Every project manager should track their job like a golf scorecard.🏌‍♂️ Here’s what I mean: I learned this framework from Scott Kimpland. He calls it the Golf Scorecard Method. On a golf course,…

Beyond Spreadsheets: How the “Golf Scorecard Method” is Revolutionizing Project Management

For decades, project managers have relied on complex software and lengthy reports to track progress. But what if a simpler, more intuitive approach could dramatically improve accuracy and prevent costly overruns? Increasingly, the answer lies in a surprisingly analog concept: the golf scorecard.

The Origins of a Powerful Framework

Scott Kimpland, a partner at FMI Corporation with 38 years of experience in the construction industry, champions this method. He argues that most project managers are merely “spectators to margin erosion” because they lack real-time visibility into project health. Kimpland’s “Golf Scorecard Method” provides a solution, focusing on breaking down projects into manageable “bite-sized pieces” and tracking performance against established standards.

Par for the Course: Setting Production Standards

The core principle is borrowed directly from golf. Just as every hole has a par, every component of a project should have a defined production standard. This isn’t about arbitrary targets; it’s about establishing a realistic baseline for cost and productivity. Kimpland suggests breaking down projects by component (sitework, foundations, structure, MEP, finishes), then by system (service & main distribution, power distribution, low voltage), and finally by floor and zone (Level 1, 2, 3 lighting – labor/material, Zone A, B, C, etc.).

Setting “par” allows project managers to move beyond lagging indicators (like overall budget variance) and focus on leading indicators. Tracking actual cost and productivity against these standards at key milestones – 24%, 40%, and 60% completion – provides early warnings of potential problems.

Catching Problems Early: The 10% Rule and Beyond

The benefits of this proactive approach are significant. According to Kimpland, the average project manager doesn’t identify overruns until projects are 80% complete, at which point course correction is often difficult and expensive. Elite project managers, however, spot issues at around 20% completion, giving them ample time to adjust strategies and mitigate risks.

This aligns with what’s known as the “Fatal 10% Rule” in labor-intensive work: if you’re 10% over on labor costs, you’re likely facing significant financial trouble. Early detection, facilitated by the Golf Scorecard Method, allows for swift intervention.

Real-Time Job Tracking: Empowering Foremen

The effectiveness of this method hinges on empowering those on the front lines. Foremen need to know “what par is on every hole” – meaning they need clear visibility into the production standards for their specific tasks. This fosters accountability and enables them to proactively identify and address issues before they escalate.

The Future of Project Management: A Shift Towards Simplicity

While sophisticated project management software will continue to evolve, the underlying principles of the Golf Scorecard Method suggest a growing demand for simpler, more intuitive tools. The focus is shifting from data overload to actionable insights. Expect to spot more project management systems incorporating visual dashboards and real-time performance tracking against clearly defined standards.

This trend isn’t limited to construction. Any labor-intensive industry – manufacturing, engineering, even software development – can benefit from breaking down complex projects into smaller, measurable components and tracking progress against established benchmarks.

FAQ

Q: Is the Golf Scorecard Method a replacement for project management software?
A: No, it’s a framework that can be integrated *with* existing software. It provides a more focused approach to tracking key performance indicators.

Q: How do I determine “par” for my project?
A: “Par” is your established production standard, based on historical data, industry benchmarks, and realistic assessments of resource availability.

Q: What if my project is unique and doesn’t have clear historical data?
A: Start with conservative estimates and refine them as you gather data throughout the project.

Q: Is this method only applicable to construction?
A: While originating in construction, the principles of breaking down work, setting standards, and tracking progress apply to any project-based industry.

Pro Tip: Don’t get bogged down in overly complex metrics. Focus on the 2-3 key indicators that have the biggest impact on project success.

What strategies do you employ to track project costs and identify potential issues early on? Share your thoughts in the comments below!