Last month we talked about the team approach to jobsite planning. Now that we have that down, it is time to go through a step-by-step process of planning and coordinating the job. Here we will take the principles we learned last month and effectively apply them to on-the-job situations.
What is planning?
• Work we do to predetermine a course of action before the fact.
• Systematic approach to a job – it is logical.
• Enables you to determine what should be done: why, when, where, how and who.
Why plan? What are the advantages?
• Prevents us from following our tendency to act before we think.
• Simplifies task (eliminates unnecessary work).
• Makes coordinated effort possible.
• Avoids costly mistakes and rework.
• Allows most effective and efficient use of time, manpower, materials and equipment. Time is money.
• Enables you to determine if you did what should have been done.
Essentials of PlanningWhat is to be done?
• Is job necessary? Is this duplication? Something recent that affects the job?
• Describe job—be specific.
• Avoid misunderstanding. Work toward a common goal.
Why is it to be done?
• Provide justification for job.
• Protect against doing unnecessary work.
When is it to be done?
• When started? Expect time for completion.
• Establish priorities relative to other jobs.
• Determine number of workers, amount of overtime, etc.
• Schedule materials, tools, equipment.
• Anticipate delays and changing priorities.
Where is it to be done?
• Be specific on location.
• Anticipate special conditions or safety hazards.
• Locate materials and equipment properly. Sequence deliveries.
How is it to be done?
• Break down the job into step-by-step procedures.
• Determine requirements for men and material, tools and equipment.
• Review work practices and safety practices.
• Are other departments involved? What approvals are needed?
Who is to do it?
• Determine number of people needed for the job.
• Assign responsibility and types. Will personnel from other departments be involved?
Follow-up
• Is work progressing according to the plan?
• No plan is perfect.
• Adjust to emergencies or unexpected circumstances.
• Assign specific people to do follow-up.
Norb Slowikowski is president of Slowikowski & Associates, Inc., Darien, Ill.
