Multiple Jobs

Originally Posted by d-rez

I run several jobs at once, with average jobs is in the $100k-150k range. Good subs are the key. I used to be that guy who looked at pricing first and spent much more time managing subs (I called myself a glorified babysitter). Now I pay high dollar for good subs and save time in managing (because I don't have to with these guys). I also used to do some field work as well, but that cuts into the office/management time. Find good subs (ask for references from GCs and call lisencing boards to check for complaints). As far as sub agreements go, a proffesional company will understand the value and reason for a well written contract. I have scarred off subs when I mention the word contract, and although dissapointed at first, realize it is for the best that we do not work together.

Originally Posted by AtlanticWBConst

It is not an easy thing to balance multiple projects.

Originally Posted by AtlanticWBConst

It is not an easy thing to balance multiple projects.

These are some of the factors that help us:

1.) I believe in organization. Good organization can help to eliminate potential problems from even happening, in the first place. I keep separate folders, for separate jobs. Everything is in that folder (in a ballistic computer type bag for the road), not spread out, all over the place.
2.) Fore-thought, and fore-planning are essential to any construction project. Even more so, if running multiple jobs. Regularly, review all facets of each current job, beginning to end. Make the time to do it. This is what separates the "wannabees", from the "ares".
3.) Find the right subs, and the right workers. The right sub contractors are the ones that you do not have to babysit. They are the ones that communicate. They are the ones, that have the ability to make good onsite-decisions and "calls".
The same can be said for workers.
No job can run on automatic-pilot. There are times that you should be there, there are times that you should not have to be there. Train your help to work the way you need them to work, in order to be 99% self-sufficient, equip them to be as well.
Train your subs (without letting them realize it) to the way you need them to work, when on your jobs.
4.) Personal scheduling: Work out a proper schedule to take care of all aspects of your business. Example: I do all my phone calls, with a hands free set on the road. It's down time = use it to your advantage.
5.) Mobile office: You need a "form" of one, if you are going to run, more than one job...period.
6.) C-O-M-M-U-N-I-C-A-T-I-O-N.
7.) All workers and subs are required to check in every morning, and every day's end....period.
8.) Note pads = always have one and a pen.
9.) Get up a little earlier in the morning. If you are used to the 8-5, it's time to change your schedule. Get up earlier, and you'd be surprised at how much more you can get done and how much more organized you will be.
10.) Develop a good list of suppliers and reps. If you have specific sales people, or reps, that you can do business with, on a regular basis, they can do alot of the extra work, and phone calls for you. They can even run materials and supplies out to your jobsites for you.
11.) Always be "networking". You will be able to find resources that can help you.
12.) Have a good office, or home office. Sometimes, you just need a nice big table to spread out the paperwork, until you can catch up to it.
13.) Keep track of your project expenses.
14.) It's a fact, more jobs = more driving. Be prepared for more gas use, and more wear on your vehicle.
15.) If you have a business partner, think about what his/her strong points are, think about what your strong points are. Delegate business matters accordingly. You will get more done.
16.) Always develop a system for everything. It will create efficiency.
17.) MANAGEMENT SKILLS: Good communication, written lists, forms, follow ups, inspecting, co-ordination, fore-thought, planning, all of the above....
To successfully run multiple projects, your are a manager first, and a carpenter, GC, or whatever.... second.

Originally Posted by CNC

how man people are you talking to EACH MORNING?

Originally Posted by Tao_Rider

This is what I posted:

If you want to run multiple crews, your company’s culture has to be one that builds leaders. Piece work is a great way to do it. We run three teams and here is how we do it.

Estimate: We break labor and material down for each phase of a project. Phases are, demolition, foundation, framing, roofing, electrical, plumbing……etc…punch out list.

Installation, each Team has a team leader. You are filling that roll now, and should be training a leader at all times. The Team leader understands the goal for today, which phase’s budget is affected, and, most importantly, how much bonus he’ll make if he brings that days work under budget.

Reporting: Every monetary expenditure is logged daily so we know exactly where we are with the budget at all times. On Friday, we have a real time review of the week’s performance, and the game plan for the next week.

The success is in the processes and your ability to be disciplined enough to enforce them. Best place to start is with very detailed job descriptions for each person involved, including you.

For clarification, piece work is often confused with sub-contracting. With piece work, they are still your employees, the difference is that you are guaranteeing them an hourly wage that must be above minimum wage, but, you are giving them the opportunity to make more money for speedy performance. #1 culture rule * don’t sacrifice quality for speed.

The success in this type of expansion relies on your ability to manage, coach and counsel. Check your skill level before proceeding because you are trying to break through one of the proverbial glass ceilings, transforming from a Tradesman to a Businessman. Just because you are successful at one, doesn’t make it a given you will be successful as the other. Find a local Mentor who is a good business person.