Gauging productivity can be challenging, especially when your operations are complex and vary between job sites. However, you can measure and improve equipment productivity in construction over time. The higher your productivity, the more you’ll see increased production rates and profitability with decreased downtime.
Jump to Sections:
- Own and Operate a Fleet From a Single Brand
- Use the Right Equipment
- Monitor Operating Records for Equipment
- Invest in Certified Used Equipment
- Hire Skilled Operators and Trained, On-Site Supervisors
- Manage Workflow and Project Timelines
- Adhere to Planned Maintenance Schedules
- Utilize Construction Machine Data and Analytics
8 Ways to Boost Construction Equipment Productivity
As a contractor, you care about your construction equipment’s productivity rates. After all, managing a construction site involves renting, buying or leasing equipment and maintaining and operating machines. Therefore, efficient and effective approaches contribute to construction equipment productivity norms.
1. Own and Operate a Fleet From a Single Brand
Exclusively using one brand creates a systematic and straightforward approach for operators. In addition, brand recognition allows for convenient access and consistent operation, so your foreman can focus on the task at hand and find a routine. Also, when a problem arises, you only have to contact one company to repair the damaged equipment, replace the broken part, or upgrade the outdated technology.
2. Use the Right Equipment for Jobs
Some jobs require different sized equipment than what you have on hand. However, oversized equipment adds costs to the project, while undersized machinery adds time to the schedule. Choose the proper tools, equipment and machinery to increase the work your operators finish and decrease the frustration you have with delays or redos. When you invest in high-quality products to get the job done, workers get more done in less time.
3. Monitor Operating Records for Equipment
Developing your record-keeping skills pays off when trying to boost construction equipment productivity. Vital data includes information about operating costs, operating hours and return on investment (ROI) to help you maximize production time and extend the machine’s life span.
Downtime wastes money and delays projects. When you have the information you need, you can make changes to decrease idle time and other factors that contribute to construction equipment productivity rates:
- Operating costs: Keep track of fuel usage, maintenance and repair expenses, insurance costs, depreciation values and non-productive time.
- Operating hours: Record when you or your crew uses the equipment for a duration of time.
- Return on investment (ROI): Determine your profitability by measuring operating costs compared to the value of the equipment as standardization and safety often impact ROI.
You can create a spreadsheet to manually account for these records or invest in software that automatically generates these records.
4. Invest in Certified Used Equipment for Projects
There’s a common misconception that you have to buy new equipment to succeed in any industry. In reality, you can find well-trusted and well-maintained options from certified suppliers. If reputable mechanics service the equipment correctly, buying or renting used machinery allows for lower upfront costs at the same productivity rates.
5. Hire Skilled Operators and Trained, On-Site Supervisors
The best way to increase productivity is to employ skilled operators and trained, on-site supervisors. Qualified operators know how to operate machinery with distinct control systems and niche technology. Active, attentive supervisors eliminate potential safety hazards, maintain employee attendance records and oversee other tasks to keep your operations moving smoothly.
Employee training can remind employees of former expectations and teach them new rules and regulations. By acknowledging excellent performance, you create a culture where workers feel safe, comfortable and productive.
6. Manage Workflow and Project Timelines
As a contractor, you know how challenging it can be to create accurate timelines based on labor, the arrivals of material and equipment delivery. Aim to determine exact dates and times for equipment delivery and estimated dates and times for projects. Workflow can improve when you provide standards for productivity norms.
7. Adhere to Planned Maintenance Schedules
Regular preventative maintenance is necessary for finding issues early and preventing severe breakdowns later. Operators should check machines at the beginnings and ends of their shifts, looking for damage such as leaks, cracks, dirt and defective parts. Oil and fluid analysis provides an overview of the machine’s health to identify problems ahead of time.
8. Utilize Construction Machine Data and Analytics
Construction equipment productivity software offers data and analytics that you can use on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Equipment technology allows you to manage and monitor your day-to-day operations. With SITECH® software or solutions from other machine data providers, you can see your fleet’s health and performance, recognize safety issues and automate repetitive tasks or processes.
Improve Construction Equipment Productivity With Carolina Cat
If you want more information about construction equipment productivity, Carolina Cat can help. Contact us today to learn how we can help you improve your construction equipment’s productivity.