WHAT IS THE
MUTUAL-ACTION-PLAN
Installing the Systems for Predictable Builder Growth
The High Cost of Disconnected Systems
For many talented builders, growth stalls due to fragmented processes and outdated systems. This leads to unpredictable lead flow, wasted resources, shrinking margins, frustrated clients, and owner burnout – trapping you in a reactive cycle that prevents strategic scaling.
Your Path to Predictable Profitability
The MAP™ is your structured, hands-on pathway to systematic growth. In six weeks, we implement foundational systems across the critical areas of your business, leveraging technology and automation to drive efficiency and results.
We blend proven operational blueprints with cutting-edge technology and AI to create your engine for sustainable success.
THE MAP
THE SIX SYSTEMS
EVERY BUILDER NEEDS
Go beyond theory. In six weeks, we install the AI-enhanced systems you need to run a predictable, profitable building business.
The 6-Week Mutual-Action-Plan (MAP™) is our intensive, hands-on implementation program where we roll up our sleeves alongside you. We don't just advise; we build. During the MAP™, we install and tailor the 6 Core Systems essential for eliminating chaos and driving scalable growth, strategically integrating practical AI tools to maximize efficiency:

GOAL SETTING & STRATEGY
  • Establish clear targets, track progress effectively, and make data-driven decisions for long-term success.
LEADFLOW & MARKETING
  • Attract consistent, high-quality leads and stop wasting marketing dollars – powered by AI for smarter targeting and qualification.
SALES & REVENUE OPERATIONS
Convert more leads into profitable projects with a predictable, structured sales process and AI-driven insights.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
  • Ensure smooth project delivery, maintain margins, and improve communication from start to finish.
CLIENT SUCCESS & GROWTH
  • Create delighted clients who become repeat business and powerful referral sources.
HIRING & TEAM DEVELOPMENT
  • Build and empower a high-performing team aligned with your goals.
Upon completing the MAP™, you'll have a fully operational, systemized foundation built for predictability and profit.
OUR APPROACH
For each week, our collaborative process follows a consistent pattern:
  • Assessment - We thoroughly examine what's working and what's not in your current systems
  • Prioritization - Together, we identify which issues will create the biggest immediate impact
  • Initial Framework Development - We create customized templates and processes for your specific business
  • Action Planning - We develop a clear roadmap for continued improvement beyond the 6-week program

SYSTEM 01

Building Your Business to Work FOR You Smart Strategy & Knowing Your Numbers Running a successful building company means you're juggling countless demands – from managing projects and crews to ensuring client satisfaction. With so much focus on the day-to-day operations, it can be tough to carve out dedicated time for strategic planning or to really get under the hood of your financials. Yet, a clear strategy and a strong understanding of your numbers form the absolute foundation of a business that not only survives but prospers, allowing you to reap the rewards of your hard work and risk without being chained to the business. This system is designed to help you build that foundation, providing a clear roadmap and practical financial insights, step-by-step, so you can achieve lasting control and profitability. EXPECTED OUTCOMES: achievement of quarterly strategic objectives/KPI targets sustainable year-over-year revenue or profit growth rate variance in quarterly financial forecasts (improved accuracy) actions We focus on giving you a clear roadmap and the financial confidence to make smart decisions, day in and day out. Nail Down Your Big Picture We’ll sit down for real-deal Annual Strategic Planning. Think of it as creating the master blueprint for your business's future – what you want it to look like in 1, 3, even 5 years. (We use tools like the Painted Picture to make this crystal clear). Together, we'll map out the main highways to get you there: your ideal jobs, who you want to work for, and what makes you the go-to builder. Master Your Numbers Let's face it, Profit & Loss statements, Balance Sheets, and Cash Flow can feel like another language if you haven't been formally trained in them. We’ll break it down, step-by-step, so you understand these vital signs of your business health – what you’re making, what you own and owe, and the actual cash moving through your company. We’ll look at your past numbers to see what’s working and where the profit leaks might be. Job Costing is King: We’ll make sure you have a simple, solid way to know if each job is actually making you money. This is non-negotiable for a healthy business. Get ahead of cash flow surprises. We’ll set up straightforward ways to predict your cash needs so you’re always prepared. Set Goals and surpass them Forget vague ideas. We’ll help you pinpoint the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) – the handful of critical numbers (both on the job site and in the bank) that tell you if you’re winning. Think profit margins, how quickly you get paid, and what your overhead really is. We’ll set clear, achievable targets (we call them OKRs – Objectives and Key Results) that tie directly to your big picture plan and your money goals. Make Accountability a Habit, Not a Hassle We'll establish a simple rhythm for checking in – like regular Pit Stops. Think Annual Planning tune-ups, Quarterly progress checks, and quick Monthly money check-ins. This keeps everyone on the same page and moving forward. You’ll get easy-to-read reports and dashboards so you can see your progress on those key numbers at a glance. No more digging through piles of paper. When we make changes or roll out new systems, we’ll help you get your team on board smoothly. We’ll constantly compare where you are to where you want to be, making smart adjustments along the way. Why It Matters Stop Guessing, Start Earning What You’re Worth: Finally understand where your money is really going and ensure every job is priced right to make you the profit you deserve. No more working hard just to break even. Get a Grip on Your Cash Flow (and Sleep Better at Night) A smooth, flowing river instead of a chaotic one, or a calendar with no cash-crunch surprises. Build the Business You Actually Dreamed Of Turn that vision you have for your company into a real, achievable plan. Know where you’re going and exactly how to get there, making decisions with confidence. PRO TIP | Set clear, simple goals you can actually measure (SMART goals are great for this). Make sure someone owns each important task. And here’s a big one: look at your key numbers regularly – weekly, if you can. It’s like checking your levels on a big job; it tells you if you’re on track or if you need to make an adjustment before things go sideways. deliverables BASELINE & SYSTEMS AUDIT A clear, honest look at where your business stands right now – operationally and financially. We’ll see what’s strong, what needs work, and measure it against where you started. Your Roadmap to Profit: A 1-3 Year Game Plan with Real Numbers: Your business blueprint, plain and simple. It’ll show your big goals, who you’re serving, and what you’re aiming for, backed by realistic financial targets (what you expect to earn, spend, and keep). The Builder’s Guide to Financial Control Simple guides, checklists, and tools made for builders like you. Learn to understand your financial reports without needing an accounting degree, nail your job costing, and get control of your cash flow. These are those "light bulb moment" tools. Your Goal-Getting System: Keeping Everyone on Track: A straightforward way to set goals each year and quarter, track ‘em, and make sure everyone knows their part. Regular check-ins (Rhythmical Accountability) are built-in. Ongoing Monitoring & Continuous Improvement Plan A plan for keeping an eye on those vital business and financial numbers, with simple dashboards and reports. We’ll show you how to use this info to keep getting better and more profitable. Helpful Tools & Resources We’ll Use Painted Picture Vision Framework Visualization exercise that creates a compelling and detailed picture of your desired future One-Page Strategic Plans Concise planning documents that align vision with practical execution steps Goal Setting & Review (GSR) Dashboards Visual management system for tracking progress and creating accountability MBP File Master Business Plans that document all processes, policies, and systems in one centralized location Employment Agreements Behavioral interview frameworks that accurately predict candidate success in specific roles Open Book Management Assessment Evaluation tool for determining if financial transparency will benefit your specific team Painted Picture Creation Complete the Painted Picture Vision Framework to create a detailed description of your ideal future business. 30/60/90 Day Strategic Plan Develop a phased implementation plan with specific objectives and key results. Performance Tracking System Implement a dashboard for monitoring key business metrics and holding team members accountable for results. Your First Steps: Let's Get Started Painted Picture Creation Picture Your Perfect Business: Grab the Painted Picture Vision Kit. Spend some real time thinking about and writing down what your ideal business looks like in 3-5 years. What kind of jobs? How big is your crew? How much profit are you making? How does it make you feel? 30/60/90 Day Strategic Plan Take a Quick Peek Under the Hood (Financially): Pull out your Profit & Loss reports for the last year or two. Using our "Financials, Simplified" guide, what are 2-3 things that jump out at you, good or bad? No judgment, just honest observation. Performance Tracking System Set Some 90-Day Targets: Based on your vision and that quick financial peek, what are 2-3 main things you want to achieve in the next 90 days? Maybe it's understanding your job costs better, or getting a specific type of new lead. Let's talk about it.

