Travis L Wright’s Scheduling Techniques That Keep Projects on Track
Travis L Wright
When managing a commercial construction project, scheduling is more than just setting deadlines—it’s about keeping the entire ecosystem of workers, vendors, inspections, and deliveries in sync. Over the years, I’ve found that while building codes and site conditions vary, one principle stays constant: if your schedule slips, everything else starts slipping with it.
In my 25+ years working in the construction space across Salt Lake City, Utah, I’ve had to lead complex, multi-phase builds and fast-paced commercial renovations. And while each job presents its own set of challenges, staying on schedule is always one of the most critical—and difficult—tasks.
Here are some of the techniques I use to keep projects running on time without cutting corners.
1. Build from Milestones, Not Just Dates
Instead of obsessing over daily deadlines, I plan around key milestones: site preparation, foundation, framing, inspections, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), and finishing work. Each milestone is treated like its own mini-project with its own deliverables, dependencies, and responsible teams. This gives the entire crew clarity and ownership, not just a calendar to follow.
2. Factor in Buffer Time Like It’s a Real Line Item
Too many builders create “tight” schedules that only work in theory. I always pad high-risk phases like inspections and concrete curing with real buffer time. Not as an afterthought—but as part of the schedule from Day One. When delays inevitably happen, we stay calm because the timeline was designed to flex where it matters most.
3. Weekly Subcontractor Coordination Meetings
Every week, without fail, we hold short coordination meetings with all active subcontractors. We confirm deliverables, walk the site together, and clarify any timeline changes. These 20-minute meetings prevent weeks of miscommunication. I’ve learned that face-to-face clarity saves time, money, and frustration on the backend.
4. Use a Centralized Tracking Tool
While we used to rely on whiteboards and clipboards, I now run all schedules using centralized digital tools. Whether it’s Buildertrend, CoConstruct, or a custom Gantt chart, having one real-time source of truth is non-negotiable. Everyone—from project managers to subcontractors—sees the same timeline and status updates. It minimizes finger-pointing and excuses.
5. Inspect Progress with Your Own Eyes
You can’t manage a construction schedule from an office. I’m on-site multiple times a week walking the job, checking progress, asking hard questions, and watching for signs of delay. Digital tracking is great, but real-world confirmation is where true schedule accountability lives.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Re-Sequence
Things don’t always go according to plan. Instead of forcing the original order of operations, I’m always ready to re-sequence tasks. If tile is delayed, we’ll pivot to paint. If framing crews are held up, we prep for MEP early. Flexibility is just as important as rigidity—it’s how we keep momentum alive.
The Bottom Line
Staying on schedule isn’t about speed—it’s about intentional planning, real-time tracking, and continuous communication. When done right, scheduling doesn’t feel like a burden—it becomes your project’s strongest backbone.
Whether you’re leading a six-month commercial build or a retail renovation in downtown Salt Lake, these techniques can save you thousands in labor costs, prevent burnout on your crew, and protect your client’s trust.
In construction, time truly is money. And with the right system in place, you don’t have to lose either.
More from Travis L Wright, the Construction Advisor
https://travislwright-bcr.blogspot.com/2025/05/travis-l-wright-realities-of-commercial.html
https://travislwrightbcr.wordpress.com/2025/05/12/travis-l-wright-why-i-became-a-commercial-builder/
https://sites.google.com/view/managing-construction-projects/home
https://travislwright.hashnode.dev/travis-l-wright-lessons-ive-learned-on-construction-sites
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