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HEADLINES ADDED: November 29, 2007
Effect of Inaccuracies in the Lien
... Read More
Knocking Down the Silos
A recent article by Eric Anderson and Mark Wagner discusses the success that can be achieved when the silos of Architects, Engineers and Contractors are removed through the use of the integrated practice process. As someone who comes from manufacturing and has seen firsthand the benefits of the Design for Manufacture I say here, here! When I joined the workforce in the mid eighties as a newly trained engineer, pumped up with information on the latest cutting edge practices and technologies, DFM was a new concept that I embraced... Read More
LePatner’s Book Hit’s the Nail on the Head
As an attorney with 30 years experience, Barry LePatner has had a front row seat in observing the inefficiencies of the construction industry. In his new book, LePatner shares his observations and makes some recommendations on how the industry might improve. LePatner discusses his book here. Based on the interviews I’ve read and heard I can see that LePatner shares many of our beliefs. We at CDS, have considered many of the issues that LePatner raises when creating our business model. Though his solutions are legal in nature (switching... Read More
Diversify for stability
How has your year been? Pretty good, Id guess unless your market focus is new residential construction. A recent report by Associated Builders and Contractors finds that in the 12 months from September 2006 to September 2007 nonresidential construction spending grew almost 17% while residential construction spending declined almost the same amount, just over 16%. So contractors invested primarily in that market have felt the seat belt tighten and heard the tires screech as residential new construction slammed on its brakes, and those contractors probably are trying to decide... Read More
Do you work on vacation?
The holiday season is upon us. For some of us it means days off here and thereto visit friends and family, catch up on last-minute holiday shopping, or get some prep work done for a huge culinary undertaking. When you’re off the job for holidays or vacations, are you like one-third of the working population who stillstaysconnected with the office via phone or email even though their cubicle is bare? Or have you ever sacrificed your precious time off to come into the office because someone needs you? More... Read More
New Blood at NPE West
Just like its sister show, National Pavement Expo West has grown steadily over the years and is increasingly recognized as the best way for exhibitors to reach contractors on the West Coast. How do we know? Because the exhibit floor continues to grow and because new exhibitors continue to seek out the event. In fact, NPE West 2007 boasted the greatest number of new exhibitors " 21 " in its history, and contractor attendance again topped 1100, with roughly 20% (based on informal hands-raised counts in seminars) being newcomers... Read More
Electronic Subcontracting Reporting System (eSARS)
As part of the President's Management Agenda for Electronic Government, the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Integrated Acquisition Environment (IAE), and a number of Agency partners collaborated to develop the next generation of tools to collect subcontracting accomplishments. This government-wide tool is known as the eSRS. This Internet-based tool will streamline the process of reporting on subcontracting plans and provide agencies with access to analytical data on subcontracting performance. Specifically, the eSRS eliminates the need for paper submissions and processing of the SF 294's, Individual Subcontracting Reports, and SF... Read More
Termination for Default Sustained in Barracks Renovation Case
In a recent decision issued on July 6, 2007, Appeals of FFR-Bauelemente + Bausanierung GmbH, ASBCA Nos. 52152, 54563, 54808, 54809, 55017, the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals held that the government had shown that the Contracting Officer was “justifiably insecure about the contract’s timely completion” and that a termination for default was justified. The CO and COR (Contracting Officer’s Representative) believed, based on experience with other Corps of Engineers barracks renovations, that nine months was needed for a contractor to perform the barracks renovation work. After 113 days... Read More
The Difficulty a Protester Faces When Attempting to Overcome the GAO's Deference to Agency Discretion
The Government Accountability Office (“GAO”) posted five protest decisions today and, not surprisingly, each protest was denied. One of those decisions, Metson Marine Services, Inc., B-299705, involved Metson’s protest of the award of a contract to Seaward Services, Inc. under a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued by the Department of the Navy, Military Sealift Command (MSC) to obtain port operation and vessel management services for the Athena high speed research vessel system. Metson protested that the agency unreasonably concluded that its proposal was technically unacceptable, failed to conduct meaningful discussions... Read More
Succeeding with Lean Thinking Requires Changing Our Stories
rly 20 years ago Robert Reich made a big claim: Americans can't change who they are until they change the story of who they've been. His book, Tales of a New America detailed classical American stories: the rot at the top; the mob at the gate; the rise of the individual… e class="pullquote">It's only in changing the story that we can be someone different. I've come to believe it's our stories that anchor us — that keep us from achieving what we say we want. Norman calls it resistance.... Read More
Developer's Challenge to Construction: Innovate for Destiny
In Syracuse, N.Y., a developer with big ideas and pockets deep enough to pay for them is challenging his contractors to leap for a green, sustainable future.... Read More
Modern, Green and Affordable – Who Says You Can’t Have It All?
