Keeping crews busy and moving during the different phases of a construction project takes some careful juggling, especially when you’ve got multiple jobs running. Here’s a look at strategies for managing crew logistics, handling equipment, and making sure your workers stay engaged (and not lured away by the competition).
Phases and Flexibility: Shifting Crews to Stay Productive
In big projects, there’s often a bit more flexibility to move crews around as different phases get completed. For instance, if one crew is working on a deep sanitary sewer installation, another could start on stormwater or water lines in a different section. Since sewer lines are usually the deepest, they go in first, and that opens up opportunities to start shallower utilities right after.
When it comes to grading, though, things can get trickier. Grading projects usually require a lot of equipment, and moving that machinery around is expensive and time-consuming. Instead of relocating the whole setup, it might be smarter to divide the crew, sending a few members to other jobs needing an extra hand while keeping the equipment stationary.
Filling In with Small Projects
For times when a main project hits a delay—like weather setbacks or waiting on materials—having smaller, quick-turnaround jobs in your back pocket can keep a crew productive. Maybe there’s a short job nearby that needs a couple of days’ work, or perhaps some maintenance projects around town. Having these on standby is helpful for keeping everyone engaged and moving.
Building Crew Skills and Morale
When you do split a crew, it’s a great chance to give some of your top operators a bit more responsibility. If you’ve got someone on the verge of stepping up as a foreman, give them a couple of guys and let them take on a smaller project. This experience is good for building leadership skills and keeps people challenged. Plus, everyone likes to see a pathway for advancement.
Keep Crews Busy and Happy to Avoid Turnover
In today’s market, good construction hands are hard to come by, and it’s no secret that other companies are always looking to poach experienced workers. If your guys feel like they’re just waiting around, it’s easier for them to start looking elsewhere. Keeping a steady flow of work, paying fair wages, and offering job security go a long way in retaining your crew.
Taking Advantage of Downtime
For brief downtimes, there’s always work to be done around the shop. Cleanups, organizing scrap metal, grading lay-down areas, or doing some other general maintenance can fill the gap. Even though it’s not fieldwork, it keeps your people busy, so they feel valued and secure in their roles.
Wrapping It Up
Managing crews effectively means having flexibility, filling downtime smartly, and ensuring workers know they’re valuable. A little planning and creative thinking can go a long way in keeping everyone moving, developing new skills, and feeling good about staying on the team.