Leader Sets the Scope of Work

The scope of work should be well-defined and not be a broad, ambiguous statement. Providing no expectation, goal, or milestone, then the crew will be busy but what will that accomplish? It is important to have specific instructions and expectations so the crew is informed of the total task.

By providing a more specific goal with well-defined instructions, crews will be able to form a plan. This creates a thought process for the crew on different aspects of the job like staging material, determining the pace of work, managing hazards, and more.

It is also crucial for the crew to stay within the scope of work. Exceeding the scope without specific instructions can lead to confusion and miscommunication. The crew should be informed of the work boundary so that they can organize their thoughts and ideas. Those closest to the work can best figure out the details of how to do the job. They can make these decisions as long as they know the expectation of what needs to be done by the end of the day.

A milestone provides perspective to the crew on how their work fits into the project schedule. This is not to create a sense of urgency, but rather to keep the idea of the total project in mind. Understanding the big picture enables the crew to see their personal value to the project.

Clear communication, defined goals, and expectations are key to having great conversations at the Plan of the Day meetings. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your team is engaged and productive so your project stays on track. Let’s collaborate on improving your conversations!