Keys to Project Success

Strategies for Effective Project Planning

Saving time and money and avoiding unnecessary headaches are common goals in the world of framing and construction. How can we achieve these goals and have successful projects? Planning and preparation can make all the difference. The Framer Summit education session, Unlocking Project Success, provided valuable insights into the essential steps for achieving these goals. Moderated by Ryan Hikel, the session featured panelists Chris Breedlove and Gil Capelini, whose combined knowledge and experience emphasized the importance of preparation, effective communication, and continuous improvement throughout the project lifecycle. 

A key factor to unlocking project success is doing your homework before bidding on a project. Pre-bid preparation involves site visits, client education, engaging with the general contractors (GCs), and other logistical aspects like addressing scope sheets and safety. The panelists stressed that “doing your homework” is not just about gathering technical details, but also understanding what the client truly wants and advocating for solutions that align with their long-term needs.  

Building strong relationships with clients is essential. Instead of merely fulfilling a client’s initial request, take the time to educate them about different solutions. This can lead to more informed decisions, higher satisfaction, and repeat business. Clients may not fully understand the intricacies of the design or project, so it’s important to explain why one option is better than another. Selling a product mainly for convenience doesn’t serve anyone if the client ends up unhappy. By offering thoughtful guidance, you enhance the project’s outcome, foster client satisfaction, and strengthen long-term relationships. 

Beyond this, refining your processes is also crucial for success. Developing checklists and templates to standardize workflows improves communication and minimizes errors. This approach is especially important in large projects that span several months/years. Additionally, creating a site logistics plan to review with clients is a simple way to ensure that everyone is on the same page and understands the full scope of the project and process, while minimizing delays and unforeseen complications. This plan can include details on phasing, sequencing, safety, equipment, material staging and laydown areas, window installation, deliveries, and site cleaning. 

Furthermore, framers should prioritize integrating a feedback loop into project planning as a means to drive continuous improvement. Having post-project reviews allows teams to learn from past projects and refine their strategies for future success. The panelists highlighted the importance of reviewing and refining construction schedules, as well, to stay on track and within budget, ensuring that projects meet their intended outcomes. 

For successful execution, adopting a “punch out once” mentality is key to delivering projects right the first time. Well-executed projects not only enable timely completion but also strengthen the company’s reputation. By focusing on quality and avoiding costly rework, framing crews can finish projects more efficiently and with fewer complications. Additionally, utilizing dimensioning protocols, vendor bid checklists, and framing coordination lists can help streamline the process.  

These strategies highlight how preparation, clear communication, and adaptability are essential for achieving project success. A comprehensive approach that is grounded in thorough research, careful planning, client education, and continuous feedback, paves the way for unlocking project success.