The goal of this project is to demonstrate that a modern, green home can be built this inexpensively without sacrificing design or comfort.... Read More
Strategic Messaging for Direct Marketing Materials
It's amazing to see how much emphasis executives place on the advertising materials and how little on the messages that go in them.... Read More
IRS Updates Standard Mileage Rates
Effective Jan. 1, 2008, the standard mileage rates for businesses is 50.5 cents per mile. For charitable contributions it is 14 cents per mile, and for medical and moving it is 19 cents per mile.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 28, 2007
Federal Appeals Court Upholds Ruling that Contractor was Entitled to Damages Resulting from Defective Specifications and Differing Site Conditions
In a case captioned as Ace Constructors, Inc. v. United States concerning a contract with the Corps of Engineers for the construction of a structure at Biggs Army Airfield, the Federal Circuit upheld a Court of Federal Claims ruling awarding an equitable adjustment to ACE Constructors (“ACE”) and the return of liquidated delay damages. The Court had ruled that, due to unforeseen conditions and defective specifications that were incorporated into the contract, ACE was entitled to additional relief beyond that which was provided by the contracting officer. In particular,... Read More
Norman Bodek Invents Ninth Waste
lass="pull_ad">People can't seem to leave Ohno's Seven Wastes alone. Norman Bodek, godfather of lean, made the latest addition. He calls it "Saying No." Norman chose to share this in an article for Industry Week in The Ninth Waste — Saying, "No". Norman is in his best story-telling form. quote class="pullquote">Mystery solved: the godfather of lean gave us the eighth waste. Norman claims that managers are generally resistant to change. That it is in their resisting change that they say, "No," to suggestions for improvement from employees. It may only... Read More
Contractors: No Job Too Small?
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It is Dangerous to Take Shortcuts When Preparing Your Proposal
A recent GAO decision highlights the need for offerors to fully understand a Request for Proposals (RFP) and to pay close attention to the details when preparing a proposal in response to an RFP. In C. Martin Company, Inc., the agency rejected the protestor’s proposal, determining that it was technically unacceptable. The agency discovered that the offeror had referenced outdated regulations, standards, and procedures. Some of the references were to processes and standards that had been obsolete for at least three years. It became evident that the offeror had incorporated parts... Read More
Contractors: Know Your Customer
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Solar Energy Pocket Reference
By Christopher L. Martin. ISES Intl Solar Energy Society. Price: $29. Publish Date: 06/2005... Read More
Facilities Cost Data 2008
By Means. Means, R. S.. Price: $357.95. Publish Date: 11/2007... Read More
OSHA Issues Construction Confined Spaces Rule
Four classifications of spaces are proposed; comments due by Jan. 28, 2008.... Read More
U.S. Contractor Spending Slows
Contractors are freezing capital equipment spending amid a stagnating housing market, credit crunch and uncertainty over where the economy is headed.... Read More
After Six Corrections, Centex's CEO Knows the Ropes
"At Centex, we are used to taking advantages of these cycles .... Read More
Legal Q&A: The pitfalls of sectional completion under JCT
What is sectional completion and what issues does it raise?... Read More
Case law analysis: Challenges to arbitrators' awards
If a party does not like or agree with an award, can it go to court to have it set aside?... Read More
Court Overrules a Federal Agency Override of an Automatic Stay in a Bid Protest Case
Under the federal Competition in Contracting Act, an automatic stay of a federal procurement goes into effect if an unsuccessful bidder files a bid protest with the GAO either within ten days after a contract award is made or within five days of an agency debriefing to the bidder, whichever is later. During the stay, “the contracting officer may not authorize performance of the contract to begin while the protest is pending.” Nonetheless, the agency may override the automatic stay under certain conditions: The head of the procuring activity... Read More
Contractors - Do You Offer Discounts?
