Running a construction business means building, among other things, a reputation that will keep clients coming back for more. Foundational to such a reputation is the quality of the work you produce, and the broader service you provide.
Improving the quality of your output means addressing the processes that generate those outcomes. This involves attention to detail and a forensic approach to self-improvement that extends throughout the organisation. Let’s take a look at what this might really mean.
Define expectations
Holding your employees to a certain standard of performance is all very well and good – but if your employees don’t know what the standard is, then it follows that they’ll struggle to meet it.
For this reason, it’s vital that your expectations be clearly defined. Set them out in writing, perhaps in an employee handbook. You can eliminate the possibility of miscommunication, or crossed wires, by maintaining an open-door policy. When employees feel confused, or uncertain, they should feel at liberty to start a conversation and clarify things.
Proper care for tools and materials
In construction, the tools we use are vitally important. By investing in quality, and setting up a rigorous schedule for maintenance, we can support the work being done. For example, if a given worker is spending any significant time breaking down sheet materials, they will need access to a table saw with a reliable fence. Saw blades, moreover, should be regularly sharpened.
The materials you use are similarly essential. Poor-quality materials will always produce poor-quality results. While there always be a case for economising, this should be done in a way that doesn’t compromise on the final build. Certain materials, like paving slabs, are designed to be installed once and rarely replaced. Make sure that you get it right the first time!
Run regular inspections
When workers are left to their own devices, they might pick up habits that are actually detrimental to the quality they produce. They might have misunderstood your instructions, or they might be actively ignoring them. Even minor problems can compound over time, putting a drain on the quality of your work. Put in a system of regular inspection, and ensure that standards are met.
Get audited
The people within your organisation might develop biases and prejudices that prevent them from seeing problems. For this reason, it’s a good idea to occasionally bring in an impartial third party to provide their own perspective. This is the purpose of an outside auditor.
Use feedback
We’ve already discussed how employees might be encouraged to present their opinions. Having a system for regular feedback can help to facilitate this. Your clients might also have ideas on how your service can be improved. Listen to them!
