Lean Built

Author: Danny Jiménez⁩

Day In The Life Of A Field Engineer – Building from the Ground Up

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Are you interested in learning what it’s like to be a field engineer? Let’s dive into what a typical day might look like, the key responsibilities involved, and some tips for making the most of the experience. Field engineering is a unique, dynamic role essential to project success. This blog will give you a firsthand look at what it means to excel in this position and how to approach it with a mindset for success.

Field Engineering: A Passionate Craft

Field engineering is at the heart of construction. I’m a big fan of the Field Engineering Methods Manual written by West Crawford, an emeritus professor from Purdue University. This manual captures the traditional and evolving techniques of field engineering, a critical role for training future superintendents and project managers. In recent years, many companies are reinstating the field engineer position, seeing its value in the successful administration and execution of projects. Let’s explore how this impactful role can shape the construction landscape.

The Role of a Field Engineer

Field engineers work closely with teams on-site to perform essential tasks, including:

  • Layout and control: Establishing layout control for buildings, from primary to secondary working controls, to ensure accuracy and consistency.
  • Lift drawings: Combining information from various sources to create lift drawings for work packages.
  • Frontline safety and quality management: Proactively managing safety and quality on the front lines.

Starting the Day Right

Every great day starts with a strong routine. I recommend beginning with a morning exercise, a good breakfast, and some time for gratitude. On your drive to the job site, listen to an educational podcast or audiobook to get your mind geared up for the day. The journey home can be reserved for lighter material, like music or fiction, to unwind. These routines can set the tone for a productive and positive day.

Arriving at the Job Site

Once on-site, head to the field engineer Bullpen and start planning for the day with your team. This initial team huddle is crucial for discussing tasks, coordinating inspections, and looking ahead at the next one to six weeks. Once you’ve completed the group planning, it’s time to list out your own tasks for the day. Time-blocking these activities before diving into the work ensures that you stay organized and aligned with the overall project plan.

Carving Out Quiet Time for Lift Drawings

Early mornings are ideal for focused work, especially when creating lift drawings. Arriving early—before the busier parts of the day kick in—gives you quiet time to consolidate information, work in programs like AutoCAD or Bluebeam, and ensure accuracy in your drawings. This focused time helps prevent mistakes and keeps the project moving smoothly.

Planning for Layout and Control

Another valuable morning activity is layout and control planning. Use your floor plans or civil sheets to create sketches of the day’s layout, including benchmarks and any necessary measurements. Sketches serve as a guide for layout work and make it easy to verify accuracy during the day.

Engaging in the Morning Worker Huddle

If you’re part of a lean-running project, the morning worker huddle is a powerful way to get everyone aligned. This meeting brings together all workers to review the plan for the day and raise any needs or concerns. Field engineers play an essential role here, ensuring the crew has all they need and sometimes even leading the huddle if part of a training process.

Out in the Field: Layout, Quality, and Crew Enablement

After morning planning, field engineers typically have one of two tasks: layout or quality control. Safety remains a priority, but enabling the crew through clear, precise layout and well-prepared work packages is key. You work closely with superintendents and foremen to provide lift drawings, layout sketches, and safety controls that the crew needs to perform their jobs effectively.

Managing Zone Control and Quality Control

As a project progresses, zone control and quality control become increasingly important. You help the superintendent manage smooth zone handoffs and ensure work areas are ready for the next trade partner. This includes coordinating inspections, facilitating smooth transitions, and assisting with above-ceiling and in-wall inspections. Field engineers support quality and safety across every phase—not just during the initial layout and foundation stages.

Wrapping Up: Afternoon Foreman Huddle and Planning

At the end of the day, field engineers participate in the afternoon foreman huddle, where the team reflects on the day’s progress and plans for tomorrow. This time is invaluable for ensuring alignment and addressing any issues that may have come up during the day. After the huddle, field engineers finalize plans for the next day’s work. Heading home, unwind with something light, recharge, and return ready for another day.

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 Survive A Third-Party Audit For Construction Scheduling

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

In the construction industry, third-party audits for scheduling can often feel more like a nightmare than a constructive process. Whether you’re a contractor, a project manager, or a trades partner, understanding the dynamics of these audits is crucial—not only for maintaining sanity but also for protecting your project and your team from unnecessary stress. Let’s dive into what to expect during a third-party audit and the steps you can take to emerge unscathed.

Why Third-Party Audits Are Often Problematic

The goal of third-party audits may be to ensure accountability and progress. However, when done with CPM (Critical Path Method) schedules and a rigid, often toxic approach, these audits can create more harm than good. Instead of providing actionable feedback, many third-party auditors end up focusing on compliance over collaboration, tearing down work rather than helping teams build better processes.