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National Painting Cost Estimator 2008 Book CD
By Craftsman. Craftsman Book Company. Price: $58. Publish Date: 11/2007... Read More
National Home Improvement Estimator 2008 Book CD
By Craftsman. Craftsman Book Company. Price: $58.75. Publish Date: 11/2007... Read More
National Framing and Finish Carpentry Estimator 2008 Book CD
By Craftsman. Craftsman Book Company. Price: $57.25. Publish Date: 11/2007... Read More
National Electrical Estimator 2008 Book CD
By Craftsman. Craftsman Book Company. Price: $57.75. Publish Date: 11/2007... Read More
National Construction Estimator 2008 Book CD
By Craftsman. Craftsman Book Company. Price: $57.5. Publish Date: 11/2007... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 27, 2007
Bluebook Cost Guide 2007: Residential and Light Commercial for Cleaning, Reconstruction and Repairs
By BlueBook. Builders Book. Price: $42.95. Publish Date: 01/2007... Read More
C12 Earthwork and Paving Book - CD Rom
By QuickPass. Builders Book. Price: $99.95... Read More
National Plumbing and HVAC Estimator 2008 Book CD
By Craftsman. Craftsman Book Company. Price: $58.25. Publish Date: 11/2007... Read More
National Concrete and Masonry Estimator 2008 Book CD
By Craftsman. Craftsman Book Company. Price: $59. Publish Date: 11/2007... Read More
Sales Advice - Be Part of the Solution
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The Need for More Competition in the IDIQ Process
“Competition is the cornerstone of our acquisition system.” This opening statement, from the Administrator of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in his May 31, 2007 policy directive, Enhancing Competition in Federal Acquisition, formed the basis for requesting that all government agencies take advantage of full and open competition, particularly on task orders issued under IDIQ contracts. OMB noted that “the lack of meaningful competition” for task orders has increased as government agencies have awarded more IDIQ contracts with a corresponding rise in task and delivery orders.OMB’s directive also expressed... Read More
Equal Access to Justice Act Attorney's Fees Denied to a Prevailing Party
The Equal Access to Justice Act (“EAJA”) allows the recovery of attorney’s and expert witness fees provided that the applicant submits a timely application “which shows that the party is a prevailing party and is eligible to receive an award under this section. . . .” The applicant “shall also allege that the position of the agency was not substantially justified.” 5 U.S.C. 504(a)(2). In a recently decided case by the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals, Environmental Safety Consultants, Inc., ASBCA Nos. 47498 and 53485, the United States... Read More
Sutter Contract Is 'Lean' Enabler
Jessica Kelley, project manager for Southland Industries, says Sutter Health's relational contract encourages team members to build mutual trust quickly because of its shared risks and rewards.... Read More
JI for Developing the Five Why Habit
lass="pull_ad">I spent the last week in Bellingham, WA in a training program. I am now a TWI Institute Qualified Trainer for the Job Instruction (JI) program. This is the same program Toyota uses to teach their team leaders and supervisors how to train their staff. I am quite pleased with the training. The TWI Institute is doing a good job replicating the TWI Service's training program. We used the same basic materials, although the guide was well-annotated and included very useful references for trainers. ht be wondering, "Why did... Read More
Tell New Stories to Make the Lean Change
t must we do to open our organizations to change? Whether it's pursuing lean or any other transformational change it's only when we break with history that we have a chance for change. One necessary way we do that by changing the stories we tell. e class="pullquote">Few business leaders appreciate the power of stories to connect with their audiences. Business Week just reported on leadership…the kind of leadership that alters forever who we are and where we are going…The Seven Secrets of Inspiring Leaders, by Carmine Gallo. He says... Read More
Personality, business and opportunity
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The Opposable Mind
I've been reading the Opposable Mind by Roger Martin. We humans have long been distinguished from other animals by our opposable thumbs... Likewise, our opposable mind enables us to consider two separate ideas simultaneously. We can use the tension between and elements of these two ideas to create new possibilities. A process which Roger labels integrative thinking.... Read More
Pipeline = Lifeline
Why does such a critical business tool get so little TLC at some companies?... Read More
Corps of Engineers Conduct Found to be an "End Run" to a Judicial Order and Injunction on MATOC Solicitation
The Corps of Engineers responded to the recent Order of the United States Court of Federal Claims dated November 1, 2007, granting a permanent injunction against the issuance of a MATOC solicitation for dredging, by taking four proposed task orders included in the MATOC solicitation and reissuing them as separate negotiated procurements. (See the article posted on November 5, 2007). The Plaintiff, Weeks Marine, Inc., filed a motion asking the Court to find that the Corps of Engineers had violated the November 1 Order. Weeks argued that the injunction... Read More
OSHA: Rule Requires Employers To Pay All Protective-Gear Costs
Employers will be required to pay for virtually all personal protective equipment currently mandated by Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards under a final rule the agency published on Nov. 15.... Read More
Last chance to comment on new green guidelines
The American Society of Interior Designers and the U.S. Green Building Council have released a draft version of their guidelines for green remodeling. To view and comment on the guidelines, visit www.regreenprogr …... Read More
Why Are Associations Fighting State Licensing?
