Remodelers often say that they "hire to retire" and "promote from within." Employees already in the fold know the company's systems, and require less training in the new position than someone from outside would. That means a smoother transition when a position does open up, saving time, money, and aggravation. More
Even after hours, anything that happens on the jobsite is the responsibility of the remodeler. From a burst pipe to a door left unlocked, a long list of catastrophes can destroy an otherwise good relationship with a homeowner. More
The next time the sales team hands off a job to production, examine the job package, and if it doesn't clearly explain the following, get some clarification. More
Undisciplined, uninterested, lazy: We've heard these terms and worse to express remodelers' frustration with young workers. Attitudes toward work may be changing, but the rapid aging of the construction workforce suggests that remodelers might need to change as well. More
Job-cost reports are invaluable tools for keeping projects on schedule and on budget, and for improving remodeling processes. If a report shows that the project is starting to lose money, try these constructive responses. More
Who wants to sit in a room and hear someone drone on while their own pressing work is put on hold? No one. Yet week in and week out, this is what happens in many production meetings. Follow these simple rules for more effective production meetings. Not only will your company run more smoothly, your employees may even enjoy themselves. More
Thought for the day: The client is paying you and your crew to produce a product and to manage your job well. To work efficiently and intelligently, I suggest a daily planning period: a half-hour at the same time each day in which the lead carpenter or project manager sets up activities, people, and materials for the next two weeks. More
Production goes from sales through the last check or warranty item. More
From financial files to project warranties, a look at procedures that facilitate best remodeling practices. More
