http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?fid4ct=24677 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:24:00 EST Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:23:00 EST http://backend.userland.com/rss RapidFeeds v0.1 -- http://www.rapidfeeds.com A primary factor in determining whether an outsourcing relationship succeeds or fails is the involvement of the ownership, upper management of the client and the ownership of the outsourced firm. Many owners, or upper management make the mistake of engaging a technology company, then handing off the operational aspect of that relationship to an individual that does not really have full insight into the agreement, nor do they have decision making authority within their own organization. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4738913 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4738913 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 17:23:00 EST While times have been tough for some construction firms, many have weathered the storm well and are now in prime position to take advantage of the burgeoning recovery. These companies set lofty goals like saving a client millions of dollars or accelerating a project schedule by 10 percent. They create bids so confidence-inspiring they leave competitors flat-footed. Mere pipe dreams? Not for companies that adopt building information modeling (BIM). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4738912 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4738912 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 17:22:00 EST As the year-end approaches, you get a little stressed-out over all the commitments you have. This added stress and responsibility brings out the worst in how you handle your personal life and business pressures. Plus, you know you need to make a list of resolutions to improve your life and better manage your business or career. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4738911 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4738911 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 17:21:00 EST Do you know what's in your warehouse or have a clear idea of your inventory levels? If the honest answer is no, then you're not alone. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4695012 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4695012 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:46:00 EST As sustainability standards are heightened across the country, your firm has likely already been awarded a sustainable project that incorporates a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification level requirement, or you are in the process of bidding on one. Participation in LEED projects reflects positively on your firm's commitment to supporting the environment and undoubtedly opens doors for future green construction opportunities. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4695011 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4695011 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:44:00 EST The tax code is reshaping the landscape for the construction industry. The entire built environment is embracing green initiatives, aided by significant incentives from the current (and former) administration. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4695007 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4695007 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:43:00 EST With 1.1 million lawyers licensed to practice law in the United States, how does a construction company faced with a legal problem decide which attorney is best suited to help the company resolve the problem? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4657665 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4657665 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:43:00 EST When you think of "estate planning," do morbid thoughts come to mind that you can't get past? Do you think it is only for the very wealthy? Do you think it doesn't apply to you? Are you unsure of answers to the many important decisions that go along with it? Do you know who to turn to for help? These are all reasons that keep many business owners from tackling this all-important topic. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4657664 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4657664 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:42:00 EST The design-build "boom" started about a decade ago, as public and private sector owners looked for an alternative to design-bid-build and construction management delivery approaches. While its widespread adoption was influenced by a variety of factors, almost all of design-build's benefits can be attributed to the one attribute that differentiates it from every other delivery system-it is a truly integrated project delivery system where the designer and contractor have contracts directly with each other, not separately with the owner. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4657663 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4657663 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST Personal connections with your customers can be one of the most positive ways to build business relationships and drive sales. While these connections are made throughout the year, the holiday season offers one of the best times to reach out to your customers and prospect base. Regardless of your approach, this can help bring back customers over the upcoming year and cement long-term business relationships. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4614211 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4614211 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:38:00 EST With all of the equipment, materials and craftsmanship involved, it is easy to lose sight of the fact that construction is, first and foremost, a people business. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4614209 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4614209 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:38:00 EST Businesses can feel such desperation to be "up on the web" that they rush to publish lousy websites. While I realize that successful business owners may prefer action to contemplation, it's important to sit down and think about your goals before you design and launch a website. Then, you can proceed to website construction with clear insight. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4614208 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4614208 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:37:00 EST Denial runs through many construction companies and is especially prevalent among dedicated staffers who are quick to protect their outdated accounting programs from would-be replacements. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4569640 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4569640 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:41:00 EST Q: Is there any way I can better prepare for our business year-end? As the accounting manager at a multi-state contracting company, I rarely get to enjoy the holiday season because it's tied to the frantic work of gathering tax and financial statement information, preparing payroll returns, W2s, 1099s and so on. And that's on top of my busy daily workload. I start the process earlier each year, but it just seems to take longer and longer. Help... my nickname around here is Scrooge! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4569639 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4569639 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST Calendar year 2009 was indeed an interesting year for the construction community, and there is no doubt 2010 will be challenging as well with continued aggressive competition and increasing scrutiny from the surety community. Understanding what has gotten us to this point, what is in store for the surety community in 2010, and how you may actually be able to benefit from the surety industry's upcoming difficulties will be helpful to know. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4569638 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4569638 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST Public entity work has been in the economic forefront due to the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4520288 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4520288 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:42:00 EST They say it's always greener on the other side, but Green-built and LEED-certified projects can have you seeing red if owners and contractors do not take precautions to mitigate risk. While many executives in the construction industry initially perceived green building as a fad just a few short years ago, it is undeniably here for good. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4520277 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4520277 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:38:00 EST I cut my teeth in construction as a carpenter apprentice in my teens. I then moved up the ranks as a carpenter, superintendent, project manager and a chief estimator. Then, I earned an MBA-and still stay fully connected to the industry. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4520276 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4520276 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:38:00 EST As everyone in the construction industry knows, completing a project on time and within budget is one of the toughest assignments in America. Unplanned change orders, fluctuating material costs, unpredictable weather, labor shortages and many other factors make completing a project as planned an uphill battle-and one that a growing number of contractors are losing. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4467260 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4467260 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:26:00 EST Of all the things you do to own, operate, manage and run your business, the most critical thing required to build a successful company is generating profitable revenue and sales. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4467259 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4467259 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST Think of all the decisions you made over the last five to ten years that brought you to where you are today. Now think of all the decisions you didn't make but wish you had. Remember when you were busy signing new contracts, getting plenty of business, trying to juggle all your commitments, scheduling crews, putting out fires and doing everything you could to keep everyone happy? During this time, it was hard to do everything you wanted to do. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4467258 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4467258 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST The road you take to work, the school your children attend and the police and fire stations that protect the subdivision in which you live each very likely have at least one thing in common: surety bonds. Surety bonds provide the public with the security that the contractors working on construction projects in their community will complete the work and that the local laborers and suppliers will be paid. They are mandated by law to be used on public works projects, and owners may often use surety bonds on privately-owned construction projects, too. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4332176 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4332176 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 14:32:00 EST Imagine a situation in which a piece of equipment unexpectedly breaks down, and to make it worse, imagine it happening right at the end of your most productive season. Now you're looking at a repair bill at the most inconvenient time when your cash flow is tightest. If your bank is flexible enough to help with that situation, consider yourself lucky. But when you have a revolving credit account, luck has nothing to do with it. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4332175 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4332175 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 14:32:00 EST In any economy, smart business owners look for ways to ensure that their businesses are running at peak efficiency. This has been even more evident in the past few years, as many companies have placed an increased importance on controlling costs, as well as enhancing their company's brand image. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4332174 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4332174 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 14:29:00 EST There are few services that construction companies outsource more than payroll and for a good reason: payroll is time-consuming, complex and any tax errors can be potentially costly to the business. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4303041 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4303041 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 15:01:00 EST Imagine you owned or managed the perfect construction business. What would it be like? In my perfect business, I would come into the office two or three days a week; check-in with my managers; review their projects and progress; give them some encouragement and direction; call a few loyal customers and take them to lunch; check on my real estate developments and investments; and make lots of money. Then, spend my free days golfing, sailing, traveling with my wife and all the other fun stuff I like to do! What do you think? Work a little and make a lot! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4303040 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4303040 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST Everyone who knows me knows how easily I fall in love with "the book of the moment," otherwise known as the book I am currently reading. That book just happens to be Ben Franklin, An American Life, by Walter Isaacson. It's a book I highly recommend. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4303039 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4303039 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:59:00 EST Prompt payment is important. Slow payment can strain the financial resources of a small business, undermining its ability to pay bills, payroll and other operating expenses. Few things can threaten the survival of a small contractor more than slow payment on projects. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4280026 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4280026 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:26:00 EST Too busy? Not busy enough? So many factors influence a contractors' revenue cycle. How do you maintain your sanity on this revenue rollercoaster? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4280025 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4280025 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:26:00 EST For contractors, paper blueprints have always been a staple of the construction business. Recently, a trend has emerged that would potentially replace paper blueprints with digital blueprints. The savings in reproduction and distribution costs alone would be substantial. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4280024 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4280024 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:25:00 EST Can your company afford to lose 5 percent of its revenues? Can it afford to lose $500,000? The 2006 Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) "Report to the Nation on Occupational Fraud & Abuse" reports that the average company loses 5 percent of its revenues to occupational fraud. In addition, the report reveals that construction ranks as the second highest industry in median losses per scheme, with a median loss per scheme of $500,000. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241066 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241066 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:10:00 EST Payroll check fraud is discovered at a home construction firm in a sleepy Georgia town. A solutions staffing company in North Carolina is victimized by a similar scheme. A South Carolina concrete company learns of check fraud when a bank becomes suspicious after nearly 100 men attempt to cash counterfeit checks within a concentrated period of time. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241065 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241065 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:10:00 EST The Work is Not Over Recall that in the previous article, we found that West Coast Construction (West Coast) had conducted a thorough investigation of one of its project managers because of allegations of a conflict of interest and bid rigging. Based on the evidence gathered and focused interviews conducted by West Coast during its investigation, the project manager admitted to the conflict and was terminated. However, the recovery of the losses and costs of the investigation had to be borne by West Coast. Unfortunately, the end of a successful investigation does not mean the end of the work that West Coast must perform as a result of the lapses in controls and processes that allowed this incident to occur. A company must turn attention to building a more robust system of anti-fraud programs and controls to mitigate their exposure to this type of behavior in the future and to ensure they have an adequate program in place to respond to future instances of fraud or abuse. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241064 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241064 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:09:00 EST Developing and implementing a solid end-of-day routine adds to the security provided by your existing security service, whether you use fences, guards or cameras. Remember that jobsite theft often starts with the employees of your subcontractors. If everyone knows you have a rigorous end-of-day security routine, then you're less likely to get hit. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241063 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241063 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:09:00 EST Keeping your jobsite secure starts long before you install your fence and other security measures. This checklist will help you reduce jobsite loss for your next project and give you an increased peace of mind. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241062 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241062 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:09:00 EST In this challenging economy, housing starts may be down, but the construction equipment theft business continues to boom. That's why it's more critical than ever that owners of construction equipment take extra measures to protect their substantial equipment investment from the growing problem of theft. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241061 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241061 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:08:00 EST What is the role of a private investigator in today's environment? Business due-diligence is the emerging field for private investigators. Businesses must be "in the know" about their suppliers, clients, competitors and employees. Protection from serious economic liability can be directly attributed to making informed choices. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241060 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241060 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:07:00 EST We have heard much about fraud relating to business in recent years. In the early 2000s, the news was filled with scandals involving various types of fraud. The mere mention of Enron or Worldcom is now virtually synonymous with the word "fraud." Although these scandals involved very large, publicly traded companies, fraud occurs most often in smaller businesses. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241059 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4241059 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:07:00 EST Over the past three decades, the delivery system for construction projects has undergone some fundamental changes. Many of these changes sought to relieve the owner from the costs and challenges associated with attempting to assemble two independent, and somewhat adversarial (designer and contractor), parties to cooperate in delivering a quality project. With these changes in methods, whether design build or construction management, exposures to contractors have also undergone fundamental change. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187451 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187451 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:51:00 EST What if you could post a watchman on every piece of equipment you own, wherever it goes, twenty-four hours a day? And what if you could shut down a stolen asset from 100 miles away? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187450 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187450 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:51:00 EST Money is tight for everyone. Fuel prices have finally come down, but it's still a major cost factor. Budgets are being cut. Layoffs and shut downs are becoming more common. Anything you leave out that is not secured, especially your equipment and materials, are at their highest risk ever to be stolen. If you have convinced yourself "it won't happen to me," you could be making a grave mistake. