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HEADLINES ADDED: November 20, 2009
Fulton Homes Fights Foreclosure Competition with Online Tool
This Arizona-based home builder has come up with a calculator that shows prospective buyers exactly what they are getting themselves into when buying a foreclosed home and compares it to their product. Brilliant.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: October 26, 2009
DiggersList.com Launches Free Online Resource for Construction Community
Site allows home builders to buy, sell or trade Excess Building Materials and Supplies, Place Competitive Bids... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: August 05, 2009
Konstructr.com -- Another new online network
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: July 18, 2009
Today in Concrete History …
On July 16, 1867, F. Joseph Monier patented reinforced concrete. The idea came to him while trying to design a concrete flower pot. Read the whole story at Wired magazine.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: July 03, 2009
Defining the Future of the Worldwide Construction Market
e-Builder and FMI will co-host a one-hour webinar on Thursday, July 16, 2009. The webinar, titled “Inflection Point - Defining the Future of the Worldwide Construction Market”, will discuss how FMI has begun taking a formal look at the industry’s current inflection point through scenario planning - the development of a series of scenarios that describe potential futures for the construction industry. This session is part of e-Builder’s monthly executive webinar series. Webinar participants will learn how the potential implications of each scenario will rock the foundations of architects,... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: June 29, 2009
Construction Estimating Software Study
Go to any national convention and you can't miss seeing dozens of software vendors. It is a big business and there is high value to construction firms. The product has made estimating a less clerical and more automated. Also, it has made estimating more efficient. Due to its power, counting and measuring is less of a task; taking hours instead of days. For those of us who don't looking forward to the job of estimating, computers and software has made it bearable. We feel that most estimating software is... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 20, 2009
Technology for the Construction Contractor: Understanding the Basic IT System
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.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 15, 2009
More Construction Industry Round-Ups
Its been a couple of days since I was able to get a post up and there are a few items that have come to my attention that I would like to include in this blog post, so its time for another Construction Industry Round-Up!!! 10 Ways to Improve Lease Negotiation Skills and Save Money - Webinar Learn tips top negotiators use that result in successful "win-win" negotiations. How to negotiate with everyone. How to polish and fine tune your negotiation skills. When to hold em or fold ‘em,... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 14, 2009
AIA Updates Construction Manager Documents/Software
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 09, 2009
Bendable, self-healing concrete
Concrete is a versatile building material with countless uses in the built world. And the industry continues to advance. National Geographic online posted an article “Bendable Concrete Heals Itself — Just Add Water.” Check it out!... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 05, 2009
Benefits of Using Construction Specific Software
Contractors who use construction specific accounting software gain a substantial advantage over those that use horizontal packages such as QuickBooks or Simply Account (more efficient processes and greater access to in-depth reporting).... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 22, 2009
Project Management Software 101
This episode of the Construction Business Podcast focuses on project management software basics and how construction business owners and project managers can utilize this tool on the job. Typically equated to a dashboard in a vehicle, in general project management software gives the user a snapshot of the overall project. With this tool, contractors are able to much more easily organize everything that goes into the project and pull everything together. This leads to greater productivity, efficiency and in the end revenue on each job. Listen now as Craig... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 16, 2009
Category Winner: Voice/Data/Video Equipment
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 10, 2009
A great online tool for finding equipment
An owner of a construction company needs to keep his or her eye on a lot of things concerning the industry — from local employment laws tonational environmental rules to the latest trends and technology. But probably the most important element of a company a contractor needs to know about concerns tools on the jobsite — the latest in skid-steer loaders, lasers, walk-behind saws, concrete countertop molds and so much more. Whatever you might be looking for, Concrete Contractor’s online portal ForConstructionPros.com makes equipment searching easy with the launch... Read More
Equipment Connection site goes “live” with pavement content
Normally I’m not one to crow about anything technology related (usually because I don’t take the time to figure it out) but a revamped website that went “live” just yesterday really deserves some attention. It’s called Equipment Connection and it’s such a high-caliber upgrade over what our ForConstructionPros.com website offered as it’s product research tool before that it’s almost inaccurate to term this new site an upgrade. It’s going to do for online research what the Ipod did for music selection and the Tivo did for recording television programs;... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 02, 2009
The Importance of Proposal Preparation in Responding to an RFP
