Lean Built

Month: December 2024

Pre-Con Meeting: Aligning On Expectations

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Why Pre-Construction Meetings Matter:

Pre-construction meetings, also called pre-installs or preparatory meetings, take place three weeks before work starts. These meetings ensure all trade partners are aligned, expectations are clear, and the project kicks off smoothly.

Unlike owner pre-construction meetings, these are focused sessions with trade partners to address project-specific details and set clear priorities.

Key Steps to Align Expectations:

Understand the Owner’s “Top 10” Priorities:

  • Identify the top 10 things that are most important to the owner.
  • Examples could include critical features like lobbies, waterproofing, or staircases.
  • Document and communicate these priorities to all trade partners.

Review Checklists for Installation Work Packages:

  • Use a checklist to streamline installation work packages.
  • For repetitive projects (e.g., data centers, multi-family buildings, restaurants), leverage previous data to highlight improvements.
  • Review these checklists to ensure consistency and quality.

Collect and Highlight Pre-Mobilization Items:

  • Gather critical documents before the meeting, such as:
    • Safety manuals.
    • Quality manuals.
    • Emergency contacts.
    • Drawings, specifications, RFIs, submittals, and shop drawings (with key points highlighted).
  • Focus on highlighted content to save time and emphasize critical requirements.

Align on Safety and Quality Expectations:

  • Discuss project safety and quality standards to ensure clean, safe, and organized job sites.
  • Make sure the foreman understands and signs off on the quality plan.

Start the Meeting with Priorities:

  • Kick off the meeting by reviewing:
    • Owner’s Top 10 priorities.
    • Installation checklists.
    • Highlighted pre-mobilization documents.
    • Safety and quality expectations.

Why This Matters:

Pre-construction meetings are crucial for:

  • Avoiding misunderstandings and costly mistakes.
  • Setting clear expectations for safety, quality, and priorities.
  • Ensuring trade partners are aligned and ready for smooth project execution.

Final Thoughts:

A well-structured pre-construction meeting sets the foundation for project success. By documenting priorities, reviewing key documents, and aligning on expectations, you’ll ensure your team is ready to execute without surprises.

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

How To Conduct A Post-Construction Lessons Learned Review

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

In this blog, we’ll dive into how to successfully conduct a post-construction Lessons Learned review—a process that can significantly enhance your team’s performance and lead to continuous improvement across projects. This structured approach will ensure that valuable insights are not only captured but actively applied to improve future projects.

Why Is a Post-Construction Lessons Learned Review Important?

A post-construction Lessons Learned review is vital for:

  • Identifying and resolving recurring issues.
  • Highlighting successes to replicate on future projects.
  • Ensuring feedback is shared with key teams like estimating, preconstruction, and business development.
  • Strengthening client relationships and positioning for repeat business.
  • Building a solid reference class of past project data for better forecasting.

The key takeaway? This process ensures you can consistently improve from project to project, achieving leaner, more efficient operations.

Key Steps to Conduct a Successful Review:

Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing an effective post-construction Lessons Learned review:

  1. Set the Stage & Define Objectives:
  • Establish a clear purpose for the review.
  • Prepare the necessary data and documents beforehand.
  • Develop a structured agenda and allocate time for each topic to keep the session focused.
  1. Review Project Data & Documentation:

Evaluate the following critical metrics and reports:

  • Project schedule and its adherence.
  • Budget reports to analyze cost control.
  • Quality control and safety reports for compliance and improvement opportunities.
  • Change orders and communication logs for identifying process bottlenecks.
  • Lean KPIs like roadblock removal, buffer ratios, and percent plan complete (PPC).

This step not only helps assess the current project but also reveals areas for better tracking and reporting in future projects.

  1. Facilitate Open & Honest Communication:

Create an environment of trust where team members can:

  • Discuss challenges without fear of blame.
  • Focus on systemic issues rather than individual errors.
  • Share actionable insights for improving processes, systems, and culture.
  1. Focus on Key Areas for Reflection:

Use structured questions to guide your discussion, such as:

  • How effective was the project schedule and budget control?
  • Were roles and responsibilities clearly defined?
  • Did the project adhere to safety protocols?
  • What was the level of client and stakeholder satisfaction?

