Under similar conditions the variation in how fast two crafts people actually “turn wrenches” is not that big. For a specialty contractor nearly every process in the company must be focused around these three areas:
- Maximize Time-on-Tools (ToT): Ensure that crafts people spend most of their day working with their tools actually installing things. Different studies place the industry average between 50-65%. Get materials close to the work areas. Ensure tools are in good working order. Make layout details clear. Ensure the work area is ready through great trade coordination.
- Minimum Required Installation: Don’t take critical shortcuts but don’t over-build the project. In the field we would call it “Gold Plating.” Effective installation details, craft training and good field supervision practices will ensure that you get the right level of quality.
- Minimize Rework: The only greater waste than installing more than what is required is doing it twice.
General Contractors and Project Owners can do a lot to set the conditions for success with their labor-intensive subcontractors.
