The Real Cost of Ignoring Productivity

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Challenge

Imagine delivering a complex construction project without tracking productivity. You're left guessing progress, uncertain of efficiency, and facing unexpected delays. Without reliable data, you can't accurately forecast completion dates or manage risks effectively, putting project outcomes in jeopardy. Micah Piippo and Greg Lawton tackle this critical issue by discussing the true cost of ignoring productivity and practical strategies to address it.

Key Takeaways

• Productivity Extends Beyond Fieldwork: It's essential to track productivity across all project phases, including design, procurement, and commissioning, to manage risk and timelines effectively.

• Historical Data is Powerful: Using historical productivity data from past projects helps accurately forecast timelines, manage risks, and identify acceleration opportunities.

• Beware of Oversimplified Schedules: If your schedule activities consistently have durations in multiples of five days, it's a red flag indicating a lack of genuine productivity tracking.

• Productivity Drives Project Predictability: Accurate productivity tracking creates transparency between owners and contractors, significantly reducing the risk of project disputes.

• Productivity Hierarchy Matters: Productivity isn't uniform; it varies by task complexity, coordination needs, and disruption factors, each of which must be carefully managed for successful project outcomes.

Tactical Takeaway

Start small but specific. Select one critical construction task such as concrete pouring or rebar installation and begin tracking its actual daily productivity. Use these insights immediately to adjust your schedule forecasting and resource planning, providing a concrete foundation for better project decisions.

Watch on Youtube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.