Addressing these areas ensures that you gather comprehensive feedback for continuous improvement.

  1. Collect Information & Plan for Improvements:

Document all insights and recommendations. Involve key stakeholders like estimators, preconstruction leaders, and business development professionals to ensure these lessons translate into actionable strategies.

  1. Identify Actionable Improvements:

The review’s findings must be integrated into the organization’s processes, including:

  • Standard work procedures for estimating and preconstruction.
  • Training programs for business development teams.
  • Huddle boards and SOPs for field implementation.

Make It a Continuous Process:

A single review isn’t enough—repeat this process for every project. Use the insights gained to refine your methods, strengthen your workflows, and improve collaboration across teams. When done consistently, these reviews create a culture of continuous improvement and lean thinking.

The Client Connection:

A post-construction review is also an excellent opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your clients. By addressing project outcomes openly and proactively, you demonstrate professionalism and reliability, ensuring that you remain their first choice for future projects.

Key Takeaway:

A well-executed post-construction Lessons Learned review is essential for continuous improvement. By capturing and actively applying insights, you can enhance team performance, streamline processes, strengthen client relationships, and create a data-driven foundation for better project planning and execution in the future.

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

Pre-Con Meeting: How To Prepare The Meeting

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

How to Prepare for a Pre-construction Meeting

Preparing for a Pre-construction meeting—also called a pre-installation or preparatory meeting—is a critical step for successful project execution. This blog aims to clarify what this meeting entails, why it’s crucial, and how you can prepare for it effectively.

What Is a Pre-construction Meeting?

A Pre-construction meeting, as discussed here, is not the same as the one you might have with the owner or a city inspector. Instead, it’s the meeting held to prepare a work package with the trade partner approximately three weeks before starting the actual work.

Though various terms like pre-installation or preparatory meeting are used, the intent is consistent: it is specific to the work package and aligns with long-term planning best practices.

Why Pre-construction Meetings Are Crucial:

This meeting plays a vital role in ensuring smooth project execution by fostering alignment between all stakeholders. It addresses four key habits for successful long-term planning:

  1. Pull Planning: Begin three months out to structure workflows.
  2. Pre-construction Meetings: Conduct these three weeks before the work package starts.
  3. Six-Week Look-ahead Planning: Prepare detailed weekly work schedules.
  4. Supply Chain Alignment: Adjust procurement buffers and feeding buffers as needed.

By following these habits, you can avoid common pitfalls such as delayed starts, defects, and production delays.

Key Outcomes of a Pre-construction Meeting:

The goal of the meeting is simple: ensure that trade partners have everything they need to install the work package efficiently. This includes:

  • Accurate Information: Plans, specs, RFIs, and installation instructions.
  • Visual Systems: Tools to plan, build, and finish the work package.
  • Prepared Teams: Educating foremen and crews for a seamless start.

Without proper preparation, the first zones will take longer, increasing the likelihood of defects and delays in meeting production schedules.

What Happens in a Pre-construction Meeting?

These meetings typically involve trade partner project managers, superintendents, and foremen. If the foreman is absent, the meeting cannot be effective. Information transfer between first planners (initial preparation) and last planners (foremen and crews) is a key aspect.

Core Agenda:

  1. Set Expectations: Define clear objectives and deliverables.
  2. Work Package Planning: Outline the specifics of the task at hand.
  3. Installation Instructions: Detail the processes for proper execution.

How to Prepare for a Pre-construction Meeting:

Preparation takes approximately a day and a half of focused work. Key preparatory steps include:

  1. Gathering Documents:
    • Contracts, plans, and specs.
    • Approved RFIs, submittals, and shop drawings.
    • Installation instructions and applicable codes.
    • Safety and quality plans.
  2. Highlighting Key Details:
    • Ensure all necessary items are reviewed and marked for clarity.
  3. Organizing Information:
    • Use tools like red folders (as Hensel Phelps does) to keep everything easily accessible.
  4. Compiling Checklists:
    • Prepare internal company checklists or customized installation work packages.
  5. Ensuring Team Readiness:
    • Confirm trade partners meet insurance and bonding requirements.