SYSTEM 02

Mastering LeadFlow Building a consistent, predictable stream of qualified leads. We implement targeted marketing strategies, optimize your CRM for lead capture/nurturing, and deploy AI tools for efficient qualification and outreach automation (leveraging platforms like Apollo.io and HubSpot where appropriate). EXPECTED OUTCOMES increase in qualified lead volume from diversified channels reduction in cost per lead acquisition improvement in lead-to-consultation conversion rates actions Focus: Defining a unique market position and building a consistent lead generation system. Assess current lead sources and their effectiveness. Explore potential market positioning angles based on strengths and competitor analysis. Identify gaps in the existing lead generation approach. Prioritize 2-3 high-impact lead flow initiatives. Define the Ideal Client Profile (ICP). Why It Matters Without a steady flow of qualified leads, even the best operational systems will struggle to generate consistent revenue, creating feast-or-famine cycles that prevent predictable growth and cause unnecessary stress. Pro Tip: Interview a few past happy clients to uncover what they loved, what they feared, and why they chose you over competitors – this is gold for positioning. deliverables Lead GenerationBaseline Report Assesses current lead sources, costs, conversion rates, and overall marketing effectiveness. Ideal Client Profile & Positioning Statement Defines the target audience, their needs, and the company's unique market differentiation. Marketing Channel & Tactics Matrix Identifies and prioritizes the specific channels (e.g., SEO, social, ads) and tactics to be used. LeadFlow Improvement Plan Prioritized roadmap and action steps for implementing new marketing initiatives and optimizing lead generation.

SYSTEM 03

Optimizing Sales Operations Converting more qualified leads into profitable projects, faster. We install a streamlined sales process (Customer Centric/SPICED frameworks), configure proposal automation, implement job costing best practices, and use AI insights for pipeline visibility and forecasting. EXPECTED OUTCOMES increase in proposal-to-contract conversion rate increase in average project value without sacrificing close rate reduction in sales cycle length from lead to signed contract actions Focus: Engineering a predictable sales process and establishing financial controls for profitability. Map the current sales journey from initial contact to closed deal. Analyze conversion rates, sales cycle length, and profitability at each stage. Identify bottlenecks, points of friction, and areas for margin improvement. Develop standardized sales toolkit (scripts, proposals, etc.) based on a Customer Centric Sales Framework. Implement systems for accurate Job Costing and Overhead Tracking. Develop framework for Annual Budgets linked to sales forecasts. Create process for Sales & Production Planning to align capacity with demand. Define and track key Sales metrics (conversion rates, cycle time, pipeline value) via Trackers. Why It Matters An inefficient sales process or poor financial visibility leaks revenue, erodes margins, and hinders informed decision-making. Pro Tip: Ensure your pricing strategy accurately reflects project costs and the value delivered to the client to protect margins. deliverables Sales MetricsBaseline Report Analysis of the current sales process map, key sales metrics, financial controls, and profitability visibility. Standardized sales toolkit A collection of approved scripts, proposal templates, email sequences, and qualification criteria. Key Bottleneck & Margin Analysis Specific identification of friction points in the sales process and areas impacting profitability. sales improvement plan Prioritized actions to refine the sales process, implement the toolkit, improve financial tracking (costing, budgeting), align sales/production, and address bottlenecks. Resources Sales Scripts Proven consultation frameworks that position you as an advisor rather than a vendor, increasing close rates and project values Sales Forecasts Dynamic financial modeling tools that predict revenue flows, helping you make informed hiring and investment decisions Proposal System Setup Guide Templates and workflows that systematize your proposal process, saving time while improving conversion rates Deal Scoring Matrix Objective evaluation system that helps prioritize the right projects and clients for maximum profitability Price for Profit Planning Sheet Margin-focused pricing calculator that ensures every project contributes appropriately to overhead and profit HOMEWORK Sales Process Mapping Document your current sales process and implement the SPICED sales methodology frameworks into your consultation approach. Proposal System Development Configure and customize your proposal templates in your selected platform with standardized sections, pricing tiers, and automated follow-up sequences. Revenue Forecasting Implementation Create a 12-month revenue projection based on your pipeline, close rates, and average project values.