As the government has expanded its uses of Contracting by Negotiation through the issuance of RFPs ("Requests for Proposals"), as opposed to Sealed Bidding and the issuance of IFBs ("Invitations for Bid"), contractors have had to adapt to this new way of doing business. All too often, a perfectly capable contractor is not selected for award, even though its price was the lower than its competitors, because it failed to adequately address the evaluation factors listed in the solicitation. A recent decision by the GAO in the Matter of... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 30, 2009
How long will you be on site? - Project calculator launched
Contractors and clients can now estimate how long a project will take at the press of a button thanks to a new construction duration calculator.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 27, 2009
New Web Site Features Risk Management Information For Construction Industry
Customers can access resources on contracts/contractual risk transfer, OSHA 1926 safety and associated training topics, fleet safety for both nonregulated and regulated fleets, and building green.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 26, 2009
Construction television ads in the Internet era
... Read More
The Construction Marketing Ideas video blog review
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 24, 2009
Osborne signs up to Builder's Profile
Osborne has signed up to the Builder's Profile, an online system which aims to reduce duplication and inefficiency associated with the current pre-qualification process.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 19, 2009
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Receive our Free Monthly Newsletter Email: : Constant Contact HTML for OptIn Tag -->... Read More
ABC Launches Website to Educate Public on Card Check Legislation
The Associated Builders and Contractors has launched a new website, TheTruthAboutEFCA.com, to help educate the public about the sweeping economic and workplace consequences of the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), or “card check” legislation. TheTruthAboutEFCA.com will track the latest news from the mainstream media and social networking sites, highlight academic studies and public opinion data, and contain video ads and interviews to expose EFCA’s threat to the U.S. economy and an employee’s right to a federally supervised private-ballot during union organizing activities.... Read More
Stimulus-Watch Webpage
Building America’s Future (BAF), a bipartisan and national infrastructure coalition, launched a stimulus-watch webpage on its main website: www.investininfrastructure.org/stimulus. The portal links to the majority of the state’s stimulus/economic recovery websites, as well as related local news. The mission of the portal is to “serve as a one-stop-shop to track how elected officials are using stimulus funds to improve local infrastructure,” says Polly Trottenberg, executive director for Building America’s Future.... Read More
Risk Management Tools for the Construction Industry
Travelers recently launched an enhanced Risk Control Web site offering customers and agents easier access to industry-specific risk management tools for the construction industry. The centerpiece of the website is Construction TravSources which is a collection of safety and risk management resources dedicated to help contractors meet today’s risk management and safety challenges. Topics in the resource include: contracts/contractual risk transfer, OSHA 1926 safety and associated training topics, fleet safety for both non-regulated and regulated fleets, and building green. The other significant feature of the website is an advanced,... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 16, 2009
Software Follows Equipment For Life in Cat Pilot Program
The world's largest Caterpillar dealer, Finning, is a pilot customer for a software package designed to help improve customer service and profitability throughout the lifecycle of every piece of machinery they sell or rent.... Read More
Software Follows Construction Equipment for Life
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 09, 2009
Westinghouse Digital Launches Digital Signage Web Site
New site features digital signage solution ROI calculator to help businesses maximize ROI.... Read More
Recession-Proof Employee Loyalty Plan
Thanks to the struggling economy many small business owners are putting a freeze on raises and bonuses. According to this week’s guest Ed Hess, that makes it all the more critical to show your appreciation in other ways if you want them to stick around for the long haul. And lucky for you employees do not respond solely to cold hard cash. Listen to this episode of the Construction Business Podcast as Ed Hess provides some insights on creative ways to keep your troops happy with little to no... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 23, 2009
Department of Homeland Security Sued Over E-Verify Requirement
In November, 2008, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implemented a new rule through the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) that would force companies doing business with the federal government to clear their workers through a verification database. This database is called E-Verify and it electronically confirms whether a new hire is in the United States legally and therefore eligible to work on a federal project. It works by comparing the name of the queried worker against submitted I-9 forms - the Social Security Administration’s paper based means of verifying worker... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 18, 2009
Economic Recovery Act
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HEADLINES ADDED: January 30, 2009
Subcontractor survival tips podcast
The American Subcontractors Association is currently offering a free podcast entitled “10 Survival Tips for Contractors in Lean Times.” Hosted by Donald Gregory, Esq. of the Columbus, Ohio-based law firm of Kegler, Brown, Hill and Ritter, the 15-minute podcast addresses topics such as preserving lien rights and cost-cutting. You can listen to the podcast through your computer ordownload the program to your iPod or MP3 player. Access the podcast at the ASA’s website.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 29, 2009