Why is there so much opposition from organizations like BICSI, CEA, CEDIA, NSCA, and others in regards to state licensing for Electronic System Technicians (i.e. Low Voltage Installers)? ... Read More
ConstructionSkills calls for greater funding flexibility
ConstructionSkills has told a government inquiry into the construction sector that it would like more power to channel funding to specialist training and adult training in construction.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 26, 2007
Contractors - Investigate your Competition
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Contractor Accounting 101
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Deal Reached on $21 Billion Water Resources Bill
Engineering New Record reports that House and Senate conferees have reached a deal on a long–delayed bill that would authorize about $21 billion for hundreds of Army Corps of Engineers water projects and require more review by outside experts of work the Corps plans to do. Funding would provide for projects to restore the Louisiana coast and Florida's Everglades, upgrade navigation on the upper Mississippi River and improve flood control efforts nationally. Key lawmakers announced July 27 they had reached an agreement on major elements of a new Water... Read More
New Rule Allows Subcontracts to Companies Owned by American Indian Tribes to Count Toward Small Business Subcontracting Goals
A new federal rule allows federal contractors to count subcontracts given to companies owned by American Indian tribes and Alaskan communities toward small business contracting goals. The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council have agreed on a final rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 702 of the Emergency Supplemental Act, 2002, as amended by section 3003 of the 2002 Supplemental Appropriations Act for Further Recovery From and Response to Terrorist Attacks on the United States. The law permits subcontracts awarded to... Read More
GSA Streamlines Local Small Business Contracting on the Gulf Coast
As recently reported by Elise Castelli in the Federal Times, "The long slog to rebuild the Gulf Coast devastated by Hurricane Katrina might be gaining some speed." A new order signed by GSA Administrator Lurita Doan will make it simpler and faster for the U.S. General Services Administration to award millions of dollars in recovery contracts to local small business in the Gulf Region supporting Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts. Contracts for debris clearance, supply distribution, reconstruction and other disaster relief will be set aside for local businesses under the order. "The... Read More
What the Top 25% of Construction Foreman Do
The field is where a contractor makes or loses money. The cost of the project is mostly at the site. Making those costs result in a finished installation within the budget is the basic task of the construction foreman. Learn from our data and our experience what the top foreman consistently do and how they do it. For the rest of the article, email us at mstevens@stevensci.com. with the title of the article. Limit 1 article per month... Read More
Firing a Client
It is a tough emotional day when you have to fire a client. When we started in this business, we had one or no customers. It was scary. I can remember waking up in the middle of the night and asking myself why I ever left my regular job to go out on my own. No clients means no income. A truly humbling but, electric experience. Small victories mean more when you have little. So, we all remember that time. As we mature as business owners, we soon discover... Read More
Why Don’t We Make the Lean Change?
lass="pull_ad">Norman Bodek is concerned that companies are not taking up a lean way of working. This is in the face of overwhelming evidence that a lean approach is one of the best ways of working. What gets in the way? Norman attributes it to middle managers who resist change. He says the resistance is manifest in saying, "No," to employees' proposals of improvement. I don't buy it. is right when he says the people get in the way of change. It is not organizations that resist change. Only individuals... Read More
Surprise! It’s a Lean Herrero at the 9th Lean Construction Congress
s that time of year again. I'm attending the Lean Construction Congress in San Francisco. This is the 9th annual event. As usual, the focus is on companies who have adopted lean approaches for delivering AEC projects. The morning presentations have been great. Company presenters are doing a fine job speaking about the benefits they are getting and how the lean approaches and principles cause that to happen. e class="pullquote">Becoming lean and being evermore lean is fundamentally about learning, not about lean. It's a little early in the two... Read More
Tax and Legal Ramifications of Selling Your Business
Inevitably, A Taxing Time... Read More
Hot Jobs with potential - Construction Project Manager
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What is Your Closing Ratio?
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Housing Crisis Pulls Overall Construction 11% Below 2006
The recession in the housing market has pulled the dollar value of new construction starts through the first nine months of this year 11% below 2006’s level, according to McGraw-Hill Construction’s latest data.... Read More
Feds Agree To Fund $1.3 Billion For New New York City Subway
The New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority's $4.9-billion first phase of the planned Second Avenue Subway has received a Full Funding Grant Agreement from the Federal Transit Authority for $1.3 billion.... Read More
Wireless Technology On The Construction Site
To be productive in today's construction industry, builders and contractors must find easier more efficient means with which to coordinate material shipments, manage their subs, meet tight deadlines, AND try and make a profit. Being organized and staying connected through wireless technology isn't just a luxury for big builders anymore.... Read More
ICUEE Showcases New Innovations
More than 845 exhibitors showcased hundreds of new innovations at the 2007 International Construction & Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE) in Louisville, Ky. ICUEE, also known as The Demo Expo, was held Oct. 16–18 at the Kentucky Exposition Center, and featured more than 1.155 million net square feet of exhibits of the latest equipment, technologies and products for the utility and ...... Read More
ACP/Reed To Sponsor AEM's Construction Challenge
RMC's Parent To Sponsor AEM's Construction Challenge Norcross, Ga. — Rocky Mountain Construction's parent company, ACP/Reed Construction Data, has announced its sponsorship of the Construction Challenge. The Construction Challenge is an event developed by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) in partnership with Destination ImagiNation Inc.... Read More