A CPM schedule, after all, does little to improve on-the-ground production or to manage work in a way that adapts to a project’s real-time needs. Instead, it often becomes a tool for auditors to scrutinize minor variances or delays and leverage them against contractors—frequently leading to stressful audits that impact not only projects but also personal lives and mental health.

The Realities of Going Through a Third-Party Audit

If you’re facing an audit, expect a grueling process that can affect both your work and personal life. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main phases and what to be prepared for:

  1. Preparation and Planning Phase: Auditors will review your project documentation and lay out their objectives. Ensure every “I” is dotted and “t” is crossed here because this is where the digging begins.
  2. Schedule Analysis Phase: Auditors will compare your baseline schedule with the current reality, often highlighting any variances or slippage. Don’t be discouraged by this scrutiny—every project has its delays, and they’re a natural part of construction.
  3. Critical Path and Logic Reviews: This is where things can get tricky. Auditors typically insist on analyzing the critical path as though it’s the only valid measure of success, disregarding the complex reality of a project’s flow and dependencies. They may also force illogical connections between tasks, distorting your schedule to fit their rigid standards.
  4. Interviews and Scheduling Practices Evaluation: Expect questioning around your scheduling methods. Often, auditors will push for outdated practices, offering recommendations that could turn a well-functioning plan into an impractical one.
  5. Findings and Recommendations: After the review, auditors will present their findings. While these recommendations might seem aimed at improving your schedule, implementing them can often lead to impractical changes that hinder rather than help.
  6. Follow-Up and Corrective Actions: Auditors expect you to address their findings. However, following all recommendations to the letter might compromise your project. Sometimes, separating your builder schedule from the one used to satisfy auditors can be necessary to keep your project on track.

Key Survival Tips for a Third-Party Audit

To emerge from an audit with your schedule intact and your peace of mind preserved, here are some key strategies:

  • Use Takt Planning: A Takt-based approach, which focuses on flow and production balance, is far more effective than CPM. It allows for real-time adjustments that help your project stay aligned without overloading teams.
  • Follow Contract Requirements Precisely: Adhering to every contract requirement with meticulous detail keeps you above reproach, reducing opportunities for auditors to criticize.
  • Stand Up Against Disrespectful Behavior: Don’t accept disrespectful or abusive treatment. It’s acceptable to set boundaries with auditors or owners if their behavior becomes unprofessional.
  • Enforce Flow Rules: Insist on practices that maintain flow, like limiting unnecessary labor increases, preventing excessive material staging, and maintaining manageable work-in-progress levels.

When Updating Schedules, Follow These Rules

If you’re making adjustments to your schedules, always remember:

  • Keep Trade Flow Diagonal: Maintain flow in your schedule to avoid chaotic disruptions.
  • Preserve Logical Ties and Duration: Don’t make arbitrary cuts in duration or stack work without considering capacity.
  • Build in Buffers: Include adequate buffers to absorb unforeseen delays without derailing the entire project.
  • Focus on the Path of Critical Flow: Look at the critical flow that includes buffers, sequence, and line-of-balance, rather than fixating on the critical path alone.

Conclusion

Surviving a third-party audit requires a firm focus on takt planning, strict contract adherence, and standing up against any disrespect. Keep your project’s flow intact by following practical scheduling principles, and don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance if needed.

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 Level Up Your Construction Team With Effective Training

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Training is a powerful investment for any organization, and for construction teams, it’s the key to developing the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for success. In this blog, I’ll share some of the best practices and types of training that can truly elevate your team’s performance. Drawing from my own experiences, including my time at Hensel Phelps, I’ll provide insights into how you can structure and maximize training programs for lasting impact.

Why Training Matters in Construction

Throughout my career, I’ve seen the immense value of training firsthand. At Hensel Phelps, where I spent 14 years, training was embedded in the culture. Weekly team meetings were dedicated to coordinating training schedules, ensuring everyone—from field engineers to office staff—was continually learning. This wasn’t just a one-off effort; it was an ongoing commitment that boosted team morale, competence, and efficiency.

This approach isn’t unique to Hensel Phelps; it aligns with other high-stakes fields like the military. For example, Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, authors of Extreme Ownership, emphasize how military units train, plan, and prepare before executing missions. They approach each mission with a combination of simulation exercises, mock-ups, and contingency planning, allowing them to operate effectively in decentralized, high-pressure environments. This military mindset is a perfect fit for construction: if we train like we intend to perform, our teams can approach every project with clarity, confidence, and resilience.

Building a Skill Set, Brick by Brick

In construction, specialized skills are essential. Over the years, I’ve trained in AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, P6, and Microsoft Project. I learned field layout, control techniques, and construction scheduling, among others. These skills, developed methodically through various training programs, have enabled me to perform across many roles, from field engineer to project management. I encourage every company and every team to invest in skill-building. It’s a pathway to creating well-rounded professionals who can handle diverse challenges on the job.

How to Implement Effective Training in Your Organization

To help you get started with setting up or enhancing your training programs, here are a few tips:

  1. Field Engineering Training Programs
    The best construction companies offer comprehensive field engineering programs that cover the essentials, like quality, safety, and lift drawings. Resources like Construction Surveying and Layout by Wesley Crawford provide a solid foundation for field engineering. Additionally, consider implementing a Field Engineer Boot Camp to give new team members hands-on experience.
  2. Role-Based Training and Scorecards
    Every organization should establish role-specific training that aligns with their operational systems. An organized approach, like creating a clear project delivery system and conducting training based on these principles, can simplify and standardize knowledge. Role-specific scorecards in a Learning Management System (LMS) can also track and reinforce training progress.
  3. Safety, Quality, and Leadership Training
    Safety and quality training are non-negotiables, but don’t overlook diversity and leadership training. Programs like Echelon Front’s muster events offer powerful leadership lessons. These experiences help team members develop a more well-rounded understanding of what it means to lead on a construction site.
  4. Learning Methodologies
    Implement “learn-teach-learn” methods to make training interactive. With this approach, team members learn material in a group, teach it to one another, and internalize knowledge through repetition. This method fosters a collaborative learning environment, making knowledge transfer more effective.
  5. Leveraging External and Internal Resources
    Your training options are vast: in-house programs, external certifications, online courses, and industry events. I’ve invested thousands over the years in personal development, taking advantage of certifications and specialized courses. Companies should encourage and support employees in doing the same.

Final Thoughts

Training isn’t just an operational cost—it’s an investment in your people, your projects, and your profitability. If you prioritize and expand your training programs, you’ll see the benefits in productivity, quality, and employee satisfaction. Take time to evaluate where you can level up your training and leverage all available resources to give your team the best chance for success.

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 Meetings: The Non-Negotiables You MUST Follow

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Pre-Construction Meetings: The Non-Negotiables for Success

If you’re interested in setting up your trade partners for success right from the start, following a disciplined pre-construction process is crucial. In this blog, we’ll explore the essential components of the pre-construction meeting that can make all the difference in how smoothly a construction project unfolds.

Understanding the Trade Partner Preparation Process

To begin, let’s look at the trade partner preparation process, which includes several key steps:

  1. Buyout Process: Where you find the right trade partner.
  2. Executed Contract: After buyout, you secure an executed contract.
  3. Pre-Mobilization Meeting: A critical step to prepare contractors, ideally scheduled about two to three weeks in advance of the pre-construction meeting.
  4. Pre-Construction Meeting (Pre-Con): This is the main event. Here, the project team, including the superintendent, field engineer, and the trade partner’s foreman, come together to set clear expectations for the work package, document them, and get everyone on the same page.

After this meeting, work can officially begin, followed by inspections at key milestones: first-in-place inspection, follow-up inspections, and a final inspection before demobilization.

Why Pre-Con Meetings Are Essential

In my experience, a project is unlikely to succeed without a structured pre-con meeting. I’ll go on record saying I wouldn’t consider running or consulting on a project that doesn’t prioritize this step. The pre-con meeting is where we lay the groundwork for the work package, which is vital for a successful project.

Who Prepares the Work Package?

The responsibility for preparing the work package falls to the project manager (PM), project engineer (PE), and superintendent, with a special role for the field engineer. The field engineer works in tandem with the foreman to create lift drawings, layout, and address necessary RFIs. This preparation leads to a comprehensive installation work package that the crew can use in the field.

An installation work package isn’t about micromanagement; it’s about empowering the crew to see all requirements clearly so they can deliver to expectations.

The Purpose of Pre-Construction Meetings

The ultimate purpose of pre-con meetings is to develop a solid installation work package. Each meeting – buyout, pre-mobilization, and pre-con – contributes to building this document, which should be readily accessible, visual, and easy to understand for the crew on the ground.

A well-prepared installation work package should include:

  1. Build Your Lego (Page 1): This covers the activity, duration, Takt time, and overall work sequence.
  2. Speed Optimization (Page 2): Details on how to maximize efficiency without compromising worker safety.
  3. Ideas for Improvement (Page 3): Insights on design, prefabrication, logistics, and other ways to streamline the work package.

Additional pages can cover plans, specs, installation instructions, lift and layout drawings, safety preparation, and quality checklists. The goal is to provide straightforward information that allows the crew to perform at their best without uncertainty.