BuildingGreen Launches GreenBuildingAdvisor.com
An online source for pros on how to build green in the real world... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 15, 2009
Constellation HomeBuilder Systems Develops Nine New Home Building Software Solutions
New Software tackles land development, marketing, new home sales and other tasks for home builders... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 10, 2009
We begin a new year that promises to be challenging but full of opportunities as the economic shake-down brings change to the construction industry
We begin a new year that promises to be challenging but full of opportunities as the economic shake-down brings change to the construction industry. The smart businesses are looking how they can become more efficient and innovative, how they can exploit new markets, find new customers, create productive alliances and distribution networks.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 08, 2009
CSI Introduces Green Format
The Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) unveiled GreenFormat, a Web-based database of green product information, at the U.S. Green Building Council's Greenbuild International Conference and Expo in Boston.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: December 09, 2008
CSI Introduces Green Format
The Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) unveiled GreenFormat, a Web-based database of green product information, at the U.S. Green Building Council's Greenbuild International Conference and Expo in Boston.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 24, 2008
Construction Estimating Software Study
Go to any national convention and you can't miss seeing dozens of software vendors. It is a big business and there is high value to construction firms. The product has made estimating a less clerical and more automated. Also, it has made estimating more efficient. Due to its power, counting and measuring is less of a task; taking hours instead of days. For those of us who don't looking forward to the job of estimating, computers and software has made it bearable. We feel that most estimating software is... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 22, 2008
Construction Cell Phone Technology
Lisa-Jane Romer, Motorola Director of Product Operations - Sprint Account is the guest on this bonus episode of the Construction Business Podcast. Our third podcast of the week focuses on emerging technologies of mobile phones that can help construction business owners and their employers work more efficiently. Lisa also gives a sneak peak of the Motorola i776 and the Motorola i576.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 21, 2008
Construction Software Selection Checklist
Houston Neal offers a high-level feature comparison checklist for beginning a software evaluation. © 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | One comment Add to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with Technorati Want more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 20, 2008
Visitor experience on construction industry websites
I have been taking a closer look this week at the changes in visitor experience at some of the websites on offer from the products and services companies who send regular new stories to Buildingtalk. There is a definite shift towards providing much more online than just basic information and contact details, which was mostly [...]... Read More
Construction Marketing Website FAQ's
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 18, 2008
Dexter and Chaney Places in Deloitte Ranking
Selected based on revenue growth... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: October 20, 2008
Our 75 E-Learning Courses are Available for Construction Professionals
We have created a robust online learning system of 75 classes to help construction professionals continue their learning without the expense of travel and the convenience of an anytime schedule. These courses are from the author of McGraw Hill's new book, Managing a Construction Firm on Just 24 Hours a Day. Whether on the weekend or weeknight, we are ready for your needs. No need to fill up the truck or carve out time from your busy schedule. This is one way to continue to work smarter. Click on... Read More
Welcome
Thank you for visiting the Construction Contractor's Digest. We are pleased that you have joined us. This site is for the express purpose of being a resource for construction leaders. We work as management advisors with construction firms. We are Stevens Construction Institute.Management Advisors to Construction Contractors. Presently, we have written over 190 articles ranging in subjects such as managing people & processes to financial management & computers. Enter your key word (use American English) and I am certain we will have some information for you. As you read... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: October 16, 2008
Web-based Construction Management Systems
From my discussions with various construction project management providers, there has been a large number who know offer web-based systems. This creates a variety of benefits in that the provider is responsible for maintaining all the hardware and staffing an IT department. Essentially all the owner does is log in to the program, via the web, and controls all of the features offered from the system. In addition, all documents and other materials associated with the project are housed by the provider, eliminating the need of the contractor to... Read More
Hitachi highlights user experience
Hitachi Construction Machinery has launched a customer-dedicated website.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 09, 2008
Construction Estimating Software Study
Go to any national convention and you can't miss seeing dozens of software vendors. It is a big business and there is high value to construction firms. The product has made estimating a less clerical and more automated. Also, it has made estimating more efficient. Due to its power, counting and measuring is less of a task; taking hours instead of days. For those of us who don't looking forward to the job of estimating, computers and software has made it bearable. We feel that most estimating software is... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 01, 2008
