STP Unit 3: Planning and Scheduling

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The purpose of this unit is to equip supervisors with the knowledge and tools to plan, schedule, and control construction projects effectively. By understanding scheduling fundamentals and practicing hands-on applications, participants gain the ability to coordinate work, anticipate challenges, and communicate expectations clearly with crews and stakeholders.

• Importance of Planning and Scheduling
  How proactive planning improves productivity, efficiency, and cost control, while reducing delays and miscommunication.
   
• Work Breakdown and Activity Sequencing
  Developing a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), estimating durations, assigning resources, and sequencing activities logically.
   
• Critical Path Method (CPM)
  Understanding float, dependencies, and the critical path as the driver of project completion.
   
• Schedules as Communication Tools
  Using schedules to coordinate crews, subcontractors, suppliers, and deliveries; ensuring clarity and accountability on the jobsite.
   
• Updating and Adjusting Schedules
  Monitoring actual vs. planned progress, identifying variances, and applying corrective actions such as resequencing work or adding resources.
   
• Schedules as Documentation
  Using schedules for progress payments, cost loading, change orders, and as evidence for delay or extension claims.
   
• Introduction to Scheduling Software
  Exposure to Microsoft Project and comparable tools; creating Gantt charts, linking tasks, and building short-term look-ahead schedules.
   

• Hands-On Microsoft Project Training
  Participants build a small, 3-week schedule from scratch, learning how to enter tasks, set durations, link activities, and update progress.
   
• Case-Based Exercises
  Supervisors practice sequencing activities for real-world construction tasks, identifying critical path items, and preparing look-ahead schedules.
   
• Schedule Review & Communication Practice
  Students review example schedules and practice communicating them to crews and subcontractors, reinforcing the role of schedules as field tools rather than just office documents.
   

By the end of Unit 3, participants will:

• Understand the role of planning and scheduling in successful project delivery.
   
• Prepare and interpret schedules that support field supervision.
   
• Apply critical path concepts in planning and monitoring work.
   
• Use schedules effectively to communicate with crews, subcontractors, and suppliers.
   
• Competently use Microsoft Project for basic scheduling tasks.
   
• Apply schedules as documentation for progress tracking and contractual purposes.