SYSTEM 04

Streamlining Project Management Delivering exceptional projects efficiently and predictably. We establish clear workflows, standardize communication protocols (internal & client-facing), implement quality control checkpoints, and optimize your project management software setup EXPECTED OUTCOMES projects completed on or ahead of schedule reduction in scope creep and unplanned change orders improvement in client satisfaction scores during execution phase actions Focus: Systematizing project delivery and proactively mapping the client experience. Define clear project phases, milestones, and internal handoffs. Map the client journey throughout the project, identifying key touchpoints and communication needs. Standardize project planning, documentation, and internal/external communication protocols. Implement quality control checkpoints and procedures throughout the project lifecycle. Select and configure project management tools for task tracking, scheduling, and resource allocation. Implement time management techniques like Block Scheduling and clear Delegation practices. Why It Matters Poor project management leads to delays, budget overruns, inconsistent quality, frustrated clients, and an over-reliance on the owner for day-to-day problem-solving. Pro Tip: Create a "decision deadline calendar" that visually shows clients exactly when each choice needs to be finalized to maintain the project timeline – this single tool can prevent the most common cause of project delays and budget overruns. Pro Tip: Conduct brief post-project reviews ("retrospectives") to identify what went well and what could be improved for the next project. deliverables PROJECT MANAGEMENT Baseline Report Review of current workflows, communication effectiveness, client journey pain points, and tool usage. Standardized Project Workflow & Client Journey Map Defined process map including key internal steps and proactive client-facing touchpoints/communications. Quality Assurance Checklists & templates Standards for quality and pre-defined client communications for key milestones. sales improvement plan Actions for rolling out the new workflow, map, QA, communications, tools, and team training. Resources Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Documented step-by-step processes that ensure consistent execution regardless of who performs the work Client Welcome Package Template Comprehensive onboarding materials that set clear expectations and prevent misunderstandings Decision Timeline Framework Visual schedule that shows clients exactly when decisions must be made to maintain project timelines RICE Prioritization Guide Data-driven task prioritization method that focuses efforts on high-impact activities first Remodeling Process Playbook Client-facing guide that explains your process, reduces anxiety, and prevents common misunderstandings HOMEWORK Client Onboarding Sequence Develop a welcome package and communication sequence for newly signed clients. Decision Timeline Framework Create a project-specific timeline template that clearly communicates client decision deadlines. RICE Prioritization Implementation Implement the RICE prioritization framework for project tasks using the RICE Scoring Template.

SYSTEM 05

Client Success & Growth Maximizing lifetime value and generating referrals. We build automated systems for gathering feedback/testimonials, implement structured referral request processes, and create frameworks for ongoing client engagement. EXPECTED OUTCOMES: increase in client referral generation from completed projects increase in positive online reviews and testimonials increase in repeat business from existing clients actions Focus: Maximizing lifetime value through proactive client retention, referral generation, and identifying growth opportunities. Develop a system for gathering client feedback and testimonials upon project completion. Implement a structured process for requesting referrals from happy clients. Create a plan for ongoing communication and value-add engagement with past clients. Identify opportunities for repeat business, upsells, or maintenance/service agreements. Establish metrics to track client satisfaction, retention rate, and referral generation. Why It Matters Failing to nurture past client relationships leaves significant revenue on the table and ignores your most powerful marketing asset – happy customers. Pro Tip: Make asking for a testimonial or referral a standard part of your project closeout process when the client's satisfaction is highest. deliverables Client RetentionBaseline Report Analysis of current client satisfaction levels (e.g., NPS), retention rates, referral rates, and existing feedback/engagement methods. Client Feedback & Testimonial System Standardized process, surveys, and templates for consistently collecting and utilizing client feedback. Referral Generation Documented strategy and toolkit for requesting referrals and maintaining valuable long-term client relationships. Client Management Improvement Plan Actions to implement the feedback system, referral program, engagement activities, and track success metrics. Resources 300-Point Quality Assurance Checklist Comprehensive inspection framework that ensures consistent quality standards across all projects Sample Organizational Charts Proven team structures for different business sizes and growth stages that clarify roles and reporting relationships Competency Models Detailed skills and behavior frameworks that define what excellence looks like in each position RACI Template Responsibility assignment matrix that clarifies who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for each task Ultimate Operations Handbook Complete operations manual covering every aspect of project execution from pre-construction to final delivery HOMEWORK Client Onboarding Sequence Develop a welcome package and communication sequence for newly signed clients. Decision Timeline Framework Create a project-specific timeline template that clearly communicates client decision deadlines. RICE Prioritization Implementation Implement the RICE prioritization framework for project tasks using the RICE Scoring Template.