Granite Buys Wilder Construction
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John Murphy: Flexible Airport Designs
John Murphy, a principal with Corgan Associates, Inc., talks about trends in airport design.... Read More
Electrical Cost Data 2008, 31st Annual Edition
By Means. Means, R. S.. Price: $149.95. Publish Date: 10/2007... Read More
Plumbing Cost Data 2008, 31st Annual Edition
By Means. Means, R. S.. Price: $149.95. Publish Date: 10/2007... Read More
Repair and Remodeling Cost Data 2008, 29th Annual Edition
By Means. Means, R. S.. Price: $128.95. Publish Date: 10/2007... Read More
Contractor's Pricing Guide: Residential Square Foot Costs 2008
By Means. Means, R. S.. Price: $39.95. Publish Date: 10/2007... Read More
Square Foot Costs 2008, 29th Annual Edition
By Means. Means, R. S.. Price: $163.95. Publish Date: 10/2007... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 25, 2007
House Approves Final Transportation Bill
The House approves a final transportation bill that boosts highway spending to record levels by a wide margin.... Read More
Lean Gurus See Big Gains in Use of Lean Project Delivery
Gregory A. Howell, co-founder with Glenn Ballard of the Lean Construction Institute, is part philosopher and part skeptic.... Read More
Sutter Health Unlocks the Door to A New Process
"I've been waiting for 27 years to do a job like this....No more finger-pointing....It's about trusting your partners or it doesn't work....We all sink or swim together....Nobody cuts corners....We are 'incentivized' to help each other.... There is no 'we' or 'they'....It’s one team....Our goals are Did the professionals making these comments drink construction’s magic elixir? Close to it, say NBBJ’s Jay Halleran and David Swain.and contractor."... Read More
Freddie Mac Reports a Staggering $2 Billion 3Q Loss
The mortgage mess just got murkier.... Read More
Severin Watch
This procedurally tangled case between Fluor and the structural steel subcontractor Walter on the DOC project in Aberdeen will be of virtually no interest to anyone but the parties themselves, except for the following two kernels: The Court of Appeals recognizes -- and presumably adopts in Washington -- the federal Severin doctrine (a GC who has been fully released of liability from its sub cannot pass-through the sub's claim to the owner); and The Court also applies the old Balfour case (OK, maybe not that old -- decided in 1980) in which... Read More
Newest Kaizen Book — by Shigeo Shingo
lass="pull_ad">This is not a book review. That will come later. I'm only sharing the news that there is a new Shigeo Shingo book: kaizen and the Art of Creative Thinking. Norman Bodek gave me the chance to review an early version of the book. I'm quite impressed. I've wondered for quite some time if there is a systematic behind Toyota's success other than PDCA. We now all know the answer. Shingo developed an approach that helps everyone to be more creative. And that approach is readily learned. p>(...)Continue reading... Read More
Hot Jobs with potential - Construction Safety Director
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2007-2008 ACEC Design & Construction Industry Trends Survey
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Interesting Info on Starting Salaries in South Florida
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Marketing and remodeling contractors
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Ownership and employees
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Cutting The Fat - Slow Down Survival Tips
Action is the key to success. Here are just a few tips on leaning out during a slow down. This is a first of an upcoming series on surviving the market slow down. Look around your company for those employees that just don’t shine quite as brightly as others. OK, now trim the fat. It’s that easy. Use this time to get rid of non performers. Think very carefully before cutting key employees. Replacement many of the costs for replacement are hidden. Long term employees know and understand your... Read More
Military vs. MBA
"We find that military people really understand managing multiple priorities, and overall customer satisfaction. They have a real go-get-it attitude. They are self-starters who won't leave until the job is done right."... Read More
Go, green, go!!
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Electrical Ignorance Plays Havoc at Holiday Time
The Electrical Safety Foundation International is trying to educate Americans about basics of their electrical systems, smoke detectors, and GFCIs.... Read More
Rexel and Hagemeyer Finalize $4.5 Billion Purchase
When the deal is completed, Hagemeyer will be broken up, with its U.S. and Asia-Pacific operations sold to Sonepar, another Paris-based electrical distributor that sought to buy Hagemeyer.... Read More
AACE offers a new online course: Estimating & Bidding 2
January 24, 2004 is the start date for the newest course available from AACE International. Estimating and Bidding 2 is a paced, 10 week long onlin...... Read More
Recommended Practice rough draft is online
The results of our first Recommended Practice Workshop, on Estimation Review and conducted by Jennifer Bates, are now online. Our next workshop on Plannin...... Read More
December Social
The December Social was a great success! All who attended responded that they had a good time, the food was great, and there were plenty of diversions (pool ta...... Read More
ETS hosts certification course and exam
The East Tennessee Section is hosting a certification preparation course and a certification exam. The certification preparation course (Additional informatio...... Read More
Median Home Price Continues to Fall
According to a report released this week by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median single-family house price in the United States fell to $220,800, which is down two percent from a year ago, despite prices increasing in 93 out of 150 metropolitan areas from a year earlier.... Read More
Heathrow expansion plans revealed
Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly has launched a consultation process for a proposed third runway and a sixth terminal at Heathrow airport.... Read More
Climate change bill published
The government has finally published it’s ground-breaking climate change bill, starting a parliamentary process that could lead to a legal limit on emissions within six months.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 21, 2007
Contractor Accounting: Cash Accounting vs Accrual
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Contractor Accounting: Types of Accounts
