[GCTony]

Unlike Jaws, we provide a schedule for all projects (commercial) regardless of size. It becomes part of the contract documents. We use Microsoft Project. Basically you put down on paper what you already have in your head so everyone knows what's go on, who's responsible for what and when. At the end of the day it's a CYA tool. It's easier for the Plumber to ask for an extra few days when he stared the job late because the framer finished late because of bad weather.

 

[GCTony]

Jaws, I hope you didn't take my comment the wrong way. Just saying that our ways are not the same as the way Jaws does things. Detailed schedules are important part on how we do business. It makes our lives a lot easier. When a sub signs the contract he knows well in advance when he needs to start and when he needs to finish. Same with the owner, if he has tasks that effect our work, he knows well in advance. Like I said earlier; it's a CYA thing for us. "No Excuses, no surprises" mentality.

 

[GCTony]

OK, I wasn't thinking of working with a home owner. I guess builders have a little freedom where on the commercial side our "critical path" dates are fixed and generally not very flexible. 90% of our commercial clients are experienced. If we are behind according to our schedule, the first thing the CM wants to know is how you are going to make up that time, not how does it change the completion date. We push lots of paper and updating the schedule is just another weekly thing that we do.

I could imagine a HO calling asking why the plumber isn't there when the schedule said he should be. That would drive me nuts as well.