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Lean Built

Breaking Ground: The Overlooked Challenge in Construction Today

In the world of construction, where heavy machinery and towering structures dominate the landscape, there exists a significant but often underestimated challenge—one that doesn’t involve concrete, steel, or blueprints. The biggest problem facing the construction industry today isn’t a lack of innovation or advanced technology; instead, it’s the neglect of the very individuals who build our cities and shape our skylines.

The Unseen Obstacle:

In construction today, what is the biggest problem, roadblock or constraint?

Indeed! Workers, crew leaders, and other individuals in leadership roles are neglecting self-care, making it challenging for them to attend to their well-being, their families, their personal lives, and their careers due to the overwhelming demands of their jobs.

The Win-Win Solution:

Amidst the clamor of construction sites, it’s crucial to recognize that a win-win scenario is not just desirable but entirely possible. A victory for the individual and a triumph for the employer can coexist harmoniously.The pivotal element lies in individuals’ ability to grasp various aspects of their lives.:

  •  Clarity for a compelling future
  •  Growth mindset
  •  Identity
  •  Physical body
  •  Mental health
  •  Spiritual life
  •  Relationships
  •  Career planning
  •  Finances

The Call to Action:

To address this challenge head-on, we’re thrilled to introduce our latest tool—the Personal Organization Planner. Tailored specifically for those in the construction industry, this planner is designed to bring about a win-win situation in your personal and professional life.

How the Personal Organization Planner Can Help:

  • Generate clarity
  • Define your leader standard work
  • Arrange your month
  • Organize your week
  • Plan your days with morning and afternoon routines
  • Monitor your progress
  • Enhance your mood and state
  • Maintain a to-do list

In the fast-paced world of construction, let’s not forget that the most robust structures are built on a foundation of well-being, both personal and professional. Here’s to breaking ground not just on construction sites but in our lives as well. Cheers to a win-win 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!

Empowering Construction Professionals: The Crucial Role of Takt in Lean Construction

Are you ready to revolutionize your approach to construction? Look no further than Takt, the linchpin of lean construction methodologies. At the heart of this transformative system, Takt serves as the catalyst for implementing and supporting essential strategies such as 5S, One Process Flow, Visual Environments, the Last Planner® System, and Continuous Improvement. It’s not just a construction method; it’s a mindset shift that’s poised to elevate your projects to new heights.

But that’s not all—this isn’t your average training course. The commitment to excellence is evident in our continuous improvement philosophy. With each delivery of the course, we fine-tune and upgrade, ensuring you receive the most cutting-edge insights and tools. You’re not just gaining knowledge, you’re acquiring a toolkit


 

 designed to be immediately applicable to your projects in every module.


 “Your mind is the biggest asset to you and the company you work for.” This isn’t just a platitude; it’s a guiding principle. By framing your mind with knowledge, embracing best practices, and adopting lean thinking, you’re not only enhancing your project outcomes but also bringing stability to your operations. The benefits extend beyond the immediate project—it’s a career advancement move. The time for this transformative shift is now.

However, a note of concern: neglecting time for self-improvement could result in experiencing the same crash landings and pain that the construction industry dishes out daily.  This isn’t just about professional growth; it’s about personal well-being in a demanding field. Take the time for yourself, invest in your knowledge, and witness the positive ripple effect on your projects and your life.

In conclusion, Takt in lean construction is not just a tool; it’s a philosophy that can reshape your professional trajectory. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this transformative journey. Your projects, your operations, and your career will thank you. It’s time to soar above the industry standards—join us and let’s build a better future together.

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!

Unveiling the Elevate Way: A Generous Gift of Knowledge

Have you ever seen anything like this? Just giving away tools like this? Well, just remember you are part of the Elevate family, and we will share everything we can with you. So here is a complete guide to our meeting system.

In the dynamic realm of project management, collaboration and knowledge-sharing are the cornerstones of success. At Elevate, we believe in not just sharing tools but empowering our community with a wealth of resources. As a valued member of the Elevate family, we are thrilled to present a comprehensive guide to our

 

 meeting system—a gift from us to you.

 

As I reflect my journey in the industry, a few key convictions have emerged:

  • Good Meetings Save Time

Meetings, often considered the price we pay to be on the same page, are invaluable investments that can significantly save time in the long run.

  • Visual Tools Drive Discussion

Effective discussions require something tangible to look at and discuss. Visual aids play a pivotal role in fostering engagement and understanding.

  • Collaborative Issue Resolution

To have a proper discussion, it’s essential to identify, discuss, and solve issues collaboratively as a team.

  • Flow Beyond the Field

Project flow extends beyond the physical realm. Information should seamlessly flow from the inception of a plan to each worker on-site, ensuring a continuous and efficient workflow.

  • The Power of Rhythm

Humans thrive on rhythm, and establishing a meeting rhythm contributes to better teamwork and productivity.

  • Teams Meet as Teams

For teams to truly function as cohesive units, regular meetings are not just beneficial; they are essential.