Essential Materials Checklist:

For the meeting to be effective, ensure the following are available:

  • Highlighted drawings, specs, and shop drawings.
  • RFIs and submittals (approved and marked).
  • Safety and quality plans.
  • Emergency contact lists.

Final Thoughts

A well-prepared Pre-construction meeting is the cornerstone of successful project execution. Spending the necessary time and effort upfront ensures trade partners and teams are ready to hit the ground running.

By consistently following these practices, you’ll enhance your team’s efficiency, minimize risks, and keep your projects on track.

Let’s make every Pre-construction meeting a step toward excellence!

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

What Do Utility Contractors Do? Responsibilities Explained

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

What Do Utility Contractors Do? Responsibilities Explained

I get asked all the time: What does a utility contractor do? Is this a profession, a scope, or a trade that you might want to explore? Should you consider starting a business in this field? In this blog, I’ll share my insights about utility contractors, their scope of work, and what makes this industry so fascinating and rewarding. Having gained extensive experience in this field, I’ll also discuss the types of utility construction work available.

How Utility Contractors Can Achieve Success:

First of all, I’ve seen countless utility contractors succeed immensely. At LeanTakt and Elevate, we collaborate with many civil and utility contractors. They are thriving with systems like Takt, Last Planner, and Scrum, leveraging these lean principles to great effect. I recently worked with a contractor who shared how implementing these systems ensured all their projects were on schedule and profitable. It’s not as hard as it might seem, provided you have the discipline to follow proven methods.

The Potential of Underground Utility Contracting:

Having grown up watching companies like Conco Construction evolve into underground utility experts, I can confidently say that this business can be incredibly lucrative and fulfilling. Companies in this field are known for precision, consistency, and creating impactful projects. The work may involve technical challenges, but it’s highly manageable and rewarding.

Here’s an interesting observation: many successful utility contractors I know own impressive trucks and boats, symbolizing the financial success this industry can offer. While it’s not about flaunting wealth, it highlights how profitable this line of work can be when done well.

Key Responsibilities of a Utility Contractor:

So, what does a utility contractor actually do? Let’s break it down:

  1. Installation of Utility Infrastructure:
    Utility contractors install critical systems like water, sewer, stormwater, gas, electrical, and telecommunications infrastructure. It’s a highly specialized field requiring expertise and precision.
  2. Maintenance and Repair:
    Routine maintenance and emergency repairs, such as fixing leaks in water or gas lines, are a big part of the job. This requires deep technical knowledge and a keen eye for safety.
  3. Excavation and Trenching:
    If you’re passionate about heavy equipment and earthwork, this part of the job will excite you. Excavation and trenching are fundamental to laying utility lines.
  4. Coordination with Other Contractors:
    While coordination is minimal compared to other trades, utility contractors often need to navigate traffic, pedestrians, and spatial constraints on active job sites.
  5. Public and Private Utilities:
    Most utility work involves adhering to strict regulations and inspections, especially for public projects. However, private utility work tends to be more profitable, so balancing both is key.
  6. Testing and Quality Control:
    Ensuring systems are installed correctly involves rigorous testing, like pressure checks for water lines or TV inspections for gravity lines. Quality control and precise survey layout are vital for success.

Types of Utility Contractors:

Utility contracting is a diverse field with various specializations, such as plumbing, electrical, gas, telecommunications, and excavation. Some companies focus on onsite or offsite work, while others do both. Regardless of specialization, the industry offers ample opportunities to excel and grow.

Starting a Utility Contracting Business:

If you’re considering entering this trade, whether as an employee or a business owner, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Technical knowledge.
  • Safety awareness.
  • Heavy equipment operation skills.
  • Problem-solving abilities for unforeseen challenges.

