EP 78 | Mastering Construction Schedules – Expert Insights for Success with David Herzog

In this episode:

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson sits down with David Herzog of Herzog Homes to discuss the critical role of scheduling in construction projects. This episode explores the challenges and complexities of managing timelines, setting realistic expectations, and maintaining open communication with homeowners to ensure a smooth and successful building experience. 

TOPICS COVERED:

• The Importance of Scheduling: Understand why scheduling is a crucial aspect of construction projects, impacting not only project timelines but also customer satisfaction, budget adherence, and overall project success.
• The Evolution of Scheduling: Reflect on the evolution of scheduling tools and techniques, from manual methods like graph paper and composition notebooks to modern digital solutions and project management software.
• Setting Expectations: Emphasize the importance of setting realistic expectations with homeowners regarding project timelines, acknowledging potential delays due to factors beyond the builder’s control, such as weather, material availability, and permitting processes.
• Proactive Communication: Discuss the value of proactive communication in managing customer expectations and addressing potential schedule disruptions, offering transparent updates and alternative solutions to maintain trust and minimize frustration.
• The Impact of External Factors: Explore the various external factors that can impact construction schedules, including weather events, material shortages, and permitting delays, and how builders can mitigate these risks through careful planning and proactive communication.
• The Role of the Customer: Acknowledge the customer’s role in the scheduling process, emphasizing the importance of timely decision-making, clear communication, and flexibility to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Change Order Management: Discuss the impact of change orders on project schedules, and the importance of accurately estimating the time required for changes and communicating those impacts to the homeowner.
• Maintaining Quality: Emphasize the importance of maintaining quality standards even when faced with schedule pressures, and the need for careful planning and resource allocation to avoid compromising on craftsmanship.
• The Value of Experience: Highlight the role of experience in developing effective scheduling practices, understanding potential pitfalls, and navigating unexpected challenges.
• Technology for Scheduling: Discuss the benefits of using technology, such as project management software, to create detailed schedules, track progress, and communicate updates to homeowners and subcontractors.
• The Importance of a Collaborative Team: Underscore the value of a collaborative team approach, involving the architect, engineer, interior designer, and other key stakeholders in the scheduling process to ensure alignment and avoid potential conflicts.
• The Power of Perspective: Encourage builders to adopt a holistic perspective on scheduling, considering the project as a symphony of interconnected tasks and resources, and orchestrating those elements to achieve a harmonious and successful outcome.

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GET IN TOUCH: 

Guest: David Herzog

Business Title: Owner & CEO

Company: Herzog Homes

Website: https://www.herzoghomes.com/

Full Transcript