Request: Operations Manual

[umsco226]

I've had a tough time explaining the necessary procedure to my employees. I'm not sure if that says more about my management skills, or about my employees ability to follow instructions.

But regardless, I've decided to write an Operations Manual for procedures and steps required at the job site, with equipment, etc.

I'm not referring to an employee handbook, where I explain things like workplace harassment, and PPE and such, I've already got one of those.

I am referring to a manual that explains the steps that they need to do on certain jobs.


Anyways, I've got some ideas in my head, but I'm having a really tough time structuring it, and finding enough information to write about. I would really appreciate if someone was willing to send me theirs as a rough outline to get me started. I'd be willing to pay if necessary, I just need to get the ball rolling.

[umsco226]

...bump?
Sorry to be that guy.

[DiscoDave]

Originally Posted by umsco226

.... I'd be willing to pay if necessary, I just need to get the ball rolling.

I have been thinking about putting together and selling a training manual for this very reason.... How much would you (and other folks) be willing to pay for a comprehensive manual that includes a workbook and tests?

[zimmatic]

Dave,

have you developed that manual? Or have a form of it? Willing to provide a copy for a fee?

[Duekster]

So you want how to run a line trimmer 101?

[TurfWerks]

This type of stuff isn't rocket science.. Or... maybe it is...??

What kind of stuff are you wanting to provide instructions for? Planing shrubs or pushing a lawn mower?? Maybe spraying?

Most of that stuff just requires proper training... if they don't get it after that they are not able to be helped.. just sayin..

[McFarland_Lawn_Care]

It's not rocket science but if you want an efficient business you need to put training manuals in place. I am writing it ALL down over this winter. From how to trim, to how to shut down a mower, when to fuel up the truck, etc. It will go a long way to keeping everyone on the same page and know what is expected of them. As you grow, your workers can train new guys from the manuals. Even some videos would help too. It's not going to be perfect. Anything is better than nothing and you can tweak it as you go. It's a new endeavor for me to, but I'm excited. Also doing a list of responsibilities for each position, so it's not "did anyone check the oil today?" "We are running out of mower blades"...."anyone seen this tool or that?"...


Jason

[ELS Landscape]

I think equipment inspection check list and logs would go a long way.

I have two guys that speak english pretty well. One reads pretty fair the other does not. One has very poor english but I think he understands more than he lets on.

[McFarland_Lawn_Care]

Good help is hard to come by but everyone speaks English up here ...maybe a little Canadian accent but that's as bad as it gets lol

[ELS Landscape]

My help is fine. They are screened through ICE. I even did an independent audit with a verification letter.
Two of my guys have over 20 years of experiance each. They have been with me over 7 years.

Just saying that investing in a huge written manual is not always the best solution.