Rules Of Flow In Construction: Triage

How Triage Can Revolutionize Flow in Construction Projects

When it comes to optimizing construction projects, prioritizing tasks and resources effectively can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll delve into the concept of triage, explore its origins, and learn how it applies to creating flow in construction. Whether you’re managing multiple projects, prioritizing phases, or focusing on daily crew tasks, this principle is a game-changer.

What Is Triage?

The term “triage” originates from medical emergency rooms, where patients are prioritized based on urgency. A heart attack patient, for example, takes precedence over someone with a minor flu. In the construction world, triage means assigning urgency and priority to projects, phases, or tasks to ensure maximum efficiency and flow.

The Role of Triage in Construction:

Triage in construction can apply at multiple levels:

1. Project Selection: Only take on high-priority, profitable projects that align with your team’s strengths.
2. Phase Prioritization: Focus on critical infrastructure phases like superstructures before worrying about less urgent items like a pool that’s due months later.
3. Task Management: Within crews, prioritize the most impactful tasks first to avoid overburdening resources.

This structured approach allows you to concentrate on tasks that truly matter, ensuring smoother operations across all levels.

Handling Bottlenecks and Constraints:

The theory of constraints teaches us that bottlenecks are inevitable in any system. However, triage can help you mitigate their impact.

• Identify urgent and important items that must be tackled first.
• Avoid exceeding the system’s capacity by overloading it with low-priority tasks.
• Create what we call the “Red Zone,” focusing on tasks that you’re good at, enjoy doing, and are profitable.

By narrowing your focus to the Red Zone, you can avoid spreading resources thin and maintain steady progress.

Practical Applications of Triage in Construction:

Here are four actionable strategies to implement triage in your construction projects:

1. Gate System: Only add new tasks or projects into the workflow if they meet priority and capacity requirements.
2. One-In, One-Out Policy: Complete an existing task or project before taking on a new one.
3. Regular Reviews: Continuously evaluate the flow and adjust priorities to ensure maximum efficiency.
4. Full-Kit Preparation: Before starting any new phase or task, ensure all necessary resources are available to complete it effectively.

The Benefits of Implementing Triage:

When applied correctly, triage can lead to:

1. Improved Throughput: Faster project completion by focusing on critical tasks.
2. Higher Quality: Better outcomes as teams have the capacity to focus on delivering quality work.
3. Cost Savings: Reduced waste by avoiding overcrowded job sites and idle resources.

By prioritizing tasks effectively, you can achieve greater efficiency, save money, and reduce stress across your teams.

Key Takeaways for Construction Flow:

At every level—company, department, project, or crew—triage is crucial. Focus on high-impact, high-priority tasks and avoid getting caught up in the “thick of thin things.” By doing so, you prevent overburdening your resources, maintain morale, and improve overall productivity.