Client communication is king at Krusinski

A crucial component of successful construction projects is timely communication. At a minimum, owners need to know what to expect, when to expect it, what it will cost and how long it will take.

No one understands this more than Krusinski Construction Company. The firm works closely with clients throughout the life of a project to keep them informed in a number of meaningful ways that can include Web-based updates, e-mails, face-to-face meetings, monthly reports and phone calls.

“Clients really appreciate knowing how projects are taking shape,” says Steve Moeller, project manager at Krusinski. “It helps them stay fully involved – from concept to completion. They feel like they’re truly our partner in the building process.”

Staying in touch with owners also helps Krusinski stay on top of project budgets, schedules and scope. No one appreciates surprises, especially when they involve delays, cost overruns or other potentially thorny issues. Communicating with clients early and often enables owners and Krusinski to work together to head off potential problems proactively.

The firm decides how to disseminate information on a case-by-case basis. On larger projects, for example, clients might be able to enter the secure “Client Access” area of Krusinski’s Web site to access monthly reports. Detailed reports are customized to each client, but usually contain progress photos, cash flow reports and information about completed work, upcoming activities, weather, schedules and any delays or areas of concern. Those clients who are located across the country are not always able to participate in regular on-site meetings and appreciate being able to stay in touch with Krusinski.

Krusinski takes communication a step further by publishing a monthly newsletter for existing tenants or residents who would be affected by construction. In particular, affected parties want to know the duration of a project and what the potential is for noise, traffic and other interruptions. Owners approve the information before it goes out.

“If there’s one thing we can do to help ensure successful outcomes, it is to maintain consistent, well-thought-out communications with owners and stakeholders throughout the course of our projects,” Moeller says. “No matter the size of the project, we never underestimate the importance of communication.”

For more information about how Krusinski communicates with clients, please contact Steve Moeller at stevem@krusinski.com.

Subcontractors dig working with Krusinski

Krusinski expands its capabilities by building and maintaining strong relationships with subcontractors throughout the greater Chicago area. As a result, the company is able to focus on its core competencies while offering a wide range of services under one roof.

Bringing in talented, reliable subcontractors also enables Krusinski to provide the highest-quality services cost-effectively. By working with the trades as a team, the company is able to deliver projects on time, on budget and on target.

And the respect between them is mutual. Area subcontractors give Krusinski high marks in a number of areas, including communication, job site conditions, pay and safety.

“I’ve worked with a lot of companies, and Krusinski is at the top of my list,” says Chuck DiMaria, senior project manager at C.A. Riley Electric Construction Corp. in Elk Grove Village, Ill. “They’ve been very good to this company over many years.”

Specifically, Krusinski knows the industry, has no tolerance for accidents and pays promptly, DiMaria says.

Krusinski treats subcontractors fairly, professionally and with respect, says Don Dardis, executive vice president of Dukane Precast in Naperville, Ill.

“They also address problems proactively and provide answers so that we can move forward,” he adds.

Adds Tim Sullivan, owner of Sullivan Roofing in Schaumburg, Ill., “I wish there were more companies like Krusinski. They run a clean job site; they’re very good with their word – when they tell you something they mean it; and they pay attention to the details, which makes our jobs a lot easier.”

Another company praised Krusinski for giving adequate notice of changes.

“They’re very considerate of us,” says Kevin Kearney, project manager at the Roselle, Ill.,-based Preferred Electrical Construction Corp. “When changes come up on projects, they’re very fair and professional about it. Obviously, they have to look out for their customers, but they treat us equally well.”

All told, Krusinski’s professionals treat subcontractors as they would like to be treated. Whether it’s building buildings or relationships, it’s always a hole-in-one with Krusinski.

For more information about Krusinski’s relationships with subcontractors, please contact Pre-Construction Director John Brady at johnb@krusinski.com.

Dan Gratzl wins DIG award

Krusinski Project Superintendent Dan Gratzl received the first-quarter 2009 Diversify, Improve, Grow (DIG) award. Gratzl was honored at a luncheon on Jan. 30.

A member of the Krusinski team since 2007, Gratzl was selected for his commitment to moving projects forward and providing owners with practicable, cost-effective alternatives involving building details. He was also recognized for being a good mentor for other Krusinski employees.

“Dan is one of our best superintendents,” says Mike Metz, vice president of Krusinski Construction Company. “He comes to work every day with a great attitude and is always looking for ways to help owners.”

Dan Gratzl, project superintendent at Krusinski Construction Company (right), receives the DIG award from company CEO Joseph Krusinski.

Gratzl has more than 36 years’ experience in the construction industry.

To learn more about the DIG program, please contact Gina Krusinski at ginak@krusinski.com.

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