003 | The SWAG Razor | Maintenance Mindset

In this episode, Paul Rhodes discusses the topic of realistic maintenance team size versus the long-used one per 100-unit standard. He touches on the emotional nature of this topic and the research conducted by the National Apartment Association. The concept of philosophical razors, such as Occam's and Tarzwell's razors, is introduced to simplify the issue. Paul emphasizes using swag (scientific wild assumed guess) in maintenance practices and following manufacturer instructions. He explores factors affecting maintenance team size, the potential impact of centralization and technology, and the need to adjust workflows and decrease headcount. Paul concludes with a call for questions and topics for future episodes. Takeaways: The one maintenance technician per 100 units rule is a general guideline that works in many cases, but it may not be applicable in all situations. Best guesses are often used in maintenance practices, but it is important to gather accurate data and follow manufacturer instructions for optimal results. Factors such as preventive maintenance, turn processes, and work order management can affect the required maintenance team size. Efficiency sizing, centralization, and the use of vendors and contractors can help optimize maintenance operations. Adjusting workflows and improving department communication can lead to more efficient use of time and resources. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Emotional Nature of Maintenance Team Size 02:23 The 1:100 Maintenance Technician per Units Rule 03:53 Philosophical Razors: Occam's Razor and Tarzwell's Razor 06:34 Swag in Maintenance Practices 10:19 Factors Affecting Maintenance Team Size 19:30 The General Rule of One Maintenance Technician per 100 Units 22:24 Centralization and Adjusting Head Count 24:04 Efficiency Sizing and Use of Vendors 25:23 Adjusting Workflows and Decreasing Headcount 28:57 Communication and Expectations between Departments 33:14 Adjusting Workflows: Example of Using Smart Locks 39:18 The Origin and Application of the One per 100 Rule 40:04 Conclusion and Call for Questions