Keeping our projects on schedule can be challenging. Set yourself up for success with proper planning.

Q: How do I get my suppliers and subcontractors to meet my project schedules?

1. Scheduling projects is a huge challenge
   1. You need to set up the schedule properly – if it’s not accurate it’s useless
   2. Updating and managing – keep the project updated with current progress
   3. Getting the work done – you have to monitor activities to make sure they stay on track
2. It starts with a good schedule
   1. Get your full team participation – you need buy-in
   2. Make it effective and understandable
   3. Communicate it to the field
3. Set the tone
   1. Be clear to everyone that schedule is important to you
   2. When a new sub comes on board monitor them closely on their first task – they’ll get the picture
   3. Once you let them know the importance of meeting commitments they will be more likely to continue

Key Questions:

1. Do you struggle to meet your schedules?

2. Are they realistic?

3. Do you get full buy-in upfront?

4. Do you monitor your schedule?

5. How can you improve your process?

Take-Action Items:

1. Have a good scheduling process

2. Communicate your schedule clearly and frequently

3. Use a tool like the 3-week look-ahead for coordination