Guide
Crew Start Checklist (Prevent Missed Steps)
Create a 5-minute start checklist: tools, parts, job addresses, access codes, and any special notes for the day. Review all of the day's jobs before the first stop; set a rule that no truck leaves without the checklist done. Add one item whenever a repeat mistake happens (e.g. gate code after a tech was locked out). When you're ready for software, look for a daily start checklist tied to each tech or crew and job details and parts list visible before leaving so the tech can confirm against the truck.
For teams where techs forget tools, parts, or job details and the rest of the day slips.
Next: Create the 5-item checklist and run it for one week; if something gets missed again, add it to the list.
The situation
A tech starts the day, then realizes they forgot a tool or part—or they show up at the wrong address because they didn’t check the list. The job runs long or requires a return trip, and the rest of the day slips.
A 5-minute start routine fixes most of this: same steps every morning, so nothing gets dropped when everyone’s in a rush.
Create a 5-item checklist: tools, parts, job addresses, access codes, and any special notes for the day. Review all of the day’s jobs before the first stop and set a rule that no truck leaves without the checklist done. Add one item whenever a repeat mistake happens.
What usually causes it
- No standard start routine—each tech does their own thing and something gets missed.
- Job details (address, access, special instructions) not reviewed before leaving the shop.
- Tools and parts not checked against the day’s jobs—assumed they’re on the truck.
- First job is the only one reviewed; later jobs get a quick glance or none.
Quick fixes you can try this week
- Create a 5-minute start checklist: tools, parts, job addresses, access codes, and any special notes for the day.
- Review all of the day’s jobs before the first stop—not just the first one.
- Set a rule: no truck leaves without the checklist done. One person can own checking it.
- Add one item to the list whenever a repeat mistake happens (e.g. “gate code” after a tech was locked out).
If you're ready: what to look for
- Daily start checklist tied to each tech or crew so it’s not just a paper form.
- Job details and parts list visible before leaving so the tech can confirm against the truck.
- Parts list per job so they know what to load for each stop.
Mistakes to avoid
- Making the checklist so long that no one uses it every day—keep it to 5–10 items.
- Skipping the checklist when in a hurry—that’s when mistakes happen most.
- Not updating the checklist when the same mistake happens again—add the fix to the list.
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Copy-paste scripts and checklists for this pain: