be beneficial. We’ll also explore actionable steps you can take to resolve it. Ready to strengthen your team? Let’s get started.

What Is Conflict?

Let’s start by defining what conflict actually is. According to Google, conflict is a “clashing or sharp disagreement.” But not all conflict is the same. There’s a difference between conflict and healthy conflict.

Healthy conflict creates space for treating people with respect, listening to others’ ideas, and considering them during collaborative, iterative processes. Maintaining a sense of diversity and inclusion throughout this process is crucial.

5 Key Things That Leaders Do

Leaders inevitably face conflict within their teams. Whether you like it or not, it’s going to happen. But as a leader, it’s your responsibility to handle it. Effective leaders build their teams, have hard conversations when needed, coach or mentor direct reports, hold effective meetings, and manage communication. These five key things are part of what it means to be a leader.

One of the worst mistakes you can make is assuming that your team will never experience conflict. When you ignore conflict, real problems remain unsolved. The truth is, conflict can be a good thing—if you can guide your team through it in a healthy way.

The Importance of Conflict in Team Building

Conflict is a natural part of team-building. Every team goes through four key phases:

Forming: The team comes together.
Storming: People step on each other’s toes, and conflict arises.
Norming: The team starts to rally behind a shared goal or central figure.
Performing: The team achieves a high level of performance by working together.

You cannot avoid conflict if you want your team to succeed. In fact, you cannot become a high-performing team without going through that storming phase. Healthy conflict is crucial for teams to hold each other accountable and set collective standards.

A Movie Recommendation for Team Building

For a great example of how teams can push through conflict, watch Remember the Titans. The film showcases how a team, despite a culture of conflict and hatred, comes together through proximity and trust, solving problems through healthy conflict rather than letting negativity dominate. It’s an excellent metaphor for team-building and conflict resolution.

Helpful Exercise to Get to Know Each Other in a Team

Not all teams have the natural proximity of a football team, as in Remember the Titans, but there are ways to build that connection. One effective exercise is the “Personal Histories” activity. Bring your team together and have each person share something about their background that they believe is relevant to the team. This allows team members to gain insight into each other’s lives and thinking, fostering understanding and trust.

How to Find Ways to Resolve Conflict in Your Team

Once you’ve established proximity, the next step is finding real ways to resolve conflict. One powerful tool is creating a “player card” for each team member. This can include personality profiles (like DISC or StrengthsFinder), communication preferences, feedback styles, and key points that others should know about them. Aggregating this data helps team members understand each other better, which is key to resolving conflict effectively.

For instance, I once had a colleague who disliked emails, finding them disrespectful. After learning this through his player card, I stopped sending emails and began having in-person conversations with him instead. Our relationship drastically improved once we understood each other’s preferences.

Benefits of Increasing Proximity in Your Team

Proximity is essential for team growth. Getting people into meetings, encouraging them to spend time together, and creating open office environments all contribute to building a stronger, more collaborative team.

How to Provide Feedback to Anyone in Your Team

Effective feedback is crucial for healthy conflict. Instead of criticizing, use a more constructive approach. When providing feedback, say: “I noticed [specific behavior]. If you did [alternative behavior], you could achieve [desired outcome].” This method focuses on actions and outcomes, rather than on personal attacks, keeping the feedback productive.

How to Practice Discussing Hard Things in Meetings

Practice makes perfect. Regularly encourage your team to discuss hard topics in meetings. Create a safe environment for open feedback and disagreement, and praise those who speak up. This normalizes healthy conflict and helps prevent the team from falling into false harmony or, worse, toxic conflict.

5 Different Ways to Resolve Conflict in a Team

Here are five practical methods to help resolve conflict in your team:

Put it in the Bowl: Have team members anonymously write down their biggest concerns or challenges, then pull them out one by one for discussion. This creates a safe space for addressing tough topics without direct confrontation.
Brainstorm Mode: During brainstorming sessions, emphasize that no decisions are being made, so everyone feels free to speak up without fear of criticism.
Decision-Making: When decisions are tough, assign one person to make the final call after considering everyone’s input. This ensures clarity and progress.
Get to the Root of the Problem: If a conflict persists, dig deeper to identify and address the root cause, rather than just surface-level issues.
Consider a Coach: Sometimes, an outside facilitator or coach can help guide the team through difficult conflicts. Don’t hesitate to bring in extra support when needed.

