"Proactive vs. Reactive"

I rarely see a roofing contractor who follows a sequence that is common, and necessary for every project. This procedure never changes, yet we act as if everything is a "surprise".

It is true that we are over regulated, and face many personalities within permitting jurisdictions. Those jurisdictions are individual to each city, county, and state, thus making it very difficult for any type of uniformity within the permitting process. Example: I recently spent a total of 70 hours working on a permit, and it can be enough to frustrate even Job.

Now that I've described what we face, I can tell you that permitting is simply a line item when adhering to procedure. We know that a NOC will be required, complete submittal package, MSDS, safety program (in English, and in Spanish), detailed proposal, notice to owner, insurance certificates, warranties, etc.

Instead of listing the check off items, and completing them in sequence, we seem to (forgive me) follow the "squeaky wheel" theory, and as a result, create confusion and mayhem when it absolutely does not have to happen. I will discuss "Left side of the line" principle in a separate post.

ALL this paperwork is exhaustive, but no matter how much you fight it, you will not win. Understanding that, you will find it is in everyone's best interest if you make the sequence uniform and efficient. It's not very important what you WANT to do, but what you HAVE to do, so grin and bear it.

This may seem penny ante to many of you, but while residential work does not require as much paperwork, the client LOVES to see a safety disc, product literature, a stamped envelope with the completed warranty which they sign, mail, and their warranty information has been recorded. Hey Ron, why don't we pile more paperwork on ourselves?

Well, I can tell you the reward from spending a little time on your clients will elevate you from "Terry Tarbucket", to a professional, and the client will feel secure knowing their best interest is at heart. If you simply regard each structure as if it were your own, you will succeed. If you want to scratch out a price on the bottom of a Burger King bag, you will fail. If you represent yourself as slovenly, the client will receive you that way.

I've written procedure and philosophy numerous times, but it takes a commitment by management to insure it's carried out. Without procedure, you will never be able to identify the source of problems, or corrections. While I'm on the topic, I might share that "Blaming" people is not relevant to anything except ego. As an administrator, you do not get paid to "Blame" people, but to "Solve Problems".

"Ron did it, Ron did it, Ron did it" seems kind of silly doesn't it? Do you think the client cares?

I am trying to impart a philosophy in business I've found very useful. If you want to rise above the competition, think ahead, and provide the items I've mentioned, or come up with your own version. If anyone would like to see a written roofing contractor procedure, I will be happy to provide it. After that, it's on you.

If anyone has a suggestion, or experience to share, it is welcome here.

I am deeply appreciative for the opportunity to share thought with you, and hopefully assist you in some way. Thank you for visiting, and always remember to keep looking "UP".

Be good,

Robert R. "Ron" Solomon