Non-Negotiables for Pre-Construction Meetings

Here are the five non-negotiables that should be present in every pre-construction process:

  1. Conduct a Pre-Mobilization Meeting: Set up the project for success by preparing the team and trade partners early on.
  2. Hold a Pre-Con Meeting: Schedule this well in advance to give time for thorough preparation.
  3. Develop an Installation Work Package: This should be built up throughout the trade partner preparation process.
  4. Ensure Key Participants are Present: The foreman, superintendent, and field engineer must all be involved. This meeting should be rescheduled if these key players are unprepared or absent.
  5. Require the Installation Work Package for All Meetings: Make sure every inspection, pull plan, and look-ahead review leverages this document to maintain alignment.

The Benefits of a Disciplined Pre-Con Process

Following this structured approach allows you to establish clear expectations, create a culture of preparation, and ensure the crew has the tools they need to succeed. With the right people, the right document, and the right processes in place, projects can run smoothly and deliver quality results.

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

Conditions of Satisfaction: The Blueprint for Success

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Conditions of Satisfaction: The Blueprint for Success

In this blog, I’m going to discuss what conditions of satisfaction are, how they should be used, and what their components are. I’ll also share ways you can identify and implement these conditions in your projects. Let’s dive in!

What Are Conditions of Satisfaction?

To explain conditions of satisfaction, let’s start with a fun analogy I often use. Think about going to Cold Stone ice cream and ordering your favorite custom creation. For me, it’s butter pecan with sweet cream, three scoops of chocolate shavings, and caramel—served in a little cup (because I try to stay healthy, of course!). I hand over my five bucks, and I expect them to deliver exactly what I’ve ordered. If they bring me something completely different—say, chocolate ice cream with macadamia nuts in a waffle cone—I’m not happy, and they’re not going to get my money.

This is where the concept of conditions of satisfaction comes into play. For a business to receive what they’ve asked for, they must deliver the product or service exactly as the customer wants it. Conditions of satisfaction are all about defining what meets the needs and wants of the customer in the most satisfactory way possible.

In the world of lean thinking, frameworks like respect for people and continuous improvement constantly revolve around meeting customer needs. Regardless of the model, the goal is always to satisfy the customer’s conditions of satisfaction.

Determining Conditions of Satisfaction

When defining the conditions of satisfaction for any project or effort, start by thinking about the following:

  1. Who are the customers involved? Identify all the primary customers, stakeholders, and anyone else who has a stake in the success of your project.
  2. What do the stakeholders need or want? Treat all parties as customers and design your efforts to meet these needs.
  3. What are the overall goals? Whether it’s meeting a client’s request, staying within budget, or ensuring safety, understanding everyone’s conditions of satisfaction will help you achieve a win-win situation for everyone involved.

When you clearly define the conditions of satisfaction, you’re setting up a blueprint for success. By understanding these conditions from the start, everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals.

Using Conditions of Satisfaction in Various Contexts

Conditions of satisfaction aren’t just for large projects. They can be used in a variety of contexts, from planning meetings to training sessions. Here are some examples where you can implement conditions of satisfaction:

  • For a single task or pull plan: Define what success looks like for each specific task and ensure that conditions of satisfaction are met before moving forward.
  • For a project phase or entire project: Apply conditions of satisfaction to each stage of the project to ensure all parties are on the same page.
  • For a client or preconstruction engagement: Understand the customer’s requirements and expectations from the start so there are no surprises down the road.

A great example of conditions of satisfaction comes from the Scrum methodology, where the “definition of done” (DOD) outlines what is required for a task to be considered complete. In Scrum, every activity or component on the board has a clear DOD to avoid ambiguity, ensuring all tasks meet the agreed-upon conditions of satisfaction.

The Importance of Conditions of Satisfaction in Construction

In construction, knowing the conditions of satisfaction before beginning any task is essential. When you’re clear about what needs to be accomplished, the “how” will naturally follow. By focusing on the what (conditions of satisfaction), the project is more likely to align with the expectations of all stakeholders.

So, how can you apply conditions of satisfaction to your work? Here are some key areas to consider:

  1. Quality Standards: What quality standards are expected by the stakeholders? Defining these helps ensure all efforts meet the agreed-upon criteria.
  2. Timeline: Understand the acceptable timeline and milestone dates. Having clear expectations about the timeline helps keep the project on track.
  3. Budget: Define what the budget is and how it will be allocated across categories. This avoids cost overruns and keeps the project aligned with financial expectations.
  4. Safety: Safety is a top priority in construction. Be sure to understand and communicate the safety conditions of satisfaction for every task.
  5. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that all legal and contractual requirements are understood and met. This is essential for avoiding compliance issues down the line.
  6. Client Requests or Requirements: Always know and communicate the client’s requests, as they are integral to delivering on the project’s success.
  7. Sustainability Goals: Understand any sustainability goals that the project may have, and align your efforts accordingly.

