/’kraf(t)smən, Ship/ noun – the quality of design and work shown in something made by hand.
With deadlines always looming, it can be easy to say there is no time for craftsmanship. We live in a disposable age and it seems looking back at work 100, 500, or even 2000 years ago there was a high level of craftsmanship in construction.
Creating Opportunities For Craftsmanship
True, time and budget will have an impact on the pace of a project. Add to that the ups and downs of the economy and there are challenges that come along the way. But looking closer, we can find and create opportunities for craftsmanship each day.
An electrician can take the time to make sure pipes and wires are evenly spaced out. This serves no useful purpose performance-wise. The electricity will flow no more smoothly and many customers won’t even notice. But those clean lines are like an artist’s signature on a painting.
Taking Pride In Your Work
A Project Manager can add a personal touch to a report with a custom font and colors. Even making sure that papers are arranged and stapled squarely shows quality work. The goal is to be able to look at what you did and be proud of it.
At the end of the day, craftsmanship is up to each individual person. It gives you the opportunity to do more than “good enough”. It stands out from the pack when you see it. And when a job is done right, you can see what you accomplished and the results last for years and years.