Consolidation in construction IT market likely, predicts Tekton
There is still a further shake-out to come among the numerous IT software providers who currently trade with construction firms, says John Marchant, head of product management at Tekton.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: August 28, 2008
Fluke Launches Web Site to Answer Questions From Building Maintenance Professionals
Fluke Corp. recently launched a Web site designed to help technicians solve problems and meet building maintenance challenges.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: August 13, 2008
Our New 6-1/2 Hour CD Set - Turn Your Truck Into a Classroom
Our 6+ Hour Audio Series, The Business of Construction Contracting is perfect for busy construction professionals who have "Windshield Time" These inclusive CD's contain management insights and worksmart thinking in the areas of 1) The Business of Construction Contracting - Business, Strategic and Economic Issues and Insights 2) Work Acquisition - Estimating, Bidding, Priciing, and Selling 3) Building Work - Project Control, Project Management and Labor Productivity 4) Keeping Track - Financial and Adminstrative Practices 5) People - Management, Recruitment and Training of Your Most Valuable Asset 6) Miscellaneous... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: July 17, 2008
4Projects enjoys surge in demand for IT software
4Projects, the IT group offering construction project collaboration software via the extranet, has lifted its turnover by more than a third to £4.4m.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: July 14, 2008
Royal Architectural Institute of Canada launches wiki on carbon-neutral building
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) has launched a wiki site to enable architects to exchange information on making buildings carbon-neutral by 2030.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: June 21, 2008
Our E-Learning Courses are Available for Construction Professionals
We have created a robust online learning system with WebEx to help contractors continue their learning without the expense of travel and the conveience of a anytime schedule. Whether on the weekend or weeknight, we are ready for your needs. No need to fill up the truck or carve out time from your busy schedule. This is one way to continue to work smarter. Click on the link below to register and to review our offering for construction companies. http://webex.geolearning.com/stevensci/... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: June 11, 2008
Our CD Set for Managers and Executives with "Windshield Time" - 6+ Hours
DVD sleeve with bodycopy.pdfWe have recorded 6+ hours of instructional audio for Managers and Executives Who Have "Windshield Time" in their travels. This audio is created from our library of Seminars, Webinars and Books. These inclusive CD's contain management insights and worksmart thinking in the areas of 1) The Business of Construction Contracting - Business, Strategic and Economic Issues and Insights 2) Work Acquisition - Bidding, Priciing, Bidding and Selling 3) Building Work - Project Control, Project Management and Labor Productivity 4) Keeping Track - Financial and Monetary Practices... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: June 10, 2008
71% of housebuilders think IT is key
Last week we featured a White Paper from Bentley Systems about ‘Best Practices for Sustaining Infrastructure’ which emphasised the importance of information technology to changes that will help create a sustainable world. This week we had the results from Autodesk of an independent survey into the use of technology in the housebuilding industry. In light [...]... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 28, 2008
Job Site Signs for Construction Site
During the JLC Live show last week in Long Beach, I had a number of people ask me about the new flip video recording devices that I briefly demonstrated during my classes. These small recording devices are one of the best new tools a contractor can use in advertising. The number of ways this little cameras can be used to gather and convey information to the buying public is almost unmeasurable. Here is a very short clip showing a job sign posted on a new job site right on... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 15, 2008
Free online software for concrete contractors
I ran across a few helpful online calculators for concrete contractors. One of the calculatorshelps you determine dimensions and quantity of concrete needed for concrete stairs. The other motorola q ringtones info polyphonic remember ringtones free ringtones for sprint phone funny ringtones download cingular ringtones cell phone ringtones and wallpaper download free mosquito ringtones 24 ringtones theme free verizon wireless ringtones free motorola tracfone ringtones free pcs ringtones sprint download verizon ringtones free cingular wireless ringtones free music real ringtones sprint send ringtones to your phone cingular download free... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 02, 2008
Free 3D software
During a recent interview, a concrete countertop maker mentioned to me a free 3D imaging software program he uses called Google Sketch-Up. He uses it on countertop projects, creating a 3D image of his design for himself, others working on the project, and customers. You can add color and bring a project to life before ever pouring the concrete. And hey, it’s free, so you can mess around with it and never spend a dime! I tooled around on the site for a while looking at some of the... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 26, 2008
Tool Launched for Railing and Deck Design and Estimates
This software for building industry professionals can help create more authentic designs, more accurate material lists and cost estimates.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 07, 2008
Should homebuilders blog?