Important Advice When Resolving Conflict in Your Team

While conflict is essential for team growth, there’s a line between healthy and toxic conflict. It’s crucial to strike a balance. Patrick Lencioni, a well-known leadership expert, advises against allowing conflict to devolve into toxic interactions. Instead, guide your team towards healthy conflict that fosters trust, accountability, and goal-setting.

Learn More with These Resources

For a deeper dive into team-building and conflict resolution, I highly recommend the book Elevating Construction Senior Superintendent. It’s packed with strategies and insights for leaders looking to build high-performing teams. You can find the book in print or listen to the free audio version through the link below.

By mastering conflict resolution, you’ll not only build a stronger team but also set the stage for high performance and mutual accountability. Good luck!

If you want to learn more we have:

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How To Make A Safety Plan For Construction

Posted on August 14, 2024October 17, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 10 min

Intro & Summary

Creating a safety plan for a construction project is more than just fulfilling an obligation; it’s about making safety a meaningful part of your culture. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make a safety plan that is not only effective but also impactful. We’ll break down the steps for developing safety plans at the company, project, and crew levels, ensuring safety remains a top priority at every stage of construction.

How to Identify Your Company Standards for Safety

When crafting a safety plan for your company, the first step is to identify your company’s safety standards. Depending on where you operate, this could involve meeting OSHA requirements, local city codes, or even standards set by the owner or insurance carrier. Start by understanding the specific regulations that apply to you, but more importantly, define how you will implement these safety standards and decide which ones are most important to your company.

How to Provide Company Training for Safety

Once you’ve established your standards, company training is essential. You need to create a clear, easily accessible safety and health manual. Make sure it’s easy to read, bulleted, and serves as a quick reference for employees. Then, offer training tailored to your company’s expectations. This could be in the form of general training, specific checklists, posters, or procedures. The key is to decide how you want to implement safety and then train your team to follow it.

Importance of Follow-Ups, Check-Ins, and Safety Inspections

The next critical step is ensuring consistent follow-up. Regular safety inspections and check-ins are vital for maintaining a safe work environment. The best safety cultures, like the one I experienced working with Janet at DPR, integrate frequent safety walks and monthly inspections.

These follow-ups ensure that safety standards are being maintained and give you the opportunity to address any issues as they arise. The goal is to create a culture where safety is taken seriously, and everyone understands their role in maintaining a safe workplace.

The Key to Implementing Safety in Construction

To successfully implement safety in construction, you need to focus on both beliefs and actions. A strong safety culture is built on clear communication, training, and consistent follow-up. By shaping beliefs through training and actions through field inspections, you can ensure safety becomes second nature to everyone on the team.

Importance of Including Safety Guidelines in Project Planning & Scheduling

When it comes to safety at the project level, the first step is ensuring your project planning and scheduling includes safety considerations. Every aspect of your planning—from logistics to work zones—should allocate time, resources, and methods for safe execution.

How to Create a Safety Plan for a Construction Project

Next, create a project-specific safety plan. This plan should focus on high-risk areas of the project and be tailored to the specific needs of the job. If you need an example, let me know in the comments. Your safety plan should address hazards, define safe practices, and ensure everyone on the site understands the procedures.

How to Design a Safety System & Signage Plan

Your logistics plan should also include a detailed safety system. Design your safety signage from the ground up so that every critical safety component is clearly identified and accessible. This includes emergency gathering areas, AED locations, emergency shutoff valves, and rescue equipment like crane lift baskets. Make sure these elements are planned and marked on your site map so everyone knows where to go in an emergency.

Important Safety Elements to Include When Designing Your System

When designing your safety system, identify your approach to safety on the project site. This includes deciding who will oversee safety, how training and orientation will be conducted, and how deviations from safety standards will be addressed. For instance, my approach is a zero-tolerance policy: safety violations are met with immediate action, ensuring everyone stays aligned with OSHA standards and project safety expectations.

How to Design Your Own Safety System in Construction

Whatever your method, make sure you have a consistent system in place that everyone follows. Train your team, include safety requirements in site orientation, and regularly reinforce these standards through meetings and check-ins. A consistent approach ensures that safety becomes ingrained in the project culture, reducing accidents and improving overall job site conditions.

How to Prepare for Safety on a Scope Basis with Your Crew

At the crew level, safety preparation involves clearly identifying tasks, outlining installation steps, and identifying potential hazards for each step. Implement mitigation measures, make sure everyone understands their role, and ensure the crew has the proper tools, training, and time to do the job safely.

