How to Solve Unexpected Problems in the Field: A Practical Framework
This blog was inspired by a listener question—exactly the kind of content we love to create. The topic today is how to deal with unexpected problems in the field, especially those not caught during the planning phases. If you’re an assistant superintendent, field engineer, project engineer, or in a similar role, this framework is for you.
The Reality of Unexpected Problems:
Unexpected problems are those not caught in strategic planning, pull planning, look-ahead planning, weekly work plans, day planning, or preparatory meetings. While some issues are unforeseeable, the more we catch early, the better our chances of maintaining stability on-site.
A key idea here: the more problems you solve during planning, the fewer unexpected issues remain, allowing your team to focus their energy effectively.
A Lean Framework: The Laws of Combat:
We turn to Jocko Willink’s Laws of Combat for guidance:
- Cover and Move – Build and support your team. Everyone needs to know their role.
- Simplify – Make sure the mission is clear and understood.
- Prioritize and Execute – Tackle the most important issue first.
- Decentralize Command – Empower foremen to make decisions.
When this structure is in place, a well-trained foreman should be able to solve many issues independently, especially when the site is clean, safe, and well-organized.
Communication Is Key:
If a problem arises that’s beyond the foreman’s control, strong communication systems become critical. Whether it’s through radios, WhatsApp, GroupMe, or a phone call—friction must be minimal. Your team should have easy access to you.
A 5-Step Problem-Solving Process:
When a foreman flags a problem, follow this approach:
- Understand the Problem – Don’t jump to conclusions. Listen first.
- Know as Much as Possible – Gather full context and input from everyone involved.
- Know Your Options – Identify possible paths (A, B, C, D…).
- Choose Based on Flow and People – Pick the option that maintains system flow and doesn’t harm people.
- Use the Right Tools – Miro board and Canva graphics. These tools list common constraints and roadblocks, what causes them, and what can be done to prevent or resolve them.
The Key to Success:
Most problems on-site stem from a lack of communication, planning, or proper decision-making. Many superintendents are taught to act fast but real leadership means being available, approachable, and methodical.
If you plan ahead, remain reachable, engage deeply with problems, and protect both your team and workflow, you’ll create a high-functioning and safe environment.
Key Takeaway:
The best superintendents don’t just react to problems they prevent what they can through solid planning, empower foremen to solve what they should, and stay actively involved in removing roadblocks that threaten flow or safety. The real key is being present, prepared, and people-focused.
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