Here’s what homebuilders should mull before they blog.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 02, 2008
Streamline Your Website Pages
Squeezing the most efficient performance from your web pages is important. The benefits are universal, whether the site is personal or large and professional.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 28, 2008
Buildingtalk busiest ever week with 75,134 visitors
Buildingtalk had its busiest ever week with 75,134 visitors accessing 412,328 pages on the website in the last seven days, giving an annual visitor rate of over 4 million. We also passed another milestone with the 25,000th story being added to the site on Thursday. This happened to be a drywall technology story about [...]... Read More
Streamline Your Website Pages
Squeezing the most efficient performance from your web pages is important. The benefits are universal, whether the site is personal or large and professional.... Read More
Virtual Construction - Part 1
We are at the age of Virtual Construction. If you are younger, you are not surprised. You suspected that computers were a "solution looking for a problem" for many years. Why shouldn't you have seen and believed this. Computers work at the speed of light. They can process billions of pieces of information and the cost of this is more reasonable than ever. It is interesting to note that Virtual Construction marries one of the oldest businesses with one of the newest business trends. This marriage has the possibility... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 17, 2008
Product Focus on Software
Product Focus on Software... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 11, 2008
Construction Cameras Bring Benefits To Projects
Jack Waghorn, president of Vienna, Virginia-based developer NV Retail, knew that he would put a construction camera to work on his company's Rutherford Crossing retail center project in Winchester, Virginia, after learning that a friend and fellow developer was able use photographs taken by his camera to prove liability for a multimillion-dollar error that flooded his project.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 05, 2008
Electrical design/drafting software
Design Master Electrical 7.0 is an update to the company’s integrated electrical design and drafting software program.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 04, 2008
Mobile Faxing Saves Money, Time
Although it's said that "home is where the heart is," in construction it can also be said that the office is wherever you're wearing your hardhat. Successful contractors generally spend most of their time on the job site rather than in the office. In fact, the only time they may see that office is before work in the morning or after the day's labors are completed.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 02, 2008
Frustrated by Your Construction Software?
Your computer system can be a blessing and a curse. We know when it is blessing because it has sped up the collection and reporting of information. This makes our analysis of those reports much timelier. Important in our risky, superheated race to completion on construction projects. However, when it is a curse, we know that as well. The system sometimes won't produce reports that we must have. Certainly, a good report writing software on the back end helps here. To name a name, Crystal Reports has a following... Read More
Construction survey shows 'keeping abreast of IT' to be low priority
Latest findings suggest that only 11% of construction firms think it is a priority to keep abreast of technological changes in IT.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 28, 2008
Trimble Dimensions 2007
More than 2,500 people from over 50 countries attended Trimble Dimensions 2007, held recently in Las Vegas, Nev. The theme of the conference was "Transform Your Business with the Connected Site," and it provided insight into how surveying, engineering, construction, mapping, and geospatial professionals can apply process integration, positioning and communication technologies to transform busin...... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 10, 2008
JCB launches shock and dirt resistant Toughphone
JCB said its new Toughphone is ‘the toughest phone in the world’.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 06, 2008
The Wonderful World of Widgets
A sampling of the top widget companies, their offerings, and the businesses benefiting from their services.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 03, 2008
Microsoft Drops Support for Older Office File Formats
The latest update for Microsoft Office 2003 disables the application's ability to read files from older versions of Word and Excel. It's sure to cause headaches for corporations and institutions storing older files.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: January 01, 2008
Solid-State Hard Drives to Improve Stability, Speed
Solid-state NAND drives offer significantly faster access times than traditional rotational platter magnetic media based hard drives. ... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: December 30, 2007
Top Classroom Technologies for 2008
As teachers and students get geared up for the second half of the school year to start, systems integrators are reviewing last year’s sales figures and predicting what may be top technologies for classrooms in the coming year. Bob Berry, a Seattle-based sales executive for AV supplier Troxell Communications... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: December 27, 2007
What's IT Worth?