Important Reminders When Implementing Safety in Construction

At all levels—whether company-wide, project-specific, or crew-focused—success in safety comes down to a few key principles:

Set clear expectations.
Ensure everyone understands these expectations in a visible and accessible way.
Provide proper training.
Follow up with field inspections to confirm adherence.

Finally, do not tolerate safety violations. Consistently uphold your standards to create a culture where safety is respected and followed. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to implementing a comprehensive safety plan for your construction projects.

Conclusion

Safety planning in construction is essential at every level. Whether for your company, project, or crew, building a strong safety culture involves clear standards, thorough training, regular follow-up, and consistent enforcement. By following these guidelines, you can turn safety from an obligation into a cornerstone of your project’s success.

If you want to learn more we have:

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What Is One Piece Flow In Lean?

Posted on August 14, 2024October 17, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 17 min

Intro & Summary
What is one piece flow in Lean? If you adopt the concept of one piece flow in your life, it will literally change everything for you. So get ready to be at least twice as effective as you are today if you’re willing to implement this blog post.

So what is one piece flow? What is this concept that J money is talking about? How can you start with one piece flow in your work and on your project, and what are the benefits? Well, we’re going to cover all that. So stay with us.

When we’re talking about one piece or one process, or one piece or one process flow, the first thing you’ve got to understand is what is the piece that is the key—you can’t do one piece flow, can’t do one process flow if you don’t know the piece. So I want you to imagine four rows of numbers from one to five, so 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, all the way over to the fourth column.

Which one is faster? Doing a process 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and then the second process or doing process 1, 1, 1, 1, and then doing process 2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5? Right, which one is faster? Well, I’ll tell you what happened.

Before we came to this earth, God, angels, and whatever it is that existed beforehand, or nature or the universe, taught us that batching was faster—meaning the 1, 1, 1, 1. When we were born, the first thing the doctor told us when they slapped us on the backside to get us to breathe was that batching was faster.

Elementary school, they taught us that. Middle school, they taught us that. High school and college, they told us that. When you moved out of the house, your parents taught you that. When you first got your job, your employer told you that batching was faster—everyone thinks that the 1, 1, 1, 1 is faster. But it’s not, most of the time. Well, the majority of the time.

Why One Piece Flow Is Faster Than Batching
Let me give you an example. Let’s say you’re reviewing a submittal. And that submittal requires you to study the drawings, then to review the submittal, then get a second set of eyes, then transmit that to the architect, and then do a page flip and make sure that you get your comments back. So what is faster?

Doing one submittal step 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or researching the drawings for 1, 2, 3, 4 on all of the step ones, and then doing the reviews, and then doing the second set of eyes, then transmitting it, then sending them all to the architect or the designers all at once—which one is faster? It is faster, in two main ways, for you to do one process or one piece, which is that submittal at a time.

Let me tell you why. First and foremost, that one submittal (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) gets delivered to the designers sooner, so now they can start. So now the rhythm has started sooner. The other thing is the overall process time is shorter for one process, one piece flow than it is for batching because when you batch something, you have mental context switching, additional motion, movement, or transportation.

This is absolutely key for us in construction. If you’re doing a submittal, do it one at a time. If you’re hosting a meeting, do one at a time. Plan it, do the meeting, finish the meeting one at a time. If you’re doing a task, do it one at a time. Everything you do needs to be done with as little distraction as possible, one piece or one process at a time if you want to save time and be fully effective.

Fun Example To Understand One Piece Flow
In fact, if you want something fun, right, I am going to suggest a game. If you want any additional clarification or want this specific game, just mention this in the comments of this blog post. I will respond back to you personally—me, myself, not an assistant. Okay, but if you want to have some fun with this, get 20 pieces of paper, 20 envelopes, and 20 stamps.

Put them in a pile, and then get another set of 20 pieces of paper, 20 envelopes, and 20 stamps, and put them in another pile. Time yourself: in the first pile, go fold all the papers all at once, then go stuff them all at once. Then go ahead and lick (which is super gross) all of these envelopes all at once, then put the stamp on them all at once and time yourself.

If you then want to look at one piece or one process flow, go take one piece of paper, fold it, stuff it in the envelope, lick it (which again is still super gross, it’s just you get to do them at separate times), and then put a stamp on it, and then go to the next one, and then the next one, and time yourself. Every time you do it, if you’re going the same speed, the one piece or one process flow will be faster, and you will have a visual of what I’m talking about. It’s a really great game that you can play anywhere.

In fact, I love this so much that I’m going to link you to three videos. One of the videos shows one piece flow. The other one shows the concept of large batch versus small batch. The third one shows the envelope game that I just described. But I highly recommend you try it out, especially if you want to have some fun or you’re presenting in front of a group.

How To Improve Efficiency & Productivity By Following A One Piece Flow
One story that I’d like to tell you before I move on: there’s a story of us, and that story of us is really the story of you liking and subscribing to this blog and commenting whenever you need something. Our story is one of continuous learning, continuous improvement, and engagement, where you get what you need continually in your role—the support that you want, the support you deserve.

But really, in all seriousness, there’s another story that I want to tell you about where we went to a company that was having difficulty completing their inspections on time. They were working, on average, about two and a half hours late every day, and they were about 40 inspection reports behind.

What we found out was the team would go do an inspection, and then not do the paperwork. They moved that to the end of the day, then did another one, another one, another one. They would go do four inspections, and they would batch all of the reports at the end of the day. What they didn’t know was that every time they did that, they added 15 minutes to 45 minutes of context switching for each of those delayed activities because they didn’t finish it one at a time.

So we suggested to them: Hey, you’re 40 reports behind, and every person is working an average of two and a half hours late. This is what we recommend: go do the inspection, do the documentation immediately, finish it, transmit it, and then go to the next project. They went from being able to do four inspections a day, working two and a half hours late each per person and being 40 inspection reports behind, to now being able to do five total inspections a day in the proper timeframe, being able to go home to their families with zero inspections behind.

This is the power of one piece flow, one process flow, because when you move something to the end of the day and don’t finish it right away, you’ve added 15 to 45 minutes. You are probably seeing two to four hours of waste, if not two to six hours of waste, every day from batching and context switching. We must get into the concept of one piece, one process flow.

How To Practice One Piece Flow In Construction
Alright, so here are some practical examples. When you do something, do it one at a time. When we are working on a construction project, the way we work in one piece or one process flow is by zone. The zone is your piece, the zone is your process or the process within that zone.

So your trade partners get to learn this mindset: we are going to plan the work in that zone, we are going to build the work in that zone right the first time, and we are going to finish the work in that zone as we go. We are not going to go to a different zone until we are ready. That is what one process flow looks like in construction. In addition to the meeting, the inspection, and the submittal examples—do one thing, one piece at a time.

Importance Of Planning Work Ahead Of Time
The other thing that everybody needs to know is that whether you’re doing a submittal, or you’re doing a meeting, or you’re doing an inspection, or you’re doing a zone, there has to be the time that it takes for you to do the work, also with a little bit of a buffer at the end—a little bit of a break.

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How Do You Deal With A Difficult Client?

Posted on August 14, 2024August 14, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 10 min

In this blog post, we’re going to cover how to deal with a difficult client. Don’t you just hate dealing with abusive clients? If so, you have come to the right blog post, because we don’t put up with that around here. And we’re going to show you how to go from chaos to calm right now.

So, what are the 14 steps that are required when dealing with a difficult client? Why do they do what they do? It’s really helpful to understand that actually, and how can you protect yourself? We’re going to cover that all. Let’s go.

I want to let you know that I do have some experience with this.

My Experiences Handling Difficult Clients I have worked for a lot of different clients, on a lot of different projects, and now as the CEO of Elevate, I get to work with a lot of general contractors and building owners. So I know what I’m talking about, and I’ve seen a lot of examples of clients who attempt to push and abuse the contractor—either intentionally or not. And these are the steps. We’re not going to waste any time, we’re just going to get right into them.

Some of the first steps that I’m about to tell you are pre-emptive, but if you do have a client that needs to be managed because they’re a little bit toxic, we’ll get into those at the end of the 14.

Step 1: Understand Your Client and Know Their Needs The reason I mention this first and foremost is because a lot of the behavior of a toxic client—and it doesn’t mean it’s right—is because they don’t feel understood or listened to. One of the first things you can do is really, really connect with them. This is probably best done, no, definitely best done, early on in the design and pre-construction phase. Teaming before you actually start the project is crucial, so you can identify the conditions of satisfaction with the owner and designers and start to build a cohesive team. Doing this sets you up for a higher likelihood of success. No, this won’t fix all issues, but it’s definitely somewhere to start.

