FriesWay Work Smart System
B.R. Fries Best Practices Project Management System
At B.R. Fries, exceptional results begin with a disciplined process. The proprietary FriesWay Work Smart System is a best-practices project management framework developed to deliver predictable, measurable outcomes for every client. Created in-house with the participation of our entire team and in collaboration with FMI, the nation’s leading construction management consulting firm, the system combines structured planning, standardized procedures, and performance controls to ensure consistent excellence.
The FriesWay Work Smart System emphasizes rigorous pre-planning to define project objectives, client expectations, and potential challenges. This disciplined approach continues through pre-construction and construction, aligning all stake-holders, including subcontractors and suppliers, under a consistent framework for communication, coordination, and accountability. Standardized documentation and controls promote transparency and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle. To further enhance collaboration and reduce risk, B.R. Fries utilizes Procore as its project management platform.
Industry research shows that a significant portion of construction labor costs is lost to nonproductive activity, often due to ineffective planning and communication. The FriesWay Work Smart System addresses these inefficiencies by improving coordination and reducing waste, allowing B.R. Fries to deliver greater value through optimized schedules, controlled costs, and superior workmanship.
Our Process
PRECONSTRUCTION COORDINATION & PLANNING:
Constructability reviews begin during estimating and continue through pre-construction. Input from vendors and subcontractors informs material selection, lead times, and scheduling. Upon the assignment of a qualified and experienced project team, structured planning sessions are held with the estimating team to establish project goals, clarify client expectations and identify potential risks. A comprehensive Pre-Job Planning Checklist drives accountability and readiness from Day One.
CLIENT KICK-OFF
Collaborative meetings with the client, design professionals and consultants to identify challenges, confirm design intent, and align priorities. These sessions create a shared vision for success and set the framework for seamless execution.
CONSTRUCTION COORDINATION
Trade coordination meetings resolve system conflicts prior to installation. Two-week look-ahead schedules guide field operations, while active management of submittals, RFIs, and compliance document -ation keeps projects on track. Regular safety meetings and quality reviews reinforce performance standards.
OWNER COMMUNICATION
Weekly owner meetings and conference calls provide transparent updates on schedule, cost, and progress. Change requests are managed through a streamlined, clearly documented process that ensures accuracy, fairness, and accountability.
EXIT STRATEGY
An Exit Strategy meeting is held with the client and design team to review a comprehensive Close-out Checklist, confirming expectations and address any outstanding issues. Internally, our project team conducts Exit Strategy meetings to discuss the check-list, establish procedures and responsibilities for an orderly and timely completion.
Project Close-Out
A full Construction Project Closeout is more than just “finishing the work”, it is the structured process of verifying performance, documenting what was built, and formally handing the project over to the owner. A structured close-out process is initiated at 66% of project completion. The resulting closeout, exit strategy and action plan are communicated to subcontractors and field personnel for coordinated execution, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition to project completion and owner occupancy. The major component parts include:
1. Physical Completion of Work
- Completion of all contract scope
- Punch list creation and completion
- Final inspections by architect/engineer
- Correction of deficiencies
- Site cleanup and demobilization
2. Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing
- HVAC testing and balancing
- Electrical system testing
- Plumbing and fire protection testing
- Verification that systems meet design intent
3. Commissioning
- Commissioning plan and schedule
- Pre-functional checklists
- Functional performance testing
- Verification of controls and sequences
- Documentation of results
- Resolution of deficiencies
- Final commissioning report
4. Contractual Closeout
- Certificate of Substantial Completion
- Final change order reconciliation
- Final payment application
- Contractor release of claims
5. Turnover to Client (Handover)
Formal transfer of responsibility and control:
- Delivery of closeout documents
- Owner acceptance sign-off
In simple terms:
Closeout =
- Build it
- Test it
- Prove it works
- Document it
- Train the owner
- Legally close the contract
- Hand it over
The Result
The FriesWay Work Smart System delivers:
- Safety First for all project participants
- Projects completed on time and within budget
- Transparent communication and accountability
- Reduced waste and improved efficiency
- Measurable value for clients
B.R. Fries is committed to completing each project with the same level of excellence applied at its inception. Through disciplined planning and execution, B.R. Fries provides a superior project experience and dependable results on every project.