Conclusion

Conditions of satisfaction are the foundation of a successful project. Whether you’re tackling a small task or managing a large project, knowing what success looks like for all involved parties is critical. By defining clear conditions from the outset, you can ensure that expectations are met, and all stakeholders are aligned.

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

Foreman Masterclass: How To Use Crew Boards & Work Packages!

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Mastering Field Coordination: Using Crew Boards and Work Packages

In this blog, we’ll explore how to use crew boards and installation work packages to improve communication, planning, and work execution for field crews. If you’re a foreman or crew lead looking to enhance how your team operates, these tools will help empower your workers to take charge of quality, logistics, and daily planning. Let’s dive into the Trade Partner Preparation Process, the essentials of Installation Work Packages, and the impact of effective crew boards.

  1. Key Steps in the Trade Partner Preparation Process

To prepare your team and trade partners effectively, there are several critical stages you need to follow:

  • Buyout: Secure the trade partner for the specific scope of work.
  • Contract Execution: Ensure the contract is signed, and the trade partner is compliant.
  • Pre-Mobilization Meeting: Clearly define the deliverables required by the preconstruction meeting.
  • Preconstruction Meeting: Review essential details with foremen and superintendents to set expectations.
  • Work Start & Initial Inspection: Conduct a first-in-place inspection to confirm quality.
  • Ongoing Inspections: Perform regular follow-ups and a final inspection to ensure quality and compliance.

These steps ensure that your crew understands expectations from the outset, reducing the chance of rework and misunderstandings.

  1. How to Create an Effective Installation Work Package (IWP)

An Installation Work Package (IWP) is a vital document that holds all necessary information for the crew to execute their work with clarity and confidence. A well-structured IWP includes:

  • Scope and Activity Details: Clear instructions about what work is to be completed in a specific zone.
  • Cycle Time: Projected duration for each activity, helping the crew manage time effectively.
  • Plans, Specifications, and Layouts: Includes all necessary drawings and any lift layouts required for the task.
  • Job Hazard Analysis (JHA): Covers safety requirements to ensure worker protection.
  • Quality Expectations: Lists standards and checks to guarantee work meets project requirements.

Starting the IWP process early—during buyout, contract review, and pre-mobilization—allows crews to familiarize themselves with all relevant details and requirements. By finalizing the package in the preconstruction meeting, the crew can go to work with everything they need in hand.

  1. Benefits of Using Crew Boards

Crew boards are a powerful tool for visual communication and planning. Here’s how they enhance crew efficiency:

  • Lookahead Plan: This shows the 6-week forecast of tasks, allowing teams to prepare for upcoming work.
  • Weekly Work Plan: Provides weekly goals, handoffs, and commitments to keep everyone on track.
  • Day Planning and Logistics: Allows foremen to sketch the day’s activities, set up material staging, and assign work zones.
  • Daily Agenda and Safety Updates: Ensures the crew is briefed on potential hazards and priorities for the day.

Front Side of the Crew Board: Houses the lookahead plan, weekly work plan, day plan, and logistics. It allows the crew to visualize tasks, plan for safe material handling, and coordinate resources on-site.

Back Side of the Crew Board: Stores work packages that are specific to the crew’s tasks, such as installation instructions, quality checks, and safety protocols. These packets provide easy reference materials that each subgroup or crew member can access on the spot.

  1. Empowering the Crew Through Visual Tools

By using crew boards and IWPs, foremen can address common issues like unclear expectations or repeated discussions of requirements. This system:

  • Encourages Problem-Solving: When crew members have the necessary documents on hand, they’re empowered to identify issues and proactively solve them.
  • Prevents Defective Work: With the right visual tools, crews can stop work to address quality concerns before they progress.
  • Enables Decentralized Command: Crew members have the resources to work independently within the strategic plan, fostering a more efficient workflow.

This method helps create an environment where expectations are clear, quality standards are maintained, and each team member understands their role in achieving the project’s goals.

Conclusion

Using crew boards and IWPs effectively streamlines communication, organizes work processes, and places control into the hands of the crew. This empowers them to work with greater autonomy and confidence, ultimately leading to higher quality and more efficient project completion.

If you’re ready to implement these strategies and elevate your field operations, start by setting up your crew boards and work packages today!

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

The Step-by-Step Guide To Updating Your Takt Plan Mid-Project

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

In construction, change is inevitable. One of the most common questions we get is: How do you update your Takt plan throughout a project, especially mid-project? This blog breaks down the step-by-step process of updating your production plan, the rules to follow, and tips for managing delays efficiently. Let’s dive into the details!

Why Baselines Aren’t Effective in Construction

First, let’s discuss baselines. A baseline schedule sets the initial project plan against which progress is measured. However, traditional baseline schedules often don’t accommodate the dynamic nature of construction. If the work breakdown structure, activity IDs, or logic sequences change, comparing to the original baseline becomes impossible. A rigid baseline can lead to unrealistic expectations and restricts necessary updates. Instead, think of your Takt plan as a living document, one that adapts as the project evolves.

