First Run Studies
We don't leave planning to chance
At Donley’s, we are always looking for ways to make our construction projects more Lean and efficient. That’s why we use a tool called the First Run Study (FRS), which is a planning process that applies past lessons to future tasks. This is accomplished by getting feedback from those closest to the work.
Eliminate the waste | A case for First Run Studies
The idea of an FRS is to ensure our work is fully planned and we have everything needed to complete the task.
An FRS has four components:
- Plan: We set the goals, scope, and expectations of the activity, and collect the data and information we need.
- Do: We follow the plan, and watch and record what happens.
- Check: We look at the data and see how well we did compared to what we expected.
- Act: We make the changes and use the best practices for the next time.
An FRS is not something we do once and forget about, but something we repeat regularly to learn and improve. By doing FRSs throughout a project, we can make our processes better and deliver better results for our clients. An FRS also helps us work together and learn from each other as a team by sharing our knowledge and expertise.
Donley’s process has evolved to include over 60 specific FRS templates. These FRSs are held at 8-weeks and 2-weeks prior to starting that particular element. Examples of these include cast-in-place walls, columns, decks, and stairs. These workbooks are designed to help those who are new or inexperienced in planning the work, by showing them what works and what doesn’t. They include lessons learned from past projects that can be applied to all projects moving forward.
First Run Studies are key to making our construction projects more efficient. By regularly applying the FRS method—plan, do, check, act—we cut down on waste and improve our results. This ongoing process not only helps us refine our methods but also encourages teamwork and shared learning.