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Missing Information in Electronic Database Not Fatal To Offeror
As Federal government contractors know all too well, Federal procurement has entered the electronic age in a big way. Not only are solicitations advertised solely through the internet at http://www.fedbizopps.gov, prospective contractors must be registered with another website, FedTeDS, www.fedteds.gov, in order to access plans, specifications and amendments electronically. Prospective contractors must also be registered with the Central Contractor Registration site, www.ccr.gov, to be eligible to access FedTeDS. The Federal Acquisition Regulation, at FAR 4.1201, now provides that "Prospective contractors shall complete electronic annual representations and certifications at http://orca.bpn.gov. Instead of... Read More
Tough CEOs Often Most Successful, a Study Finds
19 NOV 2007 from the Wall Street Journal | Read the full story» What are the traits that chief executives of successful companies share? A new study suggests that hard-nosed personal virtues such as persistence and efficiency count for more than "softer" strengths like teamwork or flexibility. (Subscription required)... Read More
Scrambling to Find a Successor
BusinessWeek columnists Jack & Suzy Welch answer the question: If good succession planning makes so much sense, why isn’t it more common?... Read More
What I Want
We asked a dozen business leaders what they're lusting after this year. The results might surprise you.... Read More
If You Verify, They Will Buy: Refining Green Home Standards
The National Association of Homebuilders is running a trial of a new, verifiable, green residential construction certification program built around the association's Green Building Guidelines.... Read More
Plan For the Future When Business is Down
The time to lay plans for expanding business is not when business is flourishing. ... Read More
Tip 97 – Be Grateful
I do try to consciously practice gratitude every day, but certainly Thanksgiving is a reminder to us all. I recall driving up to Santa Barbara to meet some friends for the holiday one year and just scrolling through my cell phone and dialing people to say how grateful I was at that very moment for their presence in my life. How truly blessed I am, for so many different reasons, for the moments these people, like my writing partner Tahl Raz, walked into my life. The more people I... Read More
New Book, The New Business Model of Construction Contracting (2008)
View image... Read More
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2008 boot camp flyer.pdf... Read More
References of Our Annual Boot Camp
Matt, I wanted to write to express my appreciation for the Business Management Boot Camp seminar you put on through the Southeastern Pennsylvania Associated Builders and Contractors from 4-23-07 through 4-27-07 My personal experience in our industry has been one of coming up through the ranks of a carpentry company, from Apprentice, to Carpenter, to Superintendent and now into management. This is not an uncommon path for many managers in the construction business; however the shift in paradigms from the field to a management position was a struggle for... Read More
Housing Permits Sink to 14-Year Low
Housing permits reached a new 14-year low in October as housing starts, enhanced by a surge in multi-family unit construction, made a modest jump according to a joint report from the Commerce Department and the U.... Read More
PFI bid process needs shortening
Bidding for privately financed projects is taking too long and costing too much under the new Competitive Dialogue (CD) procurement procedure, according...... Read More
Carillion boss calls for more apprentices
A Carillion director is urging other contractors to follow his company's lead and train more apprentices. Robin Herzberg, managing director of Carillion...... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 20, 2007
Contractor Accounting: The Accounting Equation
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GAO Deference to Agency Discretion in Accepting a "Short Statement" instead of a "Security Awareness Plan" is Questionable
In a decision issued on April 20, 2007, but published today because of a protective order, the GAO denied a protest by Olympus Building Services, Inc., B-296741.14; B-296741.15 against the award of a contract to Rowe Contracting Services, Inc., issued by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) for janitorial services at the DIA Analysis Center. Olympus challenged the proposal evaluation and best value determination. Among other things, Olympus asserted that Rowe’s proposal should not have been rated excellent under the technical factors because it did not include a required security awareness... Read More
The Organizations That Continue To Win The “War For Talent” Will Be Based On Many Factors…
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Marketing vs sales
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Gifts? (2)
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Personal Assistants on Call, Just Not in the Next Office
Entrepreneurs in India are trying to build a new market for the offshore services they offer: helping small businesses cope with even the most mundane day-to-day tasks. (Subscription required)... Read More
Leadership: Watch for Reactions
Carl Bass of AutoDesk was recently quoted in the Wall Street Journal as saying that when he became CEO, "My IQ jumped 10 points and I became much funnier." What Bass discovered is that proximity to power can have unintended effects on people.... Read More
Fast-Track Strategies For Rising to the Top
Employees at the bottom of the corporate totem pole can jump-start their careers by setting goals, showing up ready to learn and demonstrating maturity.... Read More
Simple Secrets to Search Marketing
Many businesses lack the time, the budget or the knowledge to tackle the issue of search marketing. Here are five easy steps to get you started.... Read More
Realists vs. Idealists: Thoughts about Creativity and Innovation
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More Than 900 New Projects Are in Play
With the Senate's vote on Nov. 8 to override President Bush's veto, the first Water Resources Development Act since 2000 became law.... Read More
Building Energy Retrofits, 'Eco-Calculators' Sprouting
Former President William J. Clinton is teaming up with green enthusiasts in public and private sectors to push energy retrofits for existing buildings.... Read More
Construction Faces Labor Shortage
