Juggling Multiple Projects! A Super’s Survival Guide

The Ultimate Survival Guide for Superintendents Managing Multiple Projects

Managing multiple projects as a superintendent is a challenging reality for many in the construction industry. While it’s not ideal, it is often necessary. In this blog, we’ll dive into key strategies, actionable advice, and essential tools to help you thrive in this demanding role. Let’s transform the challenge into an opportunity for growth and success.

Why Managing Multiple Projects is Difficult:

Overseeing several projects stretches your focus and energy. Studies have shown that as the number of projects you handle increases, your effectiveness decreases due to context-switching and a lack of dedicated focus. When you’re juggling too many responsibilities, you risk losing the ability to create meaningful impact.

Strategies to Stay on Top:

1. Build the Right Team:

Whether you’re a superintendent or general superintendent, having a stable, disciplined team on-site is non-negotiable. Here’s how to structure your team effectively:

• Ensure each project has a project manager, superintendent, and necessary support staff.
• Treat trade partners’ foremen as part of your team when managing multiple projects directly.
• Have reliable site personnel trained in OSHA, first aid, and basic project management to act as your eyes and ears on-site.

2. Use Visual Systems for Clarity:

Implement visual boards for each project to clearly communicate plans, track progress, and maintain alignment. These boards should include:

• Instructions developed collaboratively with your team.
• Clear updates that can be managed remotely, ensuring seamless execution when you’re not on-site.

3. Time Block Your Schedule:

Organize your week by assigning dedicated days or time blocks to specific projects. This minimizes context-switching and helps you maintain focus. For example:

• Dedicate one day to project walkthroughs and planning for each site.
• Group similar tasks to maximize efficiency and reduce unnecessary disruptions.

4. Prioritize Tasks with Discipline:

Focus on the most critical tasks each day. Follow these principles:

• Eat the frog first: Tackle the hardest, most important task at the start of your day.
• Delegate tasks to others whenever possible to stay focused on high-level responsibilities.

5. Limit Work in Progress:

Keep projects aligned and avoid overloading your team. A steady, even flow ensures that projects remain organized, clean, and safe.

6. Minimize Interruptions:

Set clear boundaries for communication by creating designated time blocks for calls and meetings. This ensures you can focus during critical planning sessions without constant distractions.

7. Communicate Effectively:

Follow a structured communication approach to keep everyone on the same page:

• Build strong, decentralized teams that can execute plans independently.
• Simplify goals and ensure clarity across all levels of your team.
• Maintain regular, non-emotional, and goal-oriented communication.

Key Practices for Success:

To thrive as a superintendent overseeing multiple projects, adhere to these essential habits:

• Set clear goals: Define weekly objectives and communicate them to your team.
• Create visual clarity: Ensure all project instructions and plans are easily accessible through visual boards.
• Encourage team ownership: Empower teams to develop and execute their plans while you provide guidance.

Final Thoughts:

Managing multiple projects is undeniably tough, but with the right approach, you can excel. Build strong teams, use visual systems, and maintain discipline in your work. By focusing on what matters most, you’ll not only survive but thrive in this demanding role.