Step 2: Take Care of Your Client’s Needs—In Spite of Human Nature Humans are emotional; humans will do what they do, and there are systems they fit into that we must understand. You need to take care of your client’s actual needs—the ones that are right, contractual, honest, moral, and ethical. For example, if your client asks you to start the project before they’re ready, that should be a no. If they ask for unsafe things, cutting corners, or trade stacking that fatigues crews, that should also be a no. The customer is right when it’s within contract provisions and doesn’t harm anyone.

Step 3: Understand Contractual Requirements You need to understand the contractual requirements to stay in balance. Be on top of your game—respond to requests timely and stay on top of your schedule, quality, safety, and costs. Doing your part well prevents escalation of toxicity in a difficult relationship.

Step 4: Look Deeper into Feelings Try to understand where your client’s emotional reactions are coming from. If you get to the root cause, you might solve the real problem and not just the symptom.

Step 5: See the Problem from Their Point of View Connect with them from their perspective, and act as if you’re an extension of that owner.

Step 6: Build a Team Through Difficult Situations Rally the team, build trust, engage in healthy conflict, set goals, and hold each other accountable.

Step 7: Find the Right Person to Communicate with the Client If all else fails, find someone within your organization who can calm the situation and manage the relationship effectively.

Step 8: Hold to the Right Stick to doing what’s right—hold to your schedule, avoid cutting corners, and don’t compromise safety.

Step 9: Shield Your Team from Distraction If you’re the superintendent or PM, shield your team from the negativity and toxicity of the client.

Step 10: Shield Your Team from a Toxic Client’s Representative If necessary, manage the contract to protect your team from a toxic owner’s representative.

Step 11: Set Boundaries If the client crosses the line, set firm boundaries and communicate the consequences if the behavior continues.

Step 12: Stop Working for Them (if Necessary) If the situation doesn’t improve, you may need to consider stopping work for that client.

Step 13: Never Start Doing the Wrong Thing Due to Manipulation Always hold to what’s right, even if it’s difficult. Don’t compromise on safety, ethics, or legality.

Step 14: Protect Yourself and Your Team At the end of the day, always do the right thing, and protect your team from undue harm.

I hope this helps you navigate difficult client relationships while maintaining your professionalism and protecting your team.

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What Is A Construction Logistics Plan?

Posted on August 14, 2024October 17, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 10 min

Introduction & Summary

What exactly is a construction logistics plan? Many amateur planners focus on tactics, armchair generals focus on strategy, but real experts master logistics. If you’re looking to 10x your logistics game and create a made-ready list of all the elements you should include in your construction planning, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, we’ll cover key tactics, practical advice, and the essential components of an effective logistics strategy for your construction project.

What Is a Construction Logistics Plan?

A construction logistics plan is a comprehensive strategy that helps manage all the logistical aspects of a construction project. It can be broken down into four main categories:

Supply Chain Management: Ensuring that the flow of materials and supplies to the site is consistent and reliable.
On-Site Logistics: Coordinating the transportation of materials and workers on-site to optimize productivity.
Public and Client Relations: Managing how your logistics impact neighbors, the surrounding community, and your client.
Inventory and Decision Making: Strategizing the levels of materials kept on site and how they are distributed and managed.

Your logistics plan will address these areas, ensuring that your supply chain delivers materials efficiently, from the point of receipt to the place of installation. It also helps safeguard your neighbors’ and clients’ experience while ensuring that materials and inventory are kept in check.

The Purpose of Construction Logistics Plans

Logistics plans are used to manage:

Receiving Materials and People: Staging materials, transporting them, and moving people efficiently.
Accessing Work Areas: Ensuring that workers and materials are at the right place at the right time.
Supporting Workers: Making sure your team has everything they need to work safely and effectively.

An effective logistics plan serves as a visual guide to help manage your supply chain, on-site logistics, public interaction, and material staging.

Different Ways to Create a Construction Logistics Plan

The beauty of a logistics plan is its flexibility. It can be created in various formats:

By Hand: Simple sketches or layouts.
In Software: Using Excel, Bluebeam, AutoCAD, Revit, or 3D modeling software.
3D Models: You can even create a 3D model using foam core board, printouts, and glue.

No matter how you create your logistics plan, it should be a visual tool that communicates clearly with your team and trade partners.