What Is a Macro-Level Takt Plan?

The macro-level Takt plan provides the high-level view of the project. Typically created during preconstruction, this initial production plan is developed on a 5-day Takt time, helping to define overall project duration, milestones, and budget estimates. This macro-level plan serves as the foundation, ensuring that milestones are set with realistic timelines.

Updating the Takt Plan in Stages

Updating a Takt plan isn’t a one-time action; it happens at multiple stages:

  1. Pull Plan Creation – The first update to your macro-level plan happens when you create the pull plan for each milestone. This process involves scheduling backward from each milestone to ensure tasks align, which automatically updates your sequence and adjusts the production schedule.
  2. Norm-Level Takt Plan – Once you have your pull plan, you develop a more detailed, optimized plan called the norm-level Takt plan. This is the production-level Takt plan, which refines tasks with specific sequences and buffers to create a realistic schedule.
  3. 6-Week Look-Ahead – Your team should then identify a 6-week look-ahead plan, considering any changes that may have occurred since the last update.
  4. Weekly Work Plan – Finally, the weekly work plan breaks down immediate tasks, allowing for minor adjustments that are responsive to day-to-day project needs.

These four layers – from macro-level to weekly work – ensure that your Takt plan is consistently updated to meet real-world conditions.

Real-Time Field Adjustments

Effective Takt planning includes active adjustments in the field. Superintendents, field engineers, and foremen carry the weekly work plan, updating it based on real-time progress. Completed tasks are checked off, and any unfinished work is noted, allowing the norm-level Takt plan to loop back and inform upcoming schedules.

This cyclical updating system keeps the Takt plan responsive, adjusting to field realities and keeping the entire team aligned.

Strategies for Handling Delays

Despite careful planning, delays are inevitable. Here are some proven strategies to manage them without disrupting your flow:

  • Cascade Delays: Allow minor delays to eat into buffers, preventing them from cascading into major setbacks.
  • Sequence Adjustments: Rearrange tasks where possible to maintain momentum.
  • Rezone for Speed: Consider increasing the number of zones, allowing for more work to be completed in parallel.

These delay strategies help keep your Takt plan flexible and adaptive to real-world challenges.

Key Rules for Updating Your Production Plans

To ensure updates are smooth and effective, adhere to these core principles:

  1. Maintain Diagonal Trade Flow – Keep trades moving sequentially from one zone to the next.
  2. Preserve Logic – Avoid removing or dissolving logic ties within the Takt plan.
  3. Respect Durations – Avoid arbitrary duration cuts; respect the time needed for quality work.
  4. Prevent Trade Stacking and Burdening – Avoid crowding trades into one area or spreading them too thin.
  5. One-Piece Flow – Plan, build, and finish each work package before moving to the next.
  6. Use Full-Kit Planning – Ensure resources are available for each task before it begins.
  7. Maintain Buffers – Use buffers strategically to absorb unforeseen delays.
  8. Have Workable Backlog – Ensure there’s backlog work available to pull from if delays occur.
  9. Keep Plans Flexible – Avoid locking your plan; keep it adaptable to changing circumstances.
  10. Follow the Path of Critical Flow – Analyze the entire critical flow, including logic ties and buffers, rather than focusing on isolated critical paths.

Following these principles allows for continuous improvement in the Takt plan, keeping projects on track even in the face of unpredictable challenges.

Conclusion

Updating your Takt plan throughout the project lifecycle is essential for adapting to on-site realities. Remember, a good Takt plan is a flexible one. By maintaining flow, sticking to key rules, and preparing for delays, you’ll be equipped to keep your project moving forward smoothly.

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 Advanced Work Packaging?

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

In this blog, we’re taking a deep dive into the essentials of Advanced Work Packaging (AWP). AWP is a structured approach designed for complex projects, particularly in industries like oil and gas, to boost productivity and shorten project timelines. This post will give you a foundational understanding of AWP, its core components, and my take on its benefits and limitations in broader construction.

What is Advanced Work Packaging?

At its core, Advanced Work Packaging is a method for organizing project work into manageable sections, or “work packages.” Originally developed to streamline massive projects, AWP aims to ensure each phase—from engineering to installation—flows smoothly. In this blog, I’ll walk through AWP’s basic structure, explain its benefits, and share some points for further research if you’re interested in diving deeper into this methodology.