SYSTEM 06

Developing High-Performers Building the internal capacity and structure for growth. We help define roles/responsibilities, establish standardized onboarding/training, implement performance feedback loops, and optimize recruitment processes (including Ideal Candidate Profiles and Behavioral Interviewing). EXPECTED OUTCOMES: increase in team productivity metrics across all departments reduction in owner time required for daily operations improvement in employee retention and satisfaction rates actions Focus: Building the internal capacity, structure, and culture needed for sustained success. Define key roles, responsibilities, desired competencies, and develop an Org Chart. Develop standardized onboarding (including Employee Agreements, Orientation Day Plans, Onboarding Milestone Tracking) and training processes. Establish clear performance expectations and a regular feedback/review cadence. Design Performance Pay and Bonus Structures aligned with goals. Identify skill gaps and create opportunities for professional development. Develop and promote Employer Branding to attract talent. Establish recruitment process including Ideal Candidate Profiles, High Conversion Job Postings, Prescreening, and Behavioral Interviewing (e.g., for Salesperson Recruitment). Why It Matters Without a capable, motivated, and well-structured team, the business cannot scale effectively, leading to bottlenecks, owner burnout, and inconsistent execution. Pro Tip: Clearly document core processes and expectations (from previous phases) so team members can operate effectively and consistently, reducing reliance on the owner. deliverables Team Capability & Structure Baseline Assessment of current roles, responsibilities, organizational structure, skills inventory, and existing HR processes. Role Descriptions & Competency Matrix Clear outlines of responsibilities, required skills, and career progression paths for key positions. Onboarding, Training & Core Process Documentation Structured program, materials, and documented workflows (incl. Pre-Built SOPs, Checklists for Every Role) for integrating, upskilling, and guiding team members. Team DevelopmenTImprovement Plan Prioritized actions for recruitment, training implementation, establishing performance review cycles, and addressing skill gaps. Resources Post-Project Email Sequence Template Automated communication series that maintains client relationships after project completion Referral Program Blueprint Proven framework for generating high-quality referrals through systematic client engagement Onboarding Plans Structured 30/60/90 day plans that accelerate new team member productivity and cultural integration Job Posting Templates Compelling position descriptions that attract ideal candidates aligned with your values and needs Interviewing Systems Behavioral interview frameworks that accurately predict candidate success in specific roles Guide to Maximizing Referrals Comprehensive playbook for transforming satisfied clients into your most effective sales force HOMEWORK Post-Project Sequence Develop an automated follow-up sequence for completed projects. Referral Program Structure Create your structured referral program including incentives and tracking mechanisms. Team Integration Process Develop a structured onboarding process for new team members that accelerates productivity and cultural alignment.


PRO-TIP: Set aside 3-4 hours per week for implementation work. Clients who commit this dedicated time see faster results than those who try to squeeze it into their schedules. This "working ON the business" time frees you from constantly working IN it.
THE FRAMEWORK™
Purpose-Built for Builders
YOUR Strategic Roadmap to Predictable Profits.
We guide builders from operational chaos to predictable profitability using our proven, structured approach
1
Assess
Diagnose Your Business.
Create Your Strategic Roadmap.
2
Install Your Foundation for Scalability (The 6-Week MAP™)
3
Sustain Momentum.
Optimize Performance
FAQ
1
1. How long does it take to see results from the GO First MAP?
Most design/build firms begin seeing measurable improvements within 3-6 months, though some strategies like referral programs and online presence optimization can generate results within weeks. Consistent implementation and diligent tracking are key accelerators to your success timeline.
2
2. What if I already have a sales process in place?
Your existing process is a valuable foundation we can build upon. We'll identify and integrate only the missing elements—whether that's formal referral tracking, a more robust CRM, or streamlined client communication workflows—to enhance your current system without disrupting what's already working.
3
3. How do I measure ROI on my marketing efforts?
Focus on tracking critical metrics including lead-to-client conversion rates, average project value, cost per acquisition, and marketing-influenced revenue. Implement attribution tracking to pinpoint which tactics deliver the highest return, allowing you to double down on your most profitable channels.
4
4. Should I invest in paid advertising before optimizing my website and Google Business Profile?
We strongly recommend optimizing your foundational assets first. A polished website, complete Google Business Profile, and strong review portfolio create the conversion infrastructure necessary for paid advertising success. Without these elements, you risk paying for traffic that fails to convert into quality leads.
5
5. Can smaller design/build firms implement this plan without a large marketing team?
Absolutely. Many of our most successful clients are small firms with limited marketing resources. Today's user-friendly tools like simple CRMs and automated email platforms require minimal technical expertise. Start by implementing one high-impact tactic at a time, building momentum as you develop systems and confidence.
6
6. How do I keep up with changing marketing trends and tech tools?
Schedule quarterly strategy reviews to evaluate your metrics against industry benchmarks. Dedicate 1-2 hours monthly to engage with curated industry resources including our newsletter, select webinars, and association updates. This focused approach ensures you adopt only relevant innovations that align with your business goals.
7
7. What's the best way to encourage my team to adopt new processes?
Successful adoption requires demonstrating clear value to your team. Communicate how new processes will eliminate frustrations, save time, and increase their earning potential. Create simple reference guides, provide hands-on training, and recognize early adopters. Consider performance incentives tied to consistent use of new systems for faster integration.
Since 2021, GO First® has helped 312+ builders leverage AI and automation to create predictable sales pipelines and escape the feast-or-famine cycle.
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