Michigan, like the rest of the United States, will be facing a labor shortage in the construction industry with the retirement of baby boomers. The average age for an apprentice in the skilled trades is 27. That's already an eyebrow raiser, Brindley Byrd, C.A.P.S., C.G.R., executive director of the Capital Area Construction Council (CACC), said.... Read More
Wireless Solves Contractor's Communications Needs
With several high-profile construction projects under way at any given time, the 500-plus employees of Birmingham, Ala.-based Saiia Construction have little time to worry about dropped phone calls, bad reception or busy networks when making deadline-driven decisions in the field. The company generates approximately $100 million in revenue annually, and good communication is central to Saiia Con...... Read More
Reed Construction Data's BIM Partnership
A leading international provider of construction information solutions, Reed Construction Data announced October 3 that it has partnered with RCMS Group, an innovator in providing building information modeling (BIM) services to the building design and construction market. The agreement is primarily intended to promote the creation and distribution of intelligent building content to the AEC comm...... Read More
100 Degrees Cooler In Stockton
Most cities want to reduce their carbon footprint these days. Stockton (www.stocktongov.com), in the San Joaquin Valley of California, is no exception to the new enviro-friendly thinking. So, it teamed with George Reed Inc., a Central Valley paving contractor, to try a warm-mix asphalt technique rather than the traditional hot-mix procedure on a residential paving project recently.... Read More
ICUEE Showcases New Innovations
Some 845 exhibitors showcased hundreds of new innovations at the 2007 International Construction & Utility Exposition (ICUEE) in Louisville, Ky. ICUEE, also known as The Demo Expo, was held Oct. 16-18 at the Kentucky Exposition Center, and featured more than 1.155 million net square feet of exhibits of the latest equipment, technologies and products for the utility and construction industry.... Read More
Keeping the Old, Recruiting the New
California's construction industry is in the same predicament as the rest of the nation. According to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (www.aem.org), the average age of a construction worker is 52. In decades past, replacements would line up eagerly, ready to follow the path their fathers took, entering the field after high school or a stint in the military.... Read More
The Creative Lawyer
My friend Michael Melcher is a career coach, author of The Creative Lawyer and an all-around great guy. Here he generously shares some valuable lessons on public speaking: Relationship-based Public Speaking (or How to Give a Great Presentation) I first met Keith Ferrazzi at the MBA Career Services Conference a couple of years ago. He gave a keynote address, and I thought, “Wow, he’s a good speaker.” Great public speakers energize, educate and inspire their audiences. Lousy (or lazy) public speakers bore, frustrate and alienate their audiences. Have you... Read More
Integration in Construction Contracting
There are three business activities every construction contractor must perform. 1. Acquiring Work 2. Building that Work 3. Tracking it All Doing these with accuracy and speed assures a certain future. Clients, Service Providers, Subcontractors, Material Suppliers and others affect the quality of these three critical functions. Each of these project partners must be communicated with if the three functions are to be done well thus, provide a competitive advantage. Acquiring work means building work. That is where the real risk starts. This is no place for fumbled information... Read More
Building long-term value: objective financial analysis focuses clients on business revenue growth.
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Privately held companies are often their owners' most significant asset. But when resources are diverted from profitable products to concentrate on short-term revenue, a company's future value may be at stake. This article explains how CPA/ABVs and other valuation Publication: Journal of Accountancy... Read More
Management accounting research for the C-suite: consider findings from cutting-edge research to take your company to the next level.(part 2)
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] This second installment in a series of columns on accounting research summarizes results from the field of management and cost accounting. The 2006 through June 2007 issues of five top-tier journals in management and cost accounting research were examined. Those publications Publication: Journal of Accountancy... Read More
Accounting for gift cards: an emerging issue for retailers and auditors.
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Black Friday, so called because it kicks off the holiday shopping season that retailers hope will bring the $4.7 trillion industry into the black, is just weeks away. But last year, continuing a growing trend, more shoppers chose to purchase gift cards rather than Publication: Journal of Accountancy... Read More
Builder Outlook Remains Bleak
Builder confidence held at record lows in November due to "continuing mortgage market problems and a substantial inventory overhang," according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI), released today.... Read More
Nov 19, 2007- CSI Construction Minute
Frank Ghery responds to MIT lawsuit CSI NewsBrief :: Construction News Delivered to Your Inbox File Download (1:05 min / 1 MB)... Read More
NSCA Releases Report Spotlighting Financial Health of the Industry
NSCA releases report that takes a look at the financial future of the contracting industry.... Read More
Modern Commercial Wiring Based on the NEC 2005, 3rd Edition
By Harvey N. Holzman. Goodheart Willcox. Price: $51.5. Publish Date: 06/2005... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 16, 2007
Contractor Marketing Tools & Customer Service
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Housing Slowdown & Lending Crisis Affect Remodeling
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Contractor Accounting: Financial Statements
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Contractor Sales Advice - The Phone is Your Friend
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Determination of the Relative Merit of Past Performance Evaluation is a Matter of Agency Discretion
In a decision issued by the Government Accountability Office, S4, Inc., B-299817, August 23, 2007, the disappointed offer protested an award to Croop-LaFrance, Inc., a lower priced offeror, under a Request for Proposals (“RFP”) to procure information technology desktop information services. The RFP specified that award would be based on a “technically acceptable-risk/past performance/price tradeoff,” which the RFP explained as follows: For those Offerors who are determined to be technically acceptable, tradeoffs will be made between proposal risk, past performance and price. Proposal risk and past performance are of equal... Read More