Six Key Types of Construction Logistics Plans

To fully optimize your project, consider creating six distinct types of logistics plans. Each one is tailored to a specific phase of construction:

Safety Plan: This plan shows the entire site and outlines emergency gathering points, fire extinguishers, AEDs, access and egress points, and all other safety-related aspects.
General Signage Plan: Outlines how workers, foremen, and deliveries will enter the site, how pedestrians and motorists will interact with the project, and how signage and wayfinding will be implemented.
Mobilization, Make-Ready, and Foundations Plan: This plan focuses on the early phases of the project, such as demo, staging materials like rebar, and concrete washouts.
Superstructure Logistics Plan: Deals with the crane-heavy phase, whether steel or concrete, involving formwork, reinforcing materials, and placing.
Exterior & Interior Logistics Plan: Focuses on access and entry points for workers and materials, exterior construction, and hoist logistics.
Site Work & Close-Out Plan: This plan details the final stages of the project, including site work, closing areas, furniture installation, and other owner-specific services.

How to Implement Construction Logistics Plans Effectively

Having a plan is one thing, but using it effectively is another. Here are six quick tips to make sure your logistics plans are working for you:

Keep Plans Updated: Information should never be static. Keep everything up-to-date with real-time adjustments.
Plan Material Staging: Use the logistics plan in your daily huddles to ensure coordinated deliveries and prevent unnecessary material movements.
Synchronize Entry Points with Delivery Schedules: Ensure that all entry points are clearly shown on the plan and are synced with deliveries.
Ensure Operators Have Access: Make sure your hoist, crane, and forklift operators can see the logistics plan at all times.
Use Maps in Huddles: Regularly discuss and coordinate logistics during team meetings to keep everyone aligned.
Make the Plan Visible to All: Post logistics plans where everyone can see them—conference rooms, huddle areas, etc.

What NOT to Do with Construction Logistics Plans

There are a few common pitfalls you should avoid:

Don’t Check the Box: Creating a logistics plan and then ignoring it will doom your project to inefficiency.
Don’t Skip Any of the Six Key Plans: Each phase of your project deserves its own detailed logistics plan to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Don’t Let the Plan Become Static: It must be a living document, constantly updated and adjusted as conditions change.

Important Things to Include in a Construction Logistics Plan

Here’s a rapid-fire list of key elements you should consider including in your logistics plan:

Area Control: Clear access routes and configurations.
Traffic Patterns: How vehicles and pedestrians will interact with your site.
Site Security: New utility construction, equipment staging, and mobilization points.
Equipment Placement: Location of cranes, hoists, and other heavy equipment.
Material Laydown: Where materials will be stored, fire lanes, and emergency planning.

By covering these points, you’ll ensure that every aspect of your construction project runs smoothly, from receiving materials to final close-out.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

The importance of a detailed and well-managed construction logistics plan cannot be overstated. It is the backbone of your project, ensuring that materials, people, and equipment all move efficiently, safely, and productively through every phase of the build.

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Construction Management vs. Civil Engineering: Understanding the Differences

Posted on August 13, 2024August 13, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 9 min

Construction management versus civil engineering is an interesting topic that often sparks curiosity among those considering a career in construction. In this blog, we’ll delve into the differences between these two fields and explore why many construction management professionals opt for civil engineering degrees. If you’re interested in this, keep reading to gain valuable insights that can help guide your educational and career choices.

What Is Construction Management?

Construction management focuses on the overall management of a project. It involves overseeing systems, processes, administration, and the leveraging of resources to ensure the project is completed efficiently. Construction management encompasses:

Managing costs, schedules, quality, and safety on-site.
Bringing teams together and maintaining communication.
Overseeing reports and documentation.
Planning and scheduling.
Budgeting and cost control.
Procuring materials and equipment.
Coordinating subcontractors and workers.
Ensuring safety compliance.
Communicating with clients, trade partners, engineers, and architects.

To pursue a career in construction management, individuals typically study within a civil engineering framework or obtain a construction science degree. It’s common to find people with civil engineering degrees who focus on construction management. However, it’s important not to confuse the two fields—civil engineering and construction management are distinct disciplines.

Different Ways to Study Construction Management

While civil engineering and construction management are different, many universities offer construction management as a focus within their civil engineering departments. This can sometimes lead to confusion, but it’s essential to recognize that construction management is more about project oversight rather than the technical design aspects that civil engineers handle.

Construction Management Certifications

Several certifications can bolster a career in construction management, such as:

Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
DBIA (Design-Build Institute of America) certification
CM-Lean certification

These certifications are valuable for managing construction projects but not necessarily for the technical engineering aspects.