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187449 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187449 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:50:00 EST Global Positioning Systems (GPS) vehicle tracking can give small businesses the control needed to effectively manage off-site vehicle fleets. Monitoring location and speed of vehicles provides an easy way to gauge undesirable driver behavior and increase security. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187448 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187448 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:50:00 EST Ever wonder what your employee is really doing with the company truck when he returns to the office thirty minutes late and blames it on traffic? Did you hear about the employee at a major package delivery firm who was arrested last year for selling cocaine out of his company truck while on his delivery route? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187447 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187447 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:50:00 EST No matter how large or small a business, success is measured by a healthy bottom-line. Achieving profitability is no small task and many owners look for ways to do more with less to ensure a black ink year instead of red. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187446 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187446 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:49:00 EST Kevin Howe, owner of Juniper Construction, was surprised to walk onto his jobsite one morning in March 2004 to find three severed locks, two ransacked trailers and more than $8,000 in missing tools, equipment and construction materials. In addition to costing Howe thousands of dollars in stolen tools, the Juniper staff spent more than 100 hours tracking down the invoices for the stolen items and dealing with the insurance claim, an estimated productivity loss of about $3,700. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187445 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187445 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:49:00 EST What if you could post a watchman on every piece of equipment you own, wherever it goes twenty-four hours a day? You can with Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187444 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4187444 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:48:00 EST I know that a business needs a leader, but I don't know what that really means. What does a leader do and how does he act? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163880 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163880 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:59:00 EST You've told me to listen to my employees to be aware of how my business is running. Good idea, but employees are always afraid to tell the boss the bad stuff. They're not going to talk to me, are they? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163879 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163879 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:59:00 EST I leaned back in my chair. I was in the conference room with Keith McRae, the principal investigator with K.A.M. Data Services Inc., a licensed private-investigation agency. I had invited Keith to meet Hugh, my boss at Design/Build Management Inc. As the firm's business developer, I meet a lot of people. And Keith's ideas intrigued me about how a private-investigation firm can help to increase profitability in a construction company. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163867 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163867 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:58:00 EST John Smith seemed like the ideal employee. With tons of relevant experience and an easy-going personality, how could Construction Company X not hire him? Nothing about him suggested that he drank like a fish and liked to do drugs on the weekend-until his weekend activities bled over into the work week, and then there were problems. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163866 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163866 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:58:00 EST I keep hiring lousy employees. Where are all the good people? How come I can't seem to hire them? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163865 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163865 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:57:00 EST It is no secret that the battle for the shrinking pool of talent from U.S. construction schools is hotter than ever. How can contractors be seriously considered by top graduating students and meet their staffing needs in this tight employment market? One proven method is to make a serious commitment to a formal cooperative education program. Establishing a relationship with at least one college or university that offers a construction or civil engineering cooperative education program can keep you connected to the talent pipeline. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163864 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163864 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:57:00 EST A few years ago, Carmine, a small business owner, faced a common problem. Not only were the day-to-day operations of his business dependent on him, he was responsible for 60 percent of all customer billings. His staff was not effective in freeing Carmine so he could tend to crucial management issues, and his business suffered. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163863 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163863 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:57:00 EST I have an employee who does good work, but causes trouble with his anger. How do I deal with angry people? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163862 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4163862 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:56:00 EST If you are like most construction executives, you don't view yourself as a software technology expert. In fact, you probably approach new information technology (IT) projects with trepidation and hand it off to the back-office staff or third-party consultants. This is an understandable and healthy fear given that the majority of software projects fail. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4133633 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4133633 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:56:00 EST If a contractor had an arch nemesis, "Downtime" would be his name. Whether it's Mother Nature or broken down equipment keeping the guys from the job, nothing brings the ax down on productivity-and profit-faster than workers sitting around doing absolutely nothing. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4133632 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4133632 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:56:00 EST Implementing new technology and staying current with technological trends is a great way to boost productivity and profits and keep your company competitive. The trick to success, however, also involves understanding common pitfalls and potential problems so that your "perfect technology solution" does not become your greatest technology mistake. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4133630 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4133630 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:55:00 EST You may have asked yourself "Why do I need a professionally-developed bid tabulation analysis system when I can get bid tabs results for free from the DOT?" Or, said, "I already know my market and the prices that everyone is bidding." Or, stated, "Bid tabs data is history, we only look at future jobs and no two jobs are alike." These are questions or comments heard every day from owners, estimators and project managers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4133622 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4133622 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:53:00 EST The economic downturn has hit construction companies particularly hard, forcing contractors to make difficult decisions in order to cut costs. The common approach is to reduce staff and sell equipment in order to stay afloat, but this method increases overall risk. Companies could be forced to let valuable employees go and when the economy picks up again, could find those staff members working for a competitor. Recent advancements in technology have added another path-the ability to lower costs and optimize business processes by implementing a software system that doesn't require a heavy initial investment. This technology is called Software as a Service, or SaaS, and allows companies to use powerful, integrated software applications that increase productivity without the need of sophisticated hardware. Given the current economic conditions, SaaS could be the solution that allows contractors to survive the recession. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4077967 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4077967 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:34:00 EST It is very easy to spend too much time working on small problems and not enough time forecasting icebergs and scouting opportunities. In my organization, I think we sometimes spend hours debating the font size and attached clip art of a particular memo and only a few minutes discussing the content! We've even gotten bogged down on what brand of glue works best for interior miter joints. Every once in a while, it becomes necessary to close the notepad and start over with a fresh page and perspective. It's all about getting back to basics. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4077964 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4077964 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:31:00 EST Unfortunately, in today's economic climate many construction companies face diminishing revenues and uncertain future. As a result, budgets tighten and many initiatives, including those for safety, are put on hold or cut. However, it's important to realize that significant safety improvement does not require substantial investment. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4077963 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4077963 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:31:00 EST The benefits of making business processes paperless have been well documented in many industries, and the construction business is no different. Access to critical information including plans, schedules, contracts, budget spreadsheets and materials catalogs-from remote locations and despite extreme weather conditions-can help streamline operations, reduce human errors, and ultimately, improve client service. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047022 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047022 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:05:00 EST By investing in cutting edge technology, your business can gain an upper hand on industry competition. The financial commitment has its risks, but when you combine an Information Technology (IT) program with your corporate goals and strategies, the alignment can provide a critical benefit in attaining innovation, growth and success. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047018 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047018 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:05:00 EST The dot-com mania of the late 1990s taught us all a lot of hard-earned lessons regarding technology. Chief among them is that a company motivated strictly by the fear of being left behind usually will be left behind. When technological change presents itself, the company that reacts thoughtfully and creatively will have a much greater advantage over the company that frantically reacts or quickly buys into the latest fads and trends. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047016 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047016 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:04:00 EST You may have asked yourself "Why do I need a professionally-developed bid tabulation analysis system when I can get bid tabs results for free from the DOT?" Or, said, "I already know my market and the prices that everyone is bidding." Or, stated, "Bid tabs data is history, we only look at future jobs and no two jobs are alike." These are questions or comments heard every day from owners, estimators and project managers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047015 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047015 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:04:00 EST The Internet is finally coming into its own as a tool consumers and businesses use to research potential purchases, make purchase decisions, complete transactions and, for those selling products or services, reach out to new customers. Contractors and other construction businesses are no exception to this trend. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047013 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047013 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:03:00 EST In baseball, successful pitching has more to do with control and accuracy than any other skill. Successful contracting, likewise, is the result of job cost accuracy and control-including those elusive overhead costs. The key to identifying overhead costs and providing a complete picture of job profitability is the often misunderstood and sometimes complex concept known as overhead allocation. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047011 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047011 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:03:00 EST Q: We are currently in the market for new accounting software to help our company get a better handle on job costs and improve productivity. My boss is sold on one system after seeing its cool reporting features. The office staff wants a different system because of how it handles payroll and billings. Meanwhile, our IT guy doesn't recommend either system based on compatibility/technology issues. I say it's impossible to please everyone, so why bother? What's your opinion? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047009 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4047009 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:03:00 EST Over the past several years, the construction industry has been going strong with plentiful amounts of work available. But with this growth comes the routine challenges of personnel, infrastructure, cash flow, etc. While all of these challenges are items you see and face everyday, another challenge may be arising that you need to be aware of as well: The day your deferred taxes are due! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014172 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014172 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:22:00 EST I'll get right to the point on this one. E-mail newsletters are a great way to stay in touch with your audience and ensure you stay at the top of your customers' minds on a regular basis. They are easy to produce, cost-effective, and in most cases, fun to read. As long as you are giving people information they can use, you'll stay top of mind and out of the junk mail folder. That's the key. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014171 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014171 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:22:00 EST Summer is approaching and company sponsored picnics and softball games are just around the corner but so are liability issues for employers who are holding these gatherings. From impaired driving accidents to sexual harassment charges or worker's compensation claims, events involving over-the-top partying can expose employers to serious risks. Therefore, when planning your company outing this year, be sure to take precautions to minimize your risks. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014164 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014164 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:21:00 EST With the economy sputtering and access to capital shrinking, these aren't the best of times for go-go contracting firms-the ones that define themselves strictly by growth in volume. It is no coincidence that these companies also tend to be the ones that have the weakest contingency plans for dealing with economic downturns. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014163 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014163 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:23:00 EST My introduction to crisis management came the old-fashioned way---without any plan or preparation. In the early afternoon of Sunday, January 4, 1987, I received a call from a friend whose hobby was monitoring police and fire radio broadcasts. "Have you heard about the train accident?" he asked. Thus began my baptism-by-fire entry into the world of crisis management. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014162 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4014162 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:24:00 EST On-the-job training (OJT) has many merits. It is the most effective means of learning a trade and making the transition from apprentice to journeyman. But OJT should not be the only means of training for management teams. On the contrary, OJT alone can often reinforce poor habits that have developed over time in project leads and organizations. Too often as business leaders, we assume that our project leads have, or have "picked up" acceptable management traits by watching and observing the successes and failures of others. This may be true in some cases, but it does not discount the need for clear-cut and well-communicated processes along with management training. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980323 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980323 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:55:00 EST Selling your business right means more than having a good business to sell. You will want to use the methods that best suit your primary objectives. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980320 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980320 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:54:00 EST For a growing number of employers, health care costs continue to rise while options for providing coverage continue to dwindle. Nowhere is that truer than in the construction industry, where the cost of health care plans has grown so high that only about half of today's companies provide any type of companywide coverage. At those companies that don't offer some type of coverage, their ability to compete is diminishing. The best workers increasingly are moving to those companies that do offer some type of health care. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980313 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980313 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:54:00 EST We've all heard these seemingly simple concepts before: return phone calls promptly; execute bids quickly and methodically; keep open lines of communication amongst clients, suppliers and subs; maintain low overhead costs; don't get caught up in debt that doesn't return more money than it costs; develop staff; don't allow the project to manage us rather than us managing the project; track costs and leads like a bloodhound; develop quality control processes. We've been taught these axioms before-yet now we are wondering why we didn't pay attention. Why do we forget fundamentals in a boom time and beg for them in a tough market? Successful businesses are built squarely on proper fundamentals. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980311 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980311 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:54:00 EST Suppose, your controller is one of your key employees-he's not only indispensible, but he's also hardworking, loyal and can be trusted to take care of the company finances. But one thing you don't know is that his personal finances are in deep trouble, and he's using your company's money to keep creditors at bay. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980309 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980309 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:53:00 EST The investment made in software can work wonders in terms of helping deliver projects on time and on budget. Unfortunately, a significant percent of systems purchased are never fully implemented or do not deliver the utility the user hoped for. Here are the five most common mistakes made when selecting software: http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980308 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980308 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:52:00 EST Although many closely held construction companies are successful, they could become even more successful if they would step outside the comfortable confines of the family circle and seek advice from outsiders. In many family-owned businesses, relatives hold primary decision-making positions. In fact, it's not uncommon for family members to hold all senior management positions on the board of directors. Unfortunately, such loyalty can often prevent higher profits. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980307 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3980307 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:51:00 EST Now more than ever, construction contractors face complex tax issues that strain resources and drain what may be already-shrinking profits. Especially during a recessionary period, contractors need to minimize spending though effectively managing their tax burden and protecting themselves against tax increases and assessments. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3949849 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3949849 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST When business slows down the instinctive reaction of many business owners is to cut cost. This is a great way to help pay the bills and sail in slower times. However, the biggest mistake is to cut advertising. The best approach is to lower and not add fixed expenses. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3949847 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3949847 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:57:00 EST When a bond claimant files suit against a contractor and its surety, the surety's primary concern is that its interests are properly represented in court throughout the course of the litigation. Because the surety's liability may be coextensive with that of its principal, the surety must decide at the outset whether to retain counsel to represent the surety and the principal, allow the principal to represent itself or tender the surety's defense to the principal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3949846 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3949846 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:56:00 EST According to a quarterly market forecast by FMI Research Services Group, a management consult to construction business owners, the projects for those in the industry can be grouped into three categories: good, bad and ugly. FMI's recently released Fourth Quarter 2008 Report on the outlook of the construction isn't particularly rosy. However, with some careful positioning and gentle yet ongoing reminders of the benefits you provide your customers-especially those that the competition may not be able to provide-the outlook doesn't have to be all that bad. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3903886 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3903886 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 20:32:00 EST As media reports of declining construction spending have rolled in month after month, one bright spot has remained in spite of the slowing market: federal construction projects. Federal spending on construction in recent months has actually run contrary to private sector figures. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3903885 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3903885 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 20:31:00 EST It seems like just yesterday that business was booming. The phone rang off the hook, and scheduling was three months out. In the good old days, companies had to worry about having enough employees to satisfy the customers. (Now, having enough customers to support the employees is the challenge.) In the busy years, finding and keeping employees was hard, so employers developed incentives to keep employees content. Companies offered bonus programs, extensive benefits and allowed employees to conduct their own business on the side at times. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3903884 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3903884 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 20:31:00 EST Today the playing field is practically level between businesses of all sizes when it comes to technology systems. Most of same technologies that billion dollar contractors rely on are available at very reasonable costs to contractors of any size. Harnessing this power starts with a basic understanding of all the components of your technology system and learning how to work with your IT Manager or outside IT Consultant to create a solid technology plan. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3879372 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3879372 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:25:00 EST When the game is on the line, not many coaches would send an inexperienced rookie to the plate. Similarly, project owners today are managing their risks by requiring that contractors obtain bonding. As it turns out, bonding can be good for contractors, too. Not only does a surety bond confirm the contractor's financial credibility, it may also provide construction owners with a competitive edge when bidding for new jobs. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3879371 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3879371 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:24:00 EST In soft construction markets, it may be difficult to conduct business as usual. The stresses of not knowing when work will resume, uncertainty about finances and headcount, plus the everyday challenges of operations can have a depressing effect on morale if some key metrics are not in place. Key employees may wonder if it's time to look elsewhere. At a time when fringe benefits may be scaled back, contractors need to consider prudent ways to retain and motivate their employees. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3879370 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3879370 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:23:00 EST Dear Jayme: I hear about bid/hit ratios but don't really understand them. Are they important? What should mine be? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3852564 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3852564 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:17:00 EST Proper planning will prevent many problems that can haunt a project all the way to completion. Of course, this is the plan for almost all projects, but circumstances occur that cause some projects to go astray which make cost overruns inevitable. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3852563 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3852563 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:16:00 EST The current economic conditions have taken a toll on all small businesses. With sales down and unemployment up, most small business owners are taking some time to reevaluate their current business strategies and develop new ways to grow their business while saving money. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3852562 Construction Business Owner News http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=3852562 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:08:00 EST