How to Build a World Class Scheduling Team from Scratch with Brady Mercer

Discover how to strategically build and grow a planning and scheduling organization that enhances project predictability and fosters strong relationships.

Watch on Youtube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Challenge

Building a planning and scheduling team from the ground up is no small feat. You're tasked with setting up this crucial department within a large general contractor.

Where do you begin?

What steps ensure you create a team that delivers value and integrates seamlessly with the organization?

Brady Mercer the National Planning & Scheduling Director at JE Dunn Construction joins us this week to tackle the challenge.

Key Takeaways

Assess and Understand Your Starting Point

Evaluate existing resources, including any current schedulers or reliance on consultants.

Understand the organization's goals for the scheduling team—knowing the "why" guides your strategy.

Establish Accessible Processes

Develop living, breathing processes that serve as both a guide and an onboarding tool.

Ensure these processes are accessible to everyone, allowing for consistency across the organization.

Strategically Plan Your Team's Growth

Use resource planning tools to forecast needs based on project backlog and risk profiles.

Balance internal talent development with bringing in external expertise to foster diversity and innovation.

Build Relationships and Cultivate Culture

Prioritize building trust and strong relationships with project teams.

A supportive, empathetic approach enhances collaboration and leads to better project outcomes.

Tactical Takeaway

Begin today by mapping out your scheduling workflow—from initial project pursuit to completion. Create a process map that's easy to understand and accessible to all team members. This not only standardizes your scheduling practices but also serves as a valuable onboarding tool, ensuring alignment and consistency throughout your organization.

Watch on Youtube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Impactful Strategies for Advancing Your Construction Career

Available on Amazon.

Are you ready to transform your career in construction planning and scheduling? Whether you’re starting out or are an experienced professional, "The Critical Path Career: How to Advance in Construction Planning and Scheduling" is your essential guide to achieving success and earning more in your field.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• Specific Career Advancement Steps: Navigate through the distinct stages of career progression, including getting a raise, securing a promotion, and finding a higher-paying job.
• 26 Interview Questions with Sample Answers: Prepare for your next big interview with confidence using expertly crafted questions and answers designed specifically for planners and schedulers.
• 34 Impact Ideas: Implement practical ideas to make a significant impact in your role, enhancing your value and visibility within your organization.
• Become a Top 1% Planner or Scheduler: Learn how the very best differentiate themselves from the crowd.

Why This Book?

Unlike other guides, "The Critical Path Career" is tailored specifically for the construction planning and scheduling community. This book provides the tools and knowledge you need to increase your salary, advance your position, or simply become more effective in your current role.

Available on Amazon.