Key Components of AWP

Here’s a breakdown of AWP’s main components:

  1. Integrated Work Packaging
    Integrated work packaging is about organizing tasks into work packages, each detailing the materials, labor, and sequencing necessary for a specific part of the project. This approach allows for comprehensive planning and execution, reducing delays caused by missing resources or unclear responsibilities.
  2. Collaborative Planning and Execution
    In collaborative planning, every discipline—from engineering to construction—is aligned from the outset. The idea is that when everyone is on the same page, the process flows with fewer delays and miscommunications. This type of planning ensures a cohesive effort from the initial engineering stages to the final installation.
  3. Systematic Work Breakdown Structure
    Work breakdown structures (WBS) are common in project management, but in AWP, they are uniquely designed to allow logical sequencing of work packages. By mapping out the path of construction, AWP creates a clear roadmap for each project phase, helping teams stay organized and focused.
  4. Planning and Sequencing of Work
    Effective planning and sequencing are essential in AWP. This component considers spatial, labor, and resource constraints to optimize each work package. The goal is to have each package ready and fully equipped to minimize interruptions on site.
  5. Utilization of 3D Models
    Advanced 3D models are key in AWP, as they allow teams to visualize the project at every step. These models facilitate integrated design, procurement, and conflict resolution. In my experience, 3D modeling brings a level of clarity and alignment that is invaluable for large-scale projects.
  6. Proactive Risk Mitigation and Conflict Resolution
    Proactive risk mitigation is a cornerstone of AWP. Planners constantly assess and address potential risks to prevent conflicts during execution. By anticipating issues, AWP reduces costly project disruptions, allowing for a more predictable and controlled workflow.

Is AWP Right for Your Project?

While AWP is highly effective for specific project types, such as oil and gas, I’ve found that its principles don’t always translate well to commercial or residential construction. Traditional construction projects are often too complex and dynamic for the rigid structure of AWP. However, there are a few lessons worth taking away, particularly around work package planning, which could enhance productivity in other types of projects.

My Take on AWP

From my research and discussions with industry professionals, it’s clear that AWP offers value for large, prefabricated projects. However, the reliance on traditional project management tools like CPM, without fully integrating Lean principles, can limit its adaptability and effectiveness. For instance, field engineers and foremen often find themselves excluded from planning, which can hinder flexibility and team buy-in.

In my opinion, AWP could benefit significantly by incorporating Lean techniques like Takt, Last Planner, and Scrum methodologies. These Lean methods bring a more people-centered approach, which is vital for today’s complex construction landscape. If AWP embraced more collaborative, adaptable practices, it might find a stronger foothold in general construction beyond its current niche.

Final Thoughts

AWP has a clear role in the construction industry, especially for large-scale projects with defined work packages and prefabricated elements. However, I believe that fully implementing AWP across all construction types may not be practical or beneficial. If you’re looking into AWP, I suggest understanding its core benefits and experimenting with integrating Lean principles to maximize its effectiveness. Ultimately, a blended approach could be the key to a more adaptable, people-oriented project management strategy.

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

The Real Life Of A Construction Superintendent: All Access!

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

A Day in the Life of a Construction Superintendent: Key Practices for Success

In this blog, we’ll dive into what a day in the life of a construction superintendent really looks like, and explore some essential habits and strategies that help ensure success on the job.

Weekly Patterns and Key Meetings

A superintendent’s week typically includes several structured meetings. Here’s a look at some of the key meetings that shape the week:

  • Team Meeting: A foundational meeting to ensure alignment within the team.
  • Strategic Planning: Here, you’ll discuss high-level goals and set a clear direction.
  • Trade Partner Weekly Tactical (TP): This meeting includes look-ahead planning and weekly work planning with foremen. It’s essential for keeping everyone on track and informed for the week ahead.
  • Foreman Huddles: Daily foreman huddles ensure that each day’s plans are communicated clearly and any issues are resolved quickly.
  • Owner-Architect-Contractor (OAC) Meetings: These meetings are collaborative sessions where project owners, architects, and contractors coordinate on larger project goals and challenges.

These regular meetings provide a “crystal ball” for project planning—an approach to foresee and address obstacles proactively, creating a smoother flow of work on the site.

The Crystal Ball: Production Planning

As a superintendent, you constantly look through a “crystal ball” by using a structured production plan. This plan flows from team alignment to strategic planning, right down to daily plans for workers. Your role is to work closely with foremen and field engineers to spot and remove roadblocks before they disrupt workflow. This proactive approach—known as “making work ready”—is what keeps projects running efficiently and prevents the chaos that often comes with last-minute adjustments.

Building Team Dynamics: Lessons from the Field

Taking cues from leadership principles, such as those from Jocko Willink’s Echelon Front, effective team management for superintendents involves:

  1. Building the team.
  2. Simplifying and clarifying objectives.
  3. Detaching from emotions to make objective decisions.
  4. Decentralizing command, empowering team members to take ownership within their areas.

Following these principles helps make the production plan everyone’s plan, enabling a seamless, collaborative work environment.