A Word of Caution: Be mindful when considering a PMP (Project Management Professional) certification, as it tends to focus more on administrative skills rather than the hands-on project management skills needed in construction.

Potential Positions with a Construction Management Degree

With a construction management degree, you can pursue various roles, including:

Site Manager (especially outside the US)
Project Manager
Project Engineer
Operations Manager
Project Director
Project Executive
Assistant Superintendent
Superintendent
General Superintendent
Field Operations Director

What Is Civil Engineering?

Civil engineering, on the other hand, is centered around the design, development, and maintenance of infrastructure. Civil engineers work on utilities, plants, roads, bridges, dams, and buildings. Their responsibilities include:

Designing infrastructure projects.
Conducting investigations and feasibility studies.
Preparing engineering plans and specifications.
Analyzing data and performing complex calculations.
Ensuring compliance with engineering standards and regulations.
Supervising construction projects from an administrative standpoint.
Addressing technical issues and problem-solving throughout the project.

Civil Engineering Certifications

To become a civil engineer, you’ll need a degree specifically in civil engineering. Certifications like the Professional Engineer (PE) license and Engineer in Training (EIT) certification are crucial for advancing in this field. Additional training and certifications that focus on specific design areas can also enhance your qualifications.

Potential Positions with a Civil Engineering Degree

With a civil engineering degree, you can pursue roles such as:

Civil Engineer
Structural Engineer
Geotechnical Engineer
Transportation Engineer
Environmental Engineer

Why Most Construction Managers Choose a Civil Engineering Degree

Many construction managers choose to pursue a civil engineering degree because it provides a strong technical foundation. Here’s why:

Technical Foundation: A civil engineering degree equips you with a deep understanding of materials, methods, and math, which is crucial for managing complex construction projects.
Versatility: The skill set gained from a civil engineering degree makes you more versatile, allowing you to move between construction management and design roles.
Problem-Solving Skills: Civil engineering education emphasizes problem-solving, which is invaluable in construction management.
Credibility and Trust: A degree in civil engineering with a construction management focus provides credibility, making it easier to get hired and advance in your career.
Certification Requirements: Some certifications and licenses require a formal degree, making it essential for certain career paths.
Career Flexibility: A civil engineering degree opens up more career opportunities and allows for greater flexibility in your professional journey.
Understanding of Design and Engineering: This understanding allows construction managers to work more effectively with design teams.
Competitive Advantage: Construction management or civil engineering majors with a construction management focus are often more competitive in the job market.

Understanding the difference between a construction manager and a civil engineer, as well as why many construction managers choose to earn a civil engineering degree, can help you make informed decisions about your education and career. Whether you choose construction management or civil engineering, both fields offer rewarding experiences and opportunities.

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Benefits of Construction Management Software

Posted on August 12, 2024August 12, 2024 by Nicolas M.

Read 11 min

Unlocking the Power of Construction Management Software: The Right Way

In this blog, we’ll explore the significant role construction management software plays in modern construction projects, emphasizing the importance of using it effectively. If you’re eager to learn how to leverage this technology, understand the frameworks that ensure its success, and keep it in check so you don’t lose your way, you’re in the right place.

How The Software You Use Can Affect Your Systems

Let me begin with a story about a consulting company that truly understands lean construction, last planner systems, and other essential construction scheduling tools. Kevin and I visited them to observe their innovative practices and provide feedback during a field walk. During one session, they mentioned that they used to implement certain fundamentals that effectively created flow in their construction projects. However, as they started relying more on their project management software, these essential practices were phased out because the software didn’t support them. The consequences were noticeable.

This is a common issue with construction software. Whether it’s scheduling or project management tools, you must be aware of how software can limit you and impact your systems and processes. Identify potential negative consequences early. Throughout my career, I’ve used various software like Prolog, Procore, and CMiC, and they’re all excellent—if used correctly. Remember, the software should do what you need it to do, not dictate your processes. To quote a principle I stand by: “Software should do things that only it can do to enable you to do things that only you can and should be doing.”

Qualities of a Good Construction Management Software

A construction management software is only valuable if it is fast, addictive, and useful. If the software slows you down, complicates processes, or adds unnecessary steps, it’s not worth your time. I once worked with a safety app that, while designed to streamline incident reporting, added so many extra steps that it became a burden. This complexity led to a significant drop in safety observations because no one wanted to use it. Software must be fast, engaging, and practical for it to be effective.