This work is high-risk but also high-reward. It’s essential to master repeatable systems and processes to create a successful and efficient operation.

Final Thoughts:

Utility contracting is a remarkable field that combines technical expertise, financial rewards, and the satisfaction of contributing to essential infrastructure. If you’re interested in this line of work, dive in, gain experience, and work your way up. Whether you’re backing your new boat down the ramp or enjoying the pride of a job well done, this industry has so much to offer.

I hope this blog inspired you to explore the world of utility contracting!

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

How Can I Get A Construction License?

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

In this blog, I’ll share the most summarized way to get your construction license. This guide is concise yet comprehensive, and I believe you’ll appreciate the clarity and focus. Let’s dive in!

Importance of Planning Early for a Construction License:

If you’re looking to get your construction license—whether it’s a general contractor’s license or a specialty license—the best advice is to start planning early. Begin with the end in mind. Ask yourself:

  • Do you want to be a construction manager?
  • Do you want to work in design, engineering, or as a specialty contractor?

Each license type has its own requirements, but they share common prerequisites. I recently acquired my general contractor’s license and realized the value of early planning to meet experience requirements.

How to Start Planning and Gaining Experience:

  1. Think Long-Term:
    Reflect on your goals—what do you want to achieve in the next 15 years, 5 years, or even the next year? If having a contractor’s license is part of your future, start now.
  2. Meet Experience Requirements:
    Many licenses require 2-5 years of experience in your specific trade or role.
    • Get the qualifications needed to land relevant jobs.
    • Continuously learn and deliver results during this period.

How to Get the Right Education and Training:

Education and training are vital. Some licenses demand specific courses or certifications beyond work experience.

  • Plan Ahead:
    Consider the costs, duration, and how you’ll balance work and family commitments.
  • Budget:
    Save early or find cost-effective ways to complete your training.

Tips to Pass the Exam:

To get licensed, passing the required exam is crucial. Here’s how to prepare:

  • Study Materials:
    Obtain the necessary resources and establish a consistent study habit.
  • Budget for Courses:
    Courses can be costly. For instance, preparing for my general contractor’s license exam cost about $1,000. If you’re younger and starting out, this might feel substantial, so plan your finances accordingly.

How to Prepare for Insurance and Bonding:

If you’re aiming for a contractor’s license, you’ll need insurance and bonding. While this step can be handled through agencies, it’s good to have some savings set aside for these essentials.

How to Improve Financial Stability:

Financial stability is critical for obtaining and maintaining a construction license. While I’m not a financial advisor, here are tips based on my experience:

  • Read Valuable Resources:
    Books like Killing Sacred Cows and What Would the Rockefellers Do? can provide insights into cash flow and financial planning.
  • Establish Cash Flow:
    Consider options like whole-life insurance policies that allow you to borrow cash for business needs.

Final Tips for Getting a Construction License:

  • Background Check: Ensure your record is clean, as this is part of the licensing process.
  • Save for Application Fees: Set aside funds for application-related costs.
  • Define Your End Goal: Structure your plan and efforts to align with your long-term objectives.

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

How To Prioritize People Over Efficiency In Projects

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

How to Prioritize People Over Efficiency in Construction Projects

In this blog, I’ll share the proven approach to planning and executing construction projects that prioritize people without compromising efficiency or profitability. This method, which I’ve used repeatedly, creates a positive, sustainable environment that respects individuals while delivering exceptional results. If you’re interested in balancing respect for people with effective project outcomes, read on.

Why People Come First:

Construction isn’t just about steel and concrete—it’s about people. Respecting and caring for the individuals on your team is the foundation for project success. Every person involved has a right to:

  • Be treated with dignity.
  • Understand their role clearly.
  • Have their ideas considered.
  • Participate in planning and decision-making.

This people-first mindset isn’t just ethical; it’s practical. When you care for your employees, they’ll take better care of your clients and your projects.

