What Should I Focus On When Reviewing A Set Of Plans From A Field Management Perspective?

Mastering Plan Reviews from the Field: A Practical Guide for Builders

As a builder in the field, reviewing a massive stack of construction drawings can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. In this blog, we’ll explore a strategic, phased approach to plan reviews helping you stay focused, efficient, and proactive without getting lost in the details.

This content stems from a great question submitted by one of our viewers:
“What should I focus on when reviewing a set of plans from a field management perspective?”
Let’s dive into what I call the art of plan review—because it truly is an art form.

The Power of Phased Drawing Reviews:

Years ago, while working under General Superintendent Scott Berg at Hensel Phelps, I was taught to approach drawings in logical phases. Scott didn’t just toss me the full set—he directed me to study civil and structural drawings first. Later, as the project emerged from the ground, he shifted my focus to architectural and MEP drawings.

This phased approach allowed me to digest complex information in manageable chunks—and it’s a method I’ve relied on ever since.

Here are the five essential types of plan reviews I recommend for anyone managing construction from the field:

1. Early-On Review:

Purpose: Identify long-lead items and major constructability concerns.

At the design development or early construction drawing stage (e.g. 30%–60% CDs), I begin with a high-level strategic page flip—quickly scanning the drawings to spot:

• Procurement-critical items.
• Early Pre-construction risks.
• Planning-impacting design elements.

Yes, I print them. Yes, I mark them up. And yes, it brings clarity and confidence to early planning efforts. This review sets the direction for your team and gives you a foundation to move forward decisively.

2. Detailed Review:

Purpose: Conduct a comprehensive drawing-by-drawing analysis.

This is where you slow down and go page by page. You’ll review:

• General notes and callouts.
• Detailed sections and geometry.
• Cross-reference with specs.

Use this phase to populate your:

• Procurement log.
• Risk and opportunity register.
• Testing and inspection register.

You don’t have to memorize everything. You just need to understand what matters and where to find it. Mark it up digitally (e.g. in Bluebeam) or on paper—but make your notes actionable.

3. Trade Review:

Purpose: Prepare for buyout, pre-construction, or pre-mobilization meetings.

This is a scope-specific review tied to trade packages. Focus on:

• Scope completeness.
• Pre-mobilization needs.
• Visual quality expectations.

By reviewing trade by trade, you ensure all details are covered and that nothing falls through the cracks during mobilization or coordination.

4. Upcoming Review:

Purpose: Align your plan review with what’s scheduled 3–6 weeks out.

This is one of the most practical and impactful reviews—especially for superintendents. Take time in the office (or outside with a plan table and umbrella!) to study the portions of the drawings related to work happening in the next few weeks.

This review helps you:

• Trigger critical actions.
• Coordinate materials and labor.
• Reinforce jobsite readiness.

You’re not just looking at the plans—you’re actively managing execution.

5. Daily Review:

Purpose: Stay situationally aware and responsive.

You don’t need to review the entire set every day. Instead, review the drawings that align with current and near-term activities. This keeps you sharp and helps you stay ahead of potential issues before they reach the field.

Field Management is an Art—Not a Science:

Each of these reviews serves a distinct purpose. When timed and executed properly, they prevent overwhelm and enable smarter planning. Here’s a quick recap:

• Early-On – Set direction.
• Detailed – Dive deep.
• Trade – Focus by scope.
• Upcoming – Plan proactively.
• Daily – Stay sharp.

Final Thoughts:

This isn’t just a checklist—it’s an art form. Reviewing plans well requires timing, context, and repetition. Do it a little at a time, at the right time.