7:00 am Registration & Networking Breakfast
7:30 am Chair’s Opening Remarks
Workforce Strategies for Modern Project Environments
7:40 am Attracting & Retaining Skilled Planners & Schedulers in a Competitive Labor Market
Synopsis
• Addressing common misconceptions about the complexity and desirability of scheduling roles to attract and retain new talent
• Approaches for identifying, training, and retaining individuals in scheduling roles to build a robust talent pool over time
• Initiatives and strategies to promote careers in scheduling and project controls, ensuring a steady future workforce
8:20 am Panel: Navigating Remote Work Dynamics for Improved Productivity & Collaboration
Synopsis
• Analyzing how remote work affects team dynamics and engagement
• Discussing how the preference for remote work influences recruitment and the negotiation of work terms, particularly in the context of planning and scheduling jobs
• Exploring the use of technology, like virtual collaboration tools and platforms, to mitigate the challenges of remote work in planning and scheduling
9:30 am Morning Refreshments & Networking
Scheduling Innovation
Collaborative Risk Management
10:10 am Audience Discussion: Maximizing Data & Technology for Enhanced Forecasting & Production Management
Synopsis
• Utilizing lead time data for materials and equipment to streamline project planning and procurement
• Addressing challenges and strategies for standardizing data collection and utilization practices
• Exploring technologies to streamline field data gathering processes for construction teams
• Sharing techniques for optimizing analytics to forecast future project requirements and improved resource allocation
10:50 am Accommodating Project Scope Changes to Minimize Risk
Synopsis
• Exploring cost-effective methods for managing major project changes
• Adapting project schedules to meet accelerated completion dates, including efficient timeline restructuring
• Discussing how project managers incorporate buffer or “float” to manage delays effectively
• Developing subcontractor-friendly scheduling solutions for efficient projects, positive relationships, and cost minimization
11:30 am Practical Strategies & Essential Tools of Forensic Delay Analysis to De-Weaponize Schedules & Foster Collaborative Scheduling
Synopsis
• Understanding the foundational concepts of forensic delay analysis and how to apply them
• Exploring the importance of graphical exhibits in forensic delay analysis
• Different methods of forensic delay analysis and how to choose the appropriate method
Departmental Strategy
Building Your Scheduling Department
10:10 am Elevating the Role of Scheduling for Enhanced Project Success
Synopsis
• Discussing how to measure the success of scheduling departments and the impact they have on project outcomes
• Understanding how to move from a siloed role to integral parts of the project team
• Overcoming perceptions of scheduling as a ‘Necessary Evil’ to a valuable strategic tool
• Exploring leadership’s role in transforming the perception and effectiveness of the scheduling function
10:50 am Panel: Mapping Career Paths for Schedulers to Foster an Environment of Continuous Development & Enhance Workforce Retention
Synopsis
• Developing a structured career path for schedulers from entry-level positions to senior roles
• Strategies to prevent career stagnation and provide continuous growth opportunities
• How can we better promote scheduling as a career?
11:30 am Strategies for Developing Essential Scheduling Skill Sets to Empower Autonomy & Success
Synopsis
• Identifying the essential qualities and skills required for an evolving discipline
• Addressing challenges in training junior schedulers when resources are limited and experienced colleagues are busy
• Leveraging project teams to facilitate skill development among schedulers
• Establishing metrics and methods to measure success
12:40 pm Lunch
1:40 pm Leveraging Visualization Tools in Schedule Reporting for Effective Decision-Making
Synopsis
• Communicating complex scheduling data to non-technical stakeholders to ensure clarity and understanding
• Investigating techniques to break down schedule data into manageable chunks, making it easier for field teams to understand and execute tasks effectively
• Exploring how visual planning and dashboard tools can be integrated at both project and division levels to enhance outcomes and promote engagement
2:20 pm Panel: Future-Proofing Construction Schedules to be Fit for the Projects of Tomorrow
Synopsis
- Explore the future of construction scheduling, focusing on innovative tools and technologies poised to reshape the field as projects grow in complexity.
- Discuss critical process improvements and strategies for enhancing stakeholder collaboration to ensure successful project delivery.
- Discover the next steps needed to future-proof construction schedules and consistently deliver projects on time and within budget.