Avoiding Overburdening in Construction:

A key principle of lean methodology, as embraced by Toyota, is to address overburdening first. Overburdening happens when workers are:

  • Pushed into unsafe or rushed conditions.
  • Expected to handle more than their capacity.
  • Forced to work overtime or in overcrowded zones.

Rather than starting with resource or work efficiency, prioritize stabilizing the work environment. This creates a foundation where efficiency can develop naturally, without harming people.

Strategies for People-First Project Management:

  1. Flow Planning:
    Create clear pull plans and ensure trades work in a steady flow. Avoid trade stacking (too many people in one area) and trade burdening (spreading resources too thin).
  2. Look-Ahead and Weekly Work Plans:
    Use these tools to align work with capacity and ensure tasks are achievable without overburdening teams.
  3. Design Around Bottlenecks:
    Identify areas where progress slows and adjust the design, equipment, or methods to reduce strain on workers.
  4. Safety, Cleanliness, and Organization:
    Ensure the site is always safe and organized to minimize stress and maximize efficiency.
  5. Visual Systems:
    Implement visual aids to track progress and identify constraints. These systems help teams work cohesively toward efficiency without rushing or pushing.

What Happens When Work Is Prioritized Over People:

Focusing solely on efficiency at the expense of people can lead to serious consequences:

  • Overworking and harming workers.
  • Unsafe job sites.
  • Increased accidents and mental health issues, including a high suicide rate among construction workers.

Rushing, pushing, and prioritizing value-receiving time over worker well-being is not just unethical—it’s counterproductive.

The Lean Way: People First, Efficiency Second:

Lean practices in construction emphasize protecting people first. Here’s the process:

  1. Respect and stabilize the team.
  2. Create a safe, organized, and clean environment.
  3. Work in a single process flow.
  4. Align tasks with capacity.
  5. Incrementally improve efficiency by addressing bottlenecks.

When you prioritize people, efficiency follows organically. A well-supported team is more productive, engaged, and capable of delivering outstanding results.

Conclusion:

The misconception that work efficiency should come first has no place in modern construction. By focusing on people, respecting their needs, and creating a stable environment, you can achieve both ethical practices and exceptional project outcomes.

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

Is My Project Actually On Schedule?

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Is My Project Actually on Schedule? Here’s How You Can Know for Sure

In construction, one of the most critical questions you can ask yourself is, “Is my project actually on schedule?” The answer doesn’t lie in your macro-level plan or even your norms. To truly determine whether your project is on track, you need to dig deeper into your short interval production plans, look-ahead plans, and weekly work plans. This is where the real tracking happens.

If you’re looking to improve your project scheduling and tracking process, this blog will walk you through exactly how to monitor progress effectively and adjust your plans as needed.

The Importance of Tracking with Short Interval Plans:

When managing construction projects, keeping an eye on the details is crucial. The macro-level plan is important, but it doesn’t always tell you what’s happening on the ground. To ensure you’re staying on schedule, you need to compare your real-time progress with the short interval plans. This allows you to spot any deviations early and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.

One key to successful construction projects is the ability to finish as you go. This doesn’t always show up in your larger plans but becomes evident when you compare your daily or weekly progress with your production plans. It’s crucial to track and update your plans as conditions change on the job site.

Tracking Progress on the Ground:

Let’s take a look at an example from a project we’re currently working on. In this case, I’m on level three of the building, and I have both the look-ahead and weekly work plans for the area. These plans include zone maps and other helpful information that make it easy to identify what’s happening in each zone. For example, I can see that the room I’m in is zone number seven, and the last task listed in that zone is final clean.

The room is mostly finished, but I notice that some tasks are still pending. Permanent power isn’t in place yet, which means lighting, commissioning, and final cleaning can’t be completed. This is a real-world issue that affects the schedule. By recognizing the gap between the plan and actual progress, I can update the production plan to reflect this and communicate with the team to adjust accordingly.

The Power of the Weekly Work Plan:

While the look-ahead plan is useful for visualizing the bigger picture, the weekly work plan is even more detailed and helps you focus on specific tasks for the week. With the weekly work plan, you can break down activities by zone and track progress step-by-step. This makes it easier to see where any delays are occurring and where handoffs between teams need to happen.