How Construction Management Software Can Help with Cost Management

One area where construction management software truly shines is in cost management. Unlike Excel, where one wrong formula can ruin an entire estimate or projection, dedicated software tools offer a higher level of accuracy and reliability. These tools are excellent for cost estimation, budgeting, and managing pay applications, ensuring you stay on top of your financials without the risk of human error.

How Construction Management Software Can Increase Efficiency

Efficiency is another area where the right software can make a big difference. For example, during my time as a superintendent, I used an app that allowed me to take a picture, use voice-to-text for notes, and automatically sync everything into the project management system. This streamlined the daily reporting process, saving time and improving accuracy. Look for software that enhances these everyday workflows, making them faster and more efficient.

How Construction Management Software Can Make Documentation Easier

Having all project documentation in one place is crucial. Whether it’s plans, specifications, RFIs, submittals, or contracts, the right software helps you keep everything organized and easily accessible. This not only improves project efficiency but also ensures that your company can retain and recall important documents as needed.

How Construction Management Software Can Improve Collaboration

Collaboration is key in any construction project, and many software tools are designed to facilitate better teamwork. Whether it’s using WhatsApp for communication, Miro for virtual whiteboarding, or Microsoft Teams for integrated project management, these tools can significantly improve how your team works together. When choosing collaboration tools, ensure they enhance your team’s connectivity and efficiency.

How Construction Management Software Can Help Streamline Your Process

When it comes to quality control and risk management, software can be incredibly beneficial. However, it’s essential to ensure that the software you choose doesn’t add unnecessary complexity to these processes. I’ve seen instances where overly complicated software caused quality observations to plummet, simply because it was too difficult to use.

Other Uses for Construction Management Software

Construction management software also plays a critical role in data analytics, mobile access, resource management, and more. For example, tools like Power BI can help with data reporting, while mobile access allows workers in the field to stay connected. Ensuring that your software integrates with other tools and systems, such as accounting software, is also crucial for smooth project management.

My Favorite Construction Management Software

Some of my favorite tools in the construction industry include Autodesk, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office, and Canva for design and communication. I also appreciate tools like NoteVault for daily reports and BIM 360 Field for punch lists. The key is to find a suite of tools that work well together and meet your specific needs.

How We Used Different Construction Management Software in Our Systems

At the Bioscience Research Laboratory, we implemented a well-mapped system using a variety of tools. We used Bluebeam Project to post drawings, RFIs, and submittals, BIM 360 Glue for modeling, and NoteVault for daily reports. Each tool was chosen for its specific purpose, and the entire system was designed to work seamlessly together. Even though it wasn’t all under one enterprise license, the workflow was efficient and effective, proving that you don’t need to lock everything into one software solution to achieve great results.

Lastly, to ensure you’re designing a system with the right applications for your projects, it’s crucial to stay informed and make educated choices. If you ever need help in choosing the right applications or designing a system that works for your team, we’re here to help.

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The Importance of Conflict in Team Building

A Movie Recommendation for Team Building

Helpful Exercise to Get to Know Each Other in a Team

How to Find Ways to Resolve Conflict in Your Team

Benefits of Increasing Proximity in Your Team

How to Provide Feedback to Anyone in Your Team

How to Practice Discussing Hard Things in Meetings

5 Different Ways to Resolve Conflict in a Team

Important Advice When Resolving Conflict in Your Team

Learn More with These Resources

Intro & Summary

How to Identify Your Company Standards for Safety

How to Provide Company Training for Safety

Importance of Follow-Ups, Check-Ins, and Safety Inspections

The Key to Implementing Safety in Construction

Importance of Including Safety Guidelines in Project Planning & Scheduling

How to Create a Safety Plan for a Construction Project

How to Design a Safety System & Signage Plan

Important Safety Elements to Include When Designing Your System

How to Design Your Own Safety System in Construction

How to Prepare for Safety on a Scope Basis with Your Crew

Important Reminders When Implementing Safety in Construction

Conclusion

Introduction & Summary

What Is a Construction Logistics Plan?

The Purpose of Construction Logistics Plans

Different Ways to Create a Construction Logistics Plan

Six Key Types of Construction Logistics Plans

How to Implement Construction Logistics Plans Effectively

What NOT to Do with Construction Logistics Plans

Important Things to Include in a Construction Logistics Plan

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

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