The mighty checklist tool
From administrative procedures to job site safety protocols, from purchase orders to change orders, from daily tasks to annual tasks, there is a mighty tool that organized construction contractors wield with dexterity. And it is fueled by the simple checkmark.
It is about the "do" and the "did" of getting things done. It is the mighty checklist tool.
It is NOT a to-do list
Let me explain.
A to-do list tells you WHAT things to do.
A checklist tells you HOW things are done.
The to-do list is short-lived, and the checklist is enduring. The checklist can and should be built to last.
Without a checklist
Whether a simple task, a designated process, or an individual project is an employee's (or your) responsibility, the intended outcome is to produce a consistent quality result. There are primarily two reasons that might not happen:
1. Some of the necessary steps were not taken.
2. Some of the essential steps were done incorrectly.
Using checklists helps to negate either or both problems.
Checklists are a part of workflow management
One way to look at checklists is to see them as the supporting actors for the stars of the show. The stars of the show are the documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs.) The task of checklists is to make the stars shine.
Think of it this way. Checklists don't replace the usefulness of SOPs. The SOP goes into detail concerning how to do something, and the checklist is what ensures it gets done.
While SOPs are lengthy and detailed, checklists are brief, concise, and contain relevant keywords. As it turns out, SOPs and checklists are complementary to one another.
Focus on the checklist tool
The five significant benefits of a well-crafted checklist:
1. Provides direction – users know what needs to be done
2. Saves time – users don't need to waste time figuring out what to do next
3. Avoids skipping any critical steps
4. Allows you to delegate tasks confidently, efficiently, and effectively
5. Gives assurance both to the company and to the user
A checklist is a crucial tool in error management. It allows you and your employees to work through processes and tasks in an efficient, logical, and error-resistant manner.
Checklist rules
· Write them in short and concise ways
· Remember to make use of keywords
· Use action words (verbs) at the beginning of each step (this list was made using this rule)
· Categorize them into sections based on intent
· Organize them by category, task, or responsible person
· Use titles rather than names (include the chain of command information when needed)
· Provide links from the checklist to sections of the appropriate SOP or the referenced app
· Include space for notes intended for other users
· Equip users with notification capabilities (such as when a checklist is complete or when input is needed before the checklist can be completed)
· Be sure everyone on the team knows where to find them
· Build in the expectation of continuous improvement
With the right checklist, linked to the appropriate SOP or app, if someone were to be removed suddenly from the task at hand, anyone else could step in and proceed from that point on.
The Profit Constructor checklist system
Here, at The Profit Constructors, we use the Aero Workflow app to write, store, and use both our SOPs and our checklists. We also work together with our clients to aid them in creating and using the SOPs and checklists appropriate for their construction company needs.
The Profit Constructors provide Construction Accounting and Operational Accountability for small to medium commercial construction subcontractors.
Our services allow you to organize your operations so you can
· Remain informed
· Avoid hassles
· Reduce risks
And we desire to familiarize you with business concepts, which will make it easier for you to be a better commercial construction subcontractor through our blog posts.
So you can Run With the Big Dogs! Call us 866-629-7735
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