So, here’s a glimpse into the Elevate meeting system—a proven approach that has yielded success over many years.

As part of our commitment to your success, we are in the process of designing visual boards tailored for your conference room or huddle area. Additionally, stay tuned for our upcoming book, where we delve into the art of creating flow in the field.

At Elevate, we’re not just building structures; we’re building a community of empowered and informed professionals. Here’s to your continued 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!

Revolutionizing Project Management: The Super/PM Boot Camp Overhaul

Our Super/PM Boot Camp just got a major upgrade, and we couldn’t be more excited to share the news! Based on invaluable feedback, we’ve revamped the entire experience to make it even more engaging, practical, and, dare we say, downright fun!

Here’s the fantastic transformations we’ve made:

Extended Duration: Going from a shorter format to a dynamic 4-day experience is fantastic! It allows for a more comprehensive exploration of topics.

Time-Friendly Approach: Shorter daily hours are a thoughtful adjustment, ensuring participants stay engaged and focused throughout the sessions.

Hands-On Learning: Building a complete example from start to finish is a brilliant way to make the learning experience more tangible and applicable.

Live Demonstrations: The live demonstrations, covering everything from project planning to conflict resolution, add a practical dimension to the theoretical knowledge.

Contextual Learning: Grounding the training in a real-world example enhances the relevance and practicality of the skills being taught.

Project management is often seen as a serious business, but injecting a sense of fun and excitement is a game-changer in itself.

And the question about playing with construction toys and styrofoam is intriguing. It’s not every day you get to turn childhood play into professional development! The idea of making these crucial meetings muscle memory is innovative and practical.

So, construction enthusiasts and project management aficionados alike, this is your chance to immerse yourself in a world where learning meets excitement. Join us in making project management an adventure worth having!

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 success formula: A comprehensive guide

Success is not a destination, but a journey. It is not a singular achievement, but a series of small victories. Success, in essence, is a mindset, a personal organization, and a journey towards clarity. It is all about setting goals, following a morning routine, and staying focused despite the chaos. In this blog post, we will explore the success formula that you can adapt into your lifestyle.

The Success Formula
Our success formula revolves around clarity, mindset, personal organization, and setting milestones. It’s about knowing your BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) and working towards it. This formula involves you, your family, your work, and how you manage your time and tasks. It is about avoiding the shame of your past and the stress about the future. It’s about living in the present and working towards the future.

Morning Routine
Every successful day begins with a morning routine. Wake up, maintain your hygiene, have breakfast, engage in some physical exercises, have your coffee, spend some time with your family and pets, pray, and meditate. This routine helps you to start your day with a clear mind, and helps you stay organized throughout the day.

Building Your Day
After your morning routine, the next step is to build your day. This involves creating a to-do list, box breathing, and planning your day. Creating a to-do list helps you to stay organized and keep track of your tasks. Box breathing helps to relieve stress, and planning your day helps you to manage your time effectively.

Afternoon Routine
Just as the morning routine kickstarts your day, the afternoon routine helps to wrap it up effectively. This involves closing out assignments, planning the next day, getting all small tasks done, listening to your favorite song, box breathing, getting into state, and doing something to serve others.

Tracking Progress
Keeping track of your progress is crucial in the journey to success. This involves keeping a daily tracker and recording the total hours spent on each task. This helps to measure your productivity and shows areas that need improvement.

The Challenge
The success formula is not a one-time thing, but a continuous process. It is a challenge that requires consistency and dedication. It involves following the pattern for 60 days, serving your partner like never before, going on a date night every week, keeping a to-do list, following the Leader Standard Work (LSW), time blocking your days, avoiding emails, using buffers, and working in One Piece Flow (OPF).

In conclusion, success is attainable. It is not about perfection, but progress. It is about setting goals, staying organized, managing your time effectively, and maintaining a positive mindset. With the right formula, you can achieve success in your personal life, career, and relationships.

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!

Who Are You?

Do you know who you are? Do you know your strengths, weaknesses, and innate abilities? If not, what are you waiting for? To build trust you must know yourself, you must know your team. It is also important to get the right people into the right positions. Take the attached assessment and send me your results. I will make a player card for you.

Check out my player card as an example. Does it help you to know me better? If so, what could it do for you?

 
 
 

The knowledge of your strengths can do more to springboard you toward more success than anything else I know. Don’t focus too much on your weaknesses. Neutralize them, but spend most of your time on your strengths. Those are what you will use to change the world.

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 #1 Best Way to Create a Lean Culture in Construction

If you haven’t heard of Paul Akers, you are in for a treat! Think of heaven. What would it be like? Will we know all things, have all things, and exist with everything given to us? Or, will we be able to progress, and learn, and improve, and create remarkable environments of our own? Does this sound silly? I hope not-because I am dead serious. If you study Paul’s books, watch his videos, and start your 2 Second Lean journey, you will be introduced to a little bit of heaven on earth. All I can say about watching his progress is, “Inspired!” Check out the 2 Second Lean Play App. It is totally free. here is what you will get:

  • 2 Second Lean – Build a lean culture

  • Lean Health – Find the simplest way to care for your health

  • Lean Life – Truly know who you are

  • Lean Travel – Travel with the most efficiency

  • Banish Sloppiness – Learn quality from Japanese culture

  • Today & Tomorrow – Read a classic that could change the minds of current lean thinkers

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!