Keeping these plans updated is essential. Conditions on the job site can change quickly, and the only way to manage these changes is by adjusting your plans to reflect reality. Field walks are key for this—superintendents and field engineers need to be out on the site with their plans in hand, updating them as they go.

How to Know If Your Project Is on Schedule:

So, how can you be sure your project is on schedule? The answer is simple: compare your real-time field progress with the short interval plans. If you’re not doing field walks and actively comparing what’s happening on the ground with your production plans, you won’t have an accurate understanding of your project’s status.

This is where the true value of tracking comes in. Field walks and consistent updates ensure that your production plans are realistic and reflect the current state of the project. If you’re not updating your plans, you’re essentially operating in the dark.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Field walks are essential: You cannot rely solely on office discussions or project software. You need boots on the ground to verify progress.
  2. Always update your plans: As conditions change, update your production and work plans to reflect the current situation.
  3. Use short interval plans: Regularly track your progress against short interval plans and adjust as needed to stay on track.
  4. Collaborate with the team: Share updates with the team, especially the foreman huddle, so everyone is on the same page about where things stand.

Conclusion:

To truly know if your project is on schedule, you must actively compare real-life field progress with your short interval production plans. This requires field walks, consistent updates to your plans, and collaboration with your team to address deviations and adjust schedules in real time. Relying solely on macro-level plans or office discussions will leave you blind to critical on-site realities.

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

Things To Consider With Exterior Construction

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Things to Consider with Exterior Construction: Essential Tips for Better Planning

In this blog, we’ll discuss some key factors to keep in mind when scheduling and planning for exterior systems in construction. These considerations are crucial for ensuring safety and improving both exterior and interior planning, which will enhance your pre-construction process. Let’s dive into some of the best practices that will help you in planning exterior systems effectively.

How to Sequence the Exteriors & Interiors Together:

A crucial aspect of scheduling exterior systems is ensuring that the exterior and interior construction phases are sequenced together. This requires creating production zones for the exterior, then synchronizing them with interior systems.

How to Determine Where to Start Construction:

Now, you may be wondering, how do we know where to start exterior construction? It’s not as simple as just picking a corner. The answer lies in understanding how the interior systems need to flow and how the exterior systems will accommodate this.

Scheduling & Sequencing Areas in Your Project:

When you’re working on a building like this, it’s important to break the project into production areas. This will allow you to sequence each area properly. One of the key things to remember is that if there’s a gap between interior and exterior construction, it needs to be addressed in your schedule. You may need to plan comeback areas and leave-outs, and it’s crucial to ensure that these areas meet the exterior once it’s complete.

In some cases, you’ll need to schedule comeback rooms or areas where hoists or crane operations left gaps. These need to be accounted for and brought back into the schedule when the rest of the exterior work is finished.

What NOT to Do When Scheduling a Project:

A mistake I often see is when project teams simply follow a directional sequence like East, South, West, North without considering the logistics and flow of the construction. Don’t fall into the trap of making arbitrary choices. It’s important to intentionally break down the exterior areas into zones, come up with a logical sequence, and plan everything carefully.

In conclusion, being intentional about how you approach exterior scheduling is vital. Minimize comeback areas, synchronize exterior and interior flows, and ensure everything works together for a well-coordinated and timely finish.

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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Construction Senior Project Manager Salary

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Understanding Senior Project Manager Salaries and Career Growth

“Construction senior project manager salary” is a frequently searched term across platforms like Google, YouTube, and even ChatGPT. If you’re wondering about the average salary for a Senior Project Manager (SPM) in construction and what it takes to thrive in this role, you’re in the right place. This blog breaks down salary ranges, what it means to be an SPM, and practical steps to advance your career.

Average Base Salary of a Senior Project Manager:

In the United States, the annual base salary for a Senior Project Manager varies significantly depending on project complexity, company size, and location:

  • Base Salary: $110,000 to $170,000 USD.
  • High-end Salary: $170,000 to $200,000+ USD.

