Last month I shared some easy strategies for building an effective weekly work plan. Today, we’ll cover the hidden pitfalls you may encounter.
Have you ever got hot and heavy on a task only to hit a snag because something crucial was missing? We’ve all been there, and it’s no fun! That’s where make-ready needs come in—a total game changer for anyone wanting to get things done without a hitch.
What Are Make-Ready Needs?
Think of make-ready needs as a checklist of everything necessary to carry out a task smoothly. It includes all the essentials like materials, safety gear, equipment, approvals, and vital information. Imagine you’re an installer about to start a job, and boom—your material is out of stock, or your safety equipment is collecting dust elsewhere. Just like that—your progress stalls. Not only is it frustrating, but it also delays the project’s entire timeline.
Avoiding Pitfalls
A common mistake is assuming materials are available just because they’re “on site.” Have you confirmed if they aren’t on backorder or worse—misplaced? Or what about the scissor lift that was never ordered? What if you bring heavy machinery like cranes for air handler units, but you forgot to submit the pic plan? Each oversight can stop you in your tracks.
Make Your List and Check It Twice!
- Special Tools and Equipment: Do you need scissor lifts or a specialized forklift? Write it down. Maybe you’ll require special tools not usually in your toolkit. If you don’t have it on hand, it should be on your list.
- Safety and Certifications: Ensure your safety gear and certifications are set. What if your task demands a confined space attendant? Planning ahead and getting the right resources, training, and certifications beforehand is crucial.
- Supplies and Materials: Have you personally verified every material and resource? Physically check each item to confirm it’s on-site and ready. Whether it’s safety gear or extra people, your project depends on having your ducks in a row.
Taking Action
So how do you ensure all your needs are met? It starts with a plan, and it’s simpler than you might think.
- Write It Down: Grab a pen and paper and jot down every single thing you need. Have you confirmed it’s available? Put your hands on it and check it off your list. Be specific! Is it a particular piece of safety gear or equipment? Have you visually confirmed it?
- Practice Makes Perfect: This isn’t about scoring points; it’s a chance to practice thinking through your project in a calm, collected environment.
- Get Into the Habit: As you get better at identifying make-ready needs, you’ll become more adept at executing them in real time. It’s like muscle memory for your brain!
In summary, make-ready needs are your secret weapon for conquering any project. By planning ahead, verifying your resources, and arming yourself with the right tools and information, you’ll not only complete your tasks but do so efficiently and effectively.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next project now. And remember—when in doubt, make ready! Peace.
In my next blog, I’ll share tips on creating specific, measurable work plans.
If you’d like more ideas for your tool box, check out my resource, The Field Leaders Planning Tool Box.
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