# Job Profitability & Project Systems
Winning the job is step one. **Keeping the profit you bid** is the real game — and that takes systems on every project.
## Protect the margin you bid
- **Buy out the job carefully** — lock in subs/suppliers to the estimate; watch for scope gaps.
- **Track estimate vs. actual** in real time (job costing) so you catch overruns early, not at closeout.
- **Manage change orders** — get them approved and priced *before* doing the work. Unpaid extras eat your profit.
## Project systems that save money
- A consistent **kickoff** (budget, schedule, responsibilities).
- **Schedule** management and short-interval planning.
- **Documentation** — RFIs, submittals, daily reports, photos (your protection in disputes).
- A disciplined **closeout** (punch, retainage, lien waivers, warranty).
## The number that matters
**Profit fade** — when the profit you finish with is less than the profit you bid — usually comes from weak field systems and unmanaged changes. Tighten those and the margin sticks.
**Takeaway:** You don't just bid profit — you *manage* it onto the bottom line.
> *Educational content — not legal, financial, or accounting advice. Run your numbers with your CPA.*