Do you have a weekly meeting system?

Effective meetings can truly be a game changer in any project or organization. They serve as vital forums for communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. However, it’s equally important to consider how well your project’s communication system extends to every worker in their specific work environment.

Having an efficient and scalable communication system tailored to the needs of each worker in their unique work setting is essential. It ensures that crucial information is not only disseminated but also comprehended and acted upon effectively. This approach empowers workers with the knowledge and guidance they need to carry out their tasks efficiently and safely.

If you don’t currently have such a system in place, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on why. Perhaps it’s a matter of resources, technology, or processes. Identifying the barriers to effective communication and addressing them can lead to improved productivity, reduced errors, and a safer work environment. Ultimately, it’s an investment in the success of your project and the well-being of your team. So, evaluating your communication strategies and making necessary improvements can yield significant benefits for your project’s overall success.

Let’s organize one for you:

 
 
 

So many people in construction do not like meetings. But meetings can make or break the effectiveness of the project if not done right. Ultimately, we are professional communicators. It is our job to communicate the project vision and direction all the way to the workers. Is your system setup to scale effective communication? Are your meetings effective enough to reduce your load and increase your capacity? Are they interesting and covering the right topics? Check out the template weekly meeting plan below and reach out if you need any help.

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!

Design your trailer first

When embarking on the planning process for your workspace, it’s crucial to prioritize the design of your office space from the very beginning. This initial focus on office design sets the foundation for a productive, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing environment that can greatly impact your team’s efficiency and overall well-being. From layout and furniture choices to lighting and decor, thoughtful design choices can create a workspace that inspires creativity, fosters collaboration, and ultimately contributes to the success of your organization. So, here are some things to consider:

  1. Does the workspace foster engagement?

  2. Does the space create visual management where the team can solve problems together?

  3. Are signs intentionally placed to support scheduling, safety, and quality systems?

  4. Does your trailer have the following items?

  • Remarkable conference rooms

  • A reception area

  • A permitting wall

  • A family wall showing pictures of the team and family

  • A right to know area

  • A virtual plan table and dashboard

  • Space for your trade partners to co-locate

  • A planning area for the last planner system

  • A dedicated orientation area

  • Lunchrooms for the workers

  • Bathrooms built for the workers

 

Does the trailer look, smell, and sound the way you want to create the culture you want?

Here is what you can do:

  1. Design your trailers first.

  2. Ask yourself how you want people to feel.

  3. Ask yourself what you want people to know.

  4. Ask yourself what interactions and engagement you want to take place naturally.

Ultimately, we all need four things to be successful:

  1. A place to work

  2. Tools & equipment

  3. Training

  4. The time to do our work

The companies and leaders that invest in their office spaces, will be better suited to create dynamic cultures, creative and engaging spaces, and teams that want to work at 100% capacity.

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!

Visual Management is Key

It’s a well-known fact that getting your plan out of your head and onto tangible mediums like paper, signs, or interactive boards is a pivotal step in executing any successful endeavor. This process not only facilitates clear communication but also serves as a visual roadmap, ensuring that everyone involved is on the same page and fully comprehends the path forward.

To further empower you on your lean journey, we’ve taken the initiative to create a pre-formatted catalog of interactive signs. These signs are meticulously designed to align with lean principles, offering practical guidance and visual aids that can significantly enhance your operational efficiency. They serve as valuable tools to reinforce lean thinking within your organization.

Moreover, we understand that every lean journey is unique, with specific needs and challenges. That’s why we extend an open invitation for you to reach out to us with any additional requirements or specific sign formats you may need. Our dedicated team is ready and eager to collaborate with you, ensuring that your unique goals and objectives are met. Together, we can incorporate any necessary additions to further support your lean journey effectively.

In essence, our mission is to equip you with the resources and support necessary to excel in your lean endeavors. We recognize that the path to lean excellence is an ongoing journey, and we are here to provide the tools and assistance you need to navigate it successfully. Your success is our success, and we’re committed to being your trusted partner on this journey toward operational excellence.

 
 

Download this catalogue for signage ideas and a catalogue you can use to order through fast signs.

 

 

Please reach out to Lorenia for orders:

Lorenia Martinez

FASTSIGNS® 30th Street & Thomas | Account Manager | lorenia.martinez@fastsigns.com

2924 N. 30th Street,  Phoenix, AZ 85016

Phone: 602-955-8508 | FAX: 602-955-8501

Mobile: 480-459-7446

https://www.fastsigns.com/60-east-phoenix-az

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!