Michael DeSafey | Executive Recruiter and HR Professional
Efficiency and Productivity on a Construction Job Site
Keeping a jobsite running efficiently and cost-effectively is not always an easy task. One common obstacle is the current shortage of skilled labor in the construction industry, along with an increase in the cost of construction materials. It can be challenging for construction contractors and project managers to complete jobs on time and on budget and to keep customers satisfied. To achieve this, it is essential to equip yourself with the best tools to complete construction projects in the most cost-efficient and productive way possible. Here are a few factors to consider to increase efficiency and productivity on construction sites
- Time management
One way to increase efficiency on construction jobsites is effective time management. Scheduling workers to make sure someone is available to work at any given time to get a project completed in a timely manner can be a challenge. And once the workers are there, you will also need supervisors on site who can lead a team and motivate everyone to work productively.
- Vetting Subcontractors
Construction professionals must be very cautious when hiring subcontractors. Project managers can be held legally liable for any faulty workmanship on a job. All subcontractors hired for a project should be thoroughly vetted, including verifying all references, inspecting documentation such as licenses, employee records, or insurance coverage. Always review the subcontractor’s business model and financial solvency.
- Maintaining Insurance Requirements
Without the proper insurance, construction contractors and project managers are legally responsible if things go wrong on a jobsite. Workers can be injured, jobs can be completed that are not up to quality standards, environmental contamination can occur while completing a project, among other possibilities. All these issues can cause liability issues for contractors. A periodic review of insurance coverage is necessary to ensure projects run efficiently and smoothly and that all parties involved are properly protected.
- Keep Lines of Communication Open
Effective communication is important in letting employees know the expectations of their manager regarding the time scope of completing a project, the materials needed, and in coordinating the efforts of all team members. Without keeping the lines of communication open, a project can quickly get out of control. Everyone must know and understand the tasks needed to complete a job on time and with quality workmanship. Without effective communication, there can be delays that prove costly in time and money.
- Employee motivation
Construction employees expect to be valued and treated fairly, which includes providing a safe working environment, listening to any employee concerns that may arise, and working to find a solution to the problem. When employees feel valued, they will be motivated to perform to the best of their ability. The more productive the employees are, the faster the job can be completed, which will help get the project completed on time and on budget.
Construction contractors have a lot to think about in day-to-day operations, including trying to save on costs. Understanding industry-specific risks and learning how to mitigate them are key to achieve efficiency and productivity on construction jobsites.
Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com . To learn more about Michael or to follow his blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com