Core Daily Habits for Builders

Three habits set successful superintendents apart from the rest:

  1. Spend Time in Plans: Review your drawings every day for 15-30 minutes.
  2. Stay in the Production Plan: Dedicate 15-30 minutes each day to monitoring and updating the production plan.
  3. Conduct Field Walks: Daily walks help you identify issues and prepare work for the next steps.

These habits build a rhythm that ensures all project aspects are prepared, roadblocks are anticipated, and everyone on site knows the plan.

Long-Term Success Habits

Beyond daily habits, adopting these long-term strategies will help keep projects on track:

  1. Phase Pull Planning: Look three months ahead to ensure the team is prepared and aligned for upcoming project phases.
  2. Quality Preconstruction Meetings: Three weeks before any major phase or package, hold a preconstruction meeting to clarify roles, expectations, and resources.
  3. Look-Ahead Planning: Regularly monitor six-week and one-week look-ahead to identify and address potential obstacles early.

These strategies create a structured yet flexible plan that adapts to any challenges that arise while maintaining progress.

A Superintendent’s Daily Routine

While every day is different, a typical superintendent’s routine includes a morning planning session, a worker huddle, site control checks, afternoon meetings, and prepping for the next day. This flow keeps superintendents in tune with every part of the site and ready to tackle the day’s challenges.

In the end, a superintendent’s job is all about seeing the future, removing obstacles, and empowering the team by following disciplined practices. When applied consistently, these practices enable a superintendent to not only keep a project on track but also to cultivate a productive, engaged, and successful team on-site.

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 Certificate Of Completion In Construction?

Posted on by Danny Jiménez⁩

Understanding Certificates of Completion and Occupancy in Construction

In this blog, I’m going to delve into two important concepts in construction: the Certificate of Completion and the Certificate of Occupancy. Understanding these certificates is crucial for anyone involved in a construction project, whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or developer. So, let’s get started!

What is a Certificate of Completion?

A Certificate of Completion is issued by the local government to certify that a building has been completed according to the approved plans and specifications, as well as local building codes and regulations. This certificate is essential for closing out permits, transferring ownership, and securing financing or insurance. It provides occupants with assurance that the building is safe for use.

To obtain a Certificate of Completion, a final inspection is conducted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). During this inspection, the AHJ reviews all relevant documentation and permits to ensure that everything has been completed satisfactorily. It’s important to note that a final inspection report is not the same as a Certificate of Completion; the report documents the findings of the inspection, while the certificate has legal significance.

What is a Certificate of Occupancy?

On the other hand, a Certificate of Occupancy is a document issued by the local government that certifies a building is ready for occupancy. This certificate confirms that the building complies with all life safety requirements, such as ADA standards, fire safety regulations, and emergency access provisions. The C of O indicates that all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are functional and safe for occupancy.

Like the Certificate of Completion, obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy requires a thorough inspection by the AHJ. They will ensure that all necessary documentation is in order and that the building meets all requirements before issuing the certificate. A Certificate of Occupancy is often crucial for financing and insurance, as lenders typically require it before providing a mortgage.

The Importance of Understanding Completion Dates and Required Certificates

When planning a construction project, it is vital to understand the timeline for both the Certificate of Completion and the Certificate of Occupancy. These certificates are closely linked to substantial completion, which indicates that the project is nearing its final stages. Knowing the required documents and certificates can help you avoid delays and ensure a smooth transition into occupancy.

To effectively manage your project timeline, consider the following steps:

  1. Identify Required Certificates: Determine what certificates you need to obtain before moving in or completing the project.
  2. Work Backwards: Create a timeline that outlines when to start the necessary processes to secure these certificates.
  3. Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements set by your local jurisdiction, as these can vary significantly.
  4. Communication is Key: Ensure all parties involved in the project understand their responsibilities related to these certificates.

Common Challenges in Obtaining Certificates

There are two primary challenges that often arise during this process:

  1. Resistance to Preconstruction Services: Some owners may hesitate to invest in preconstruction services, which can lead to issues later in the project. It’s important to recognize the value of planning and coordination in achieving successful outcomes.
  2. Inconsistent Application of Terms: Different owners and jurisdictions may use the terms “Certificate of Completion” and “Certificate of Occupancy” interchangeably or in varying contexts. Be sure to clarify these definitions to avoid misunderstandings.

Conclusion

In summary, both the Certificate of Completion and the Certificate of Occupancy are critical components of the construction process. They ensure that a building is finished and safe for occupancy, ultimately protecting the interests of owners, occupants, and developers.

By understanding these certificates and their requirements, you can better navigate the complexities of construction projects and avoid costly delays.

I hope you found this blog informative and helpful in your construction endeavors. Until next time, happy building!

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