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It's no secret that today's competitive marketplace is squeezing everyone in the construction industry. With the competition for work stiffer than ever, subcontractors
are under extra pressure to perform. Truly savvy construction professionals are using this pressure to their advantage when buying out subcontracts for concrete cutting,
coring and breaking. They're finding those exceptional subcontractors that distinguish themselves as the "go-to guys" who go above and beyond to deliver.
The next time you are looking for a subcontractor, ask them the following questions and you'll separate the "go-to guys" from the rest of the pack:
Do you have a communication plan?
An average subcontractor can usually answer questions about their work when asked, but a "go-to guy" will make it a priority to keep you well informed with scheduled
communications throughout the project. Project managers and field chiefs should keep you up-to-date on production rates, the overall status of your project and adherence
to your schedule. Anything that could impact the completion of your project should be addressed immediately. If any glitches occur, you should be informed immediately
with a plan to resolve them.
How responsive will you be to my calls?
Regularly scheduled communication is important to keep you informed of your job status, but when a subcontractor is throttled by limited resources, it can be hard to get
answers when you need them. A "go-to guy" will always be available with access to the necessary labor and machinery, enabling them to turn on a dime to quickly help you
in an emergency.
How committed are you to my project?
Many subcontractors have a "not my problem" attitude when it comes to issues that are beyond their immediate scope of work. A "go-to guy" will step out of his everyday
role and take the initiative to keep your project on track. He will proactively coordinate with other subs to keep your project on time and on budget.
Does your staffing plan meet my needs?
Most contractors have a rigid approach to staffing. A "go-to guy" has a flexible enough crew to effectively manage a wide range of needs -- from small, one-man/one-day
jobs to large operations involving complete crews of security-cleared technicians. He develops relationships with subcontractors who can accommodate varying labor union
agreements, restricted access considerations and any special requirements for site-specific safety training.
What kind of safety training plan do you have?
Most companies provide some level of jobsite safety training, but today's construction market requires a full-throttle commitment to workplace health. Demand no less
than a comprehensive safety plan that is applied across the organization. Don't settle for the minimal required OSHA 30-hour training; instead make sure your
subcontractor provides thorough new-hire training and ongoing refresher sessions to keep employees current. Additionally, your subcontractor should be committed to
proactively managing risk by having:
- dedicated safety officers responsible for safety planning and oversight
- a manual of safety protocols specific to their scope of work and equipment
- detailed, project-specific safety plans and procedures
- a performance-based incentive program that keeps employees continually focused on safe operations
How do you manage your site?
While construction equipment and crews can be tough on their surroundings, a typical contractor will see this as an unavoidable evil. "Go-to guys" understand your needs
and strive to minimize the impact of their work on you and the environment.
Expect your contractors to:
- practice good worksite housekeeping: be considerate of simple things -- e.g. not tracking mud throughout your facility
- balance their operational footprint with your traffic and access needs: have less cumbersome equipment and keep resources tightly stowed when not in service
- eliminate or mitigate any noise, vibration and airborne pollutants: have alternative methods and equipment to accommodate all site needs
Can you demonstrate my ROI on this project?
Most contractors can manage day-to-day work but are ill suited to more technical projects, while others distinguish themselves as specialists who end up charging
exorbitant prices for their narrow expertise. A "go-to guy" will not only give quality, competitive service on your typical jobs, he will also be an asset when the
project gets challenging. Seek out subcontractors who focus on providing smart, cost-effective solutions that achieve your construction goals without compromising your
budget.
Need a "go-to guy" for your project? CTI has the skills and expertise to get it done right.
Call 856-456-2255 or click here to contact CTI.
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