I was reading though some older blog posts to get some inspiration. One that I came across from a while ago (blog) emphasized the importance of communication in efficiently executing automation projects.

One question that we get almost every time is about the schedule. We all know that the schedule is one of the most important tools we use to communicate the path of a project, and it also facilitates just what it is we should be talking about at any point in time. You can count on us to not only help you construct a schedule, but more importantly keep to it. It's a rare project indeed where a project falling behind schedule is attributable to the Pendant team.

How Do We Help With The Schedule?

Here are just some of the things we practice to stick to or even outperform the documented schedule.

• We teach our team to emphasize communicating effectively and efficiently. We use tech tools (Slack, JIra, etc) constantly to promote internal conversations that move projects forward.
• We also use tools to get the work done faster and more efficiently. The latter includes the use of our PR017 process we described in this blog post, but also more old school tools like internal pre-project planning sessions (known as the 3PB), daily stand-up type meetings we call The Quotidian, and more detailed weekly project review sessions.
• We're currently rolling out (at a beta site) a new approach to electrical installation that has the potential to cut the time in half to complete the installation, with a cleaner, easier-to-maintain system as the end result. We'll share more details on that in a future blog.
• Once our team is on site to perform the startup and commissioning phase, we use a daily report of what's completed and yet-to-complete so you know at all times where we are in the schedule.
• In the panel shop, our builders are always keenly aware of the schedule and they are involved in the overall project internal communications. In fact, the number one reason we build our own panels rather than outsourcing them is because we own the schedule completely. We target to have the panel(s) on site when the electricians are due to begin the installation phase.
• Our use of standards in all aspects of project execution, including design, programming, software development, panel building, and startup and commissioning creates efficiencies throughout, and enables us to meet schedules even if external factors create problems.
• Having said all that, we also believe that if there is something your team is doing or not doing that endangers the schedule, we owe it to you to call it out so that alternatives are considered or necessary decisions and actions are taken faster.

Schedules matter. When a client invests in an automation project, the return is calculated based on when the project goes live. Delays of days or weeks rob the project of the profit improvements that come with the new system and the additional throughput, improved accuracy, and better insight into the business.

So go ahead and ask about the schedule. Our promise to you - we take it seriously.

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