Consulting Fees Deemed Excessive and Severely Limited by Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals Decision
The Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals (“ASBCA”) recently decided a case involving the issue of whether a contractor could recover the fees charged by a consulting firm as a contract administration cost. Fru-Con Construction Corporation. Although the cost principles in the FAR, at 31.205-47(f), provide that "costs are unallowable if incurred in connection with the prosecution of claims or appeals against the Federal Government," FAR 31.205-33 provides that "professional and consultant services" are allowable in certain circumstances. One of those circumstances occurs when a consultant's preparation of a request for equitable... Read More
"WHO REALLY CONTROLS BUILDER PERCEPTION"
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Hot Jobs with potential - Construction Project Engineer
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HEADLINES ADDED: November 15, 2007
Contractor Update - Illegal Workers Could Cost You
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Construction & Remodeling Economic Outlook Update
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Contractor Accounting: Cash Flows
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DoD Construction Contracting Heating Up In Virginia
On May 17, 2007, we presented a seminar in Richmond where we discussed the “New World of Federal Construction Contracting” with a number of contractors interested in obtaining and performing Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) and Multiple Award Task Order (MATOC) contracts. Federal agencies are turning to IDIQ and MATOC contracts more and more often for construction projects, particularly in conjunction with the military construction involved in the Base Relocation and Closure Program (BRAC).A recent article in the May 24, 2007 on-line publication Mid-Atlantic Construction stresses the substantial market opportunities... Read More
ENR Podcast of Conversation with Chief of Engineers
Engineering News Record has posted an interesting podcast of a conversation with the recently appointed Chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Lt. General Robert S. Van Antwerp. The General responds to questions about the on-going construction efforts in Iraq, and the completion of the flood protection systems in New Orleans. The recorded conversation (podcast) may be heard by clicking the link on the ENR website at:http://enr.construction.com// people/multimedia/podcasts/2007/070710.asp... Read More
Method of Calculating Recovery Of Extended Home Office Overhead
In a decision earlier this month, the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals reiterated that the recovery of unabsorbed home office overhead, based on the Eichleay formula, is for "a stand-by of an uncertain duration." The Board held that where a contractor is entitled to a compensable contract time extension for additional work, the contractor is entitled to recover extended home office overhead. Extended home office overhead is calculated as a fixed percentage markup of costs incurred during the contract time extension. Fru-Con construction Corporation, ASBCA No. 55197, 55248, October... Read More
Federal Court Rules that Negotiated IDIQ/MATOC Contracting Cannot be Used Instead of Sealed Bidding Without a Lawful and Rational Basis
In a recent prebid protest presented by our firm, Payne Hackenbracht & Sullivan, the United States Court of Federal Claims considered the protest of Weeks Marine, Inc. v. The United States (“Weeks”) challenging the decision of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, South Atlantic Division (“SAD”), to solicit proposals for maintenance dredging and shore protection projects using negotiated indefinite delivery indefinite quantity (“IDIQ”) multiple-award task order contracts (“MATOC”). The Court noted that the contemplated change to negotiated IDIQ task order contracting represented a significant departure from SAD’s prior... Read More
Is Commercial Construction Signaling 7 Lean Years?
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BUSINESS BASICS FOR CONTRACTORS:
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Klein Tools Announces $250,000 Tool Scholarship
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The Sums of All Parts: Redesigning Financials
As part of radical changes to the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement, FASB signs off on a series of new subtotals to be contained in each.... Read More
The Dark Side of Global Accounting Standards
Expect loose standard-setting in the oil and gas industries and a ton of litigation if convergence hurtles down its current track, critics say.... Read More
Tip 96 – Debunking the Time Myth
I always hear people say that they don’t have the time to look for a new job or consult with a personal board of advisors or make that extra call to an important contact. BS, let's get real. When you say “I don’t have time,” just admit that you are really saying “I don’t want to. Others things are more important, and I am not courageous enough to admit that fact to myself and others.” You make time for what is important to you! ... To get complete, future... Read More
Pending Home Sales Index Rises in September
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) said Tuesday that the Pending Home Sales Index (PHSI), a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in September, made an unexpected jump of 0.... Read More
Case law analysis: The independence of experts
Unless expert witnesses tell the truth, are objective and can justify the reasons for their opinions, their reputation can be undermined in court.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 14, 2007
Hot Jobs with potential - Construction Scheduler
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Sneak Peek at New Financial Statements
On Tuesday, FASB staffers will release suggestions about how totals and subtotals will appear on financial statements in the future.... Read More
CE Pro Summit Aims to Determine Business Valuations
The CE Pro Business Valuation Summit brought together top integrators to hear information from a leading consultant, broker and lawyer, as well as from panels of their peers. ... Read More
Builders Look Back, Prepare to Move Forward
Builder executives speaking at Building and Building Products CEO Conference in New York City didn't have sure-fire plans to keep their company afloat in a stormy market.... Read More