In the fast-paced world of design and construction, project managers play a crucial role in ensuring successful project outcomes. However, becoming an effective leader in this industry comes with its own set of challenges. To shed light on this topic, we delve into a thought-provoking podcast interview titled "Moving the Needle from Theory to Practice with Laura Cooley." The conversation explores key insights and tips for project leaders looking to enhance their skills including three big ideas.
- Systems Thinking
- Improving Communication
- Sparking Organizational Improvements
1. Systems Thinking: Embracing Systems Thinking for Holistic Problem Solving
Laura emphasizes the significance of systems thinking in construction projects, urging leaders to take a holistic approach. She explains, "Systems thinking allows us to identify the interconnectedness of all the moving parts, enabling us to identify and resolve problems holistically." For instance, when dealing with project delays, applying a systems-thinking approach means we would analyze how delays in one area like underground utilities impact other phases of construction like structure rather than getting lost in blaming one trade and ignoring the downstream consequences. By adopting this perspective, leaders can uncover underlying issues and address them at their roots, fostering process efficiency improvements to increase success throughout the project. If your job is trending towards schedule milestone delays and lots of re-planning, it is time to pause and check your planning and execution process. You are likely missing key feedback for information needed by the decision-makers and leaders.
2. Improving Communication: Cultivating Collaboration and Effective Communication
Collaboration and communication lie at the core of construction excellence. Laura highlights the importance of creating a culture of collaboration, where diverse ideas are valued and shared. She emphasizes, "Respecting ideas and sharing and listening to them is crucial for fostering collaboration and innovation." Not utilizing talent is considered one of the eight wastes in Lean, referring to the untapped potential of project team members. To combat this, leaders must create a culture of collaboration. Share the goals honestly, be clear in the deliverables, and genuinely ask for ideas and commitments. Don't tell people what to do. Instead, share with them what needs to be done. By encouraging open communication and valuing diverse ideas, construction teams can harness the project's collective intelligence, leading to improved problem-solving and innovative project solutions.
3. Sparking Organizational Improvements: Integrating Continuous Improvement into the Organizational DNA
Continuous improvement is a driving force behind high-performing construction organizations. Laura underscores the need for leaders to instill a mindset of ongoing learning and improvement. She states, "To drive positive change, leaders must integrate learning into the fabric of their organizations, empowering employees to contribute ideas and make meaningful improvements." We don't build complex projects alone. Likewise, we need to partner with other like-minded change-makers and share our wins and learnings inside and outside of our project boundaries. Creating a network of learners makes for the right social interactions to be supported and give support, especially when things don't go as planned. By embracing a culture of continuous improvement, construction companies can stay agile, adapt to changing circumstances, and deliver promised results.
Becoming an exceptional leader in the design and construction industry requires continuous learning, with purpose, on purpose. By digging into the valuable strategies and tips shared in Laura's podcast interview, construction professionals can take intentional steps toward elevating their leadership skills. Remember, this blog offers a glimpse of the in-depth discussion; for a deeper understanding, I highly recommend listening to the full episode to fully embrace the insights."
Moving the Needle from Theory to Practice with Laura Cooley
https://www.theebfcshow.com/moving-the-Needle-theory-to-practice-laura-cooley/.
