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 Partnering With Owners & Designers for Collaborative Risk Mitigation & Project Success
Synopsis
• Balancing client preferences for specific manufacturers with practical procurement considerations, to manage schedule risks effectively
• Working with design teams to streamline permitting by addressing code compliance and jurisdictional requirements efficiently
• Supporting owners to make informed decisions that align with the project schedule and minimize delays
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: Building Tomorrow & Future-Proofing Construction Schedules
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.