For those managing complex commercial or industrial construction projects, salaries can surpass $200,000 annually. In addition to the base salary, benefits such as retirement contributions, bonuses, and stock options can increase total compensation to $260,000–$360,000 or more.

How to Become a Senior Project Manager:

Becoming an SPM is not just about tenure—it’s about skill and expertise. Here’s how you can carve out a path to this rewarding role:

  1. Field Experience: Start as a field-focused project engineer or field manager to gain hands-on experience.
  2. Technical Mastery: Learn the roles of key team members like superintendents and estimators, and understand how to manage preconstruction effectively.
  3. Leadership Skills: Build strong teams, communicate effectively, and manage projects from start to finish with an eye on risk assessment and planning.
  4. Client Relations: Prioritize customer service and sales skills to ensure successful project outcomes.
  5. Industry Knowledge: Stay current with the latest industry trends, lean construction methods, and software tools.

Being an SPM means you’re not just managing projects; you’re setting them up for success, leading teams effectively, and ensuring client satisfaction.

Key Skills of a Senior Project Manager:

A successful SPM demonstrates:

  • Expertise in preconstruction planning and execution.
  • Mastery of cost estimation and risk management.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to lead teams and manage clients.
  • Proficiency with construction software and lean construction principles.

At the senior level, the only thing separating you from a Project Director or Executive role is the size and complexity of the projects you handle.

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

What Is A Schedule Of Values In Construction?

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

What is a Schedule of Values in Construction?

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the concept of the Schedule of Values (SOV) in construction—what it is, why it’s essential, and how to utilize it effectively for your projects. I’ve broken down the concept into simple terms that anyone can understand, with the goal of distinguishing between value and waste.

What is a Schedule of Values?

A Schedule of Values is a detailed document that breaks down the total project cost into smaller components. These components include phases, specific trades, or scopes of work, which are assigned monetary values that sum up to the total contract value.

It acts as a roadmap for tracking project progress, ensuring accurate payments, and monitoring costs from subcontractors to general contractors (GCs) and from GCs to project owners.

My Journey with the Schedule of Values:

When I started in construction, the term “schedule of values” was often thrown around, but I had no clear understanding of it. Without resources like Google or tools such as ChatGPT back then, I had to learn the hard way.

Years later, as I moved into higher management and ran our own construction company, I realized how critical this system is. Mastering it has become a priority, as it directly impacts cash flow, project success, and accurate billing.

Key Components of a Schedule of Values:

  1. Line Items:
    The project is divided into major work categories, such as site preparation, foundations, framing, plumbing, and finishes.
  2. Assigned Values:
    Each line item is assigned a dollar amount representing its portion of the project budget.
  3. Pay Applications:
    Payment applications are tied to the SOV, showing how much of each category is completed and invoiced.
  4. Project Percentages:
    For example, if 50% of the electrical work is complete, 50% of that category’s budget is invoiced. This ensures clarity and avoids overbilling or underbilling.
  5. Retainage:
    Retainage is money held back (usually 5-10%) to ensure all work, including punch lists and warranty items, is completed before full payment is made.
  6. Adjustments & Change Orders:
    Any change orders are allocated to specific SOV categories, ensuring accurate tracking and reflecting adjustments in the project budget.

Why is a Schedule of Values Crucial?

Here are some advantages of using a well-structured SOV:

  1. Transparency:
    It provides clear visibility into how project finances are distributed and how progress is measured.
  2. Payment Management:
    It facilitates accurate billing and cash flow for both contractors and owners.
  3. Project Monitoring:
    By comparing actual costs to budgeted costs, disputes can be minimized and resolved effectively.
  4. Contractual Requirement:
    Many contracts mandate the use of an SOV, making it an essential tool for compliance.
  5. Dispute Resolution:
    If disputes arise, the detailed breakdown in the SOV serves as a reliable reference point for resolving budget-related issues.

Mastering the SOV can transform your approach to financial management in construction. After a few projects, you’ll refine your methods and unlock its full potential.

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