Most companies fail to report the true value of their software assets, according to a new study.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: December 25, 2007
Best of 2007: Technology
If you wanted to know the implications of XBRL, what people were saying about AS5, why the financial aspects of Second Life should be regulated, or how to make better use of spreadsheets, this was the year for you.... Read More
More Project Efficiency Through Technology
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: December 20, 2007
Biggie Smalls
Small builders used to be overlooked by builder software companies, but that's changed as Constellation HomeBuilder Systems seeks to revive BuildSoft; BuildLinks and Corecon keep making improvements; and products such as the Web-based cost-estimating system 6x6 Builder, by 6x6-Builder.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: December 18, 2007
Acquiring Minds Want to Know
New software and services help buyers assess the IT systems of potential takeover targets.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: December 12, 2007
D-Tools System Integrator 5.1 Available Now
D-Tools, Inc., the worldwide leader in system integration software, recently announced the release of the latest upgrade of its award-winning System Integrator software, SI5.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: December 11, 2007
Sprint Wireless Cards / Dell Laptop / Field Connectivity
Recently we tried out the internal EVDO cards from Sprint in Dell Laptop computers. I have used many of these wireless cards in the past and the service has always been shakey. We have really been trying to test these out in the field to see if they would be a good product for ourselves and our clients who need to connect to their IT networks remotely. Today I was driving from San Jose to Atascadero in CA. I took Highway 101 which has poor cell phone reception. Leaving... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: November 29, 2007
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
HEADLINES ADDED: November 26, 2007
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
HEADLINES ADDED: November 20, 2007
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
HEADLINES ADDED: October 30, 2007
BusinessWare Technologies Released AvailSuite Personal Software to Support Contractors
Austin, TX. Contractors need to be organized and look professional even taking the first steps toward business success. Those companies can get the powerful but affordable business management software and an easy upgrade path. BusinessWare Technologies has recently completed a significant upgrade to its AvailSuite line of field service software, with comprehensive tax reports, improved user interface, and QuickBooks synchronization.... Read More
Effective (inexpensive) CRM
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: October 25, 2007
Coins, the construction software group, reports record profit of £1.2m
Coins, the construction software specialist group, made a profit of £1.2m in 2006 as a result of a year of “strong operational performance”.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: October 24, 2007
Do You Need a GPS for Your Investments?
To stay on track with your investments, take a cue from innovative construction companies who have begun using GPS in their excavation equipment to help monitor where they are and where they're going. ... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: October 19, 2007
Apple to open up iPhone software
Apple boss Steve Jobs says outside developers will now be allowed to make add-on software for the iPhone.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: October 17, 2007
Aug 20, 2007- CSI Construction Minute
Engineers want a high-tech makeover of bridge inspections CSI NewsBrief :: Construction News Delivered to Your Inbox File Download (1:14 min / 1 MB)... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: October 16, 2007
CSI Construction Minute- March 14, 2007
Tablet computer brings drawings to the field. CSI NewsBrief :: Construction News Delivered to Your Inbox File Download (1:10 min / 1 MB)... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 26, 2007
'$100 laptop' to sell to public
A low-cost laptop, designed for children in developing countries, will go on sale in North America.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 25, 2007
Field Device for Project Teams?
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 24, 2007
Will A Hundred Users Share One PC?
--> /td> lspan="2">Will A Hundred Users Share One PC? A new desktop PC today is 10 times more powerful than one from about three years ago, but most of us don't use our PCs any differently. According to startup NComputing, that means we should only need to buy a tenth as many. more Update your feed preferences powered by SimpleFeed... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 21, 2007
The High Cost of Clean Data
Chief information officers see funding limits as one of the biggest barriers to pursuing ambitious IT projects, according to a recent Accenture study.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 17, 2007
Building Information Modeling – Revolutionizing the Industry
Imagine being able to see your project before it's built; fully coordinating the installation before fabrication, delivery, and erection; estimating the cost and schedule accurately; and, ultimately, delivering a high quality project faster than ever before.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 13, 2007
Advice On Building A Better Password
--> /td> lspan="2">Advice On Building A Better Password We're always hearing that we need stronger passwords, but many people don't know how to craft a better, stronger password or they simply don't take the time to come up with some crazy complex string that they have no chance of remembering. I was just talking with someone who gave me some great advice. more Update your feed preferences powered by SimpleFeed... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: September 06, 2007
Poll: Many Vista Users Are Also Moving To Office 2007
--> /td> lspan="2">Poll: Many Vista Users Are Also Moving To Office 2007 Survey sponsor CDW says it appears that small businesses are making the transition sooner than large corporations. more Update your feed preferences powered by SimpleFeed... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 14, 2007
Will Black Be The New Green For The Web?
--> Will Black Be The New Green For The Web? Did you know that an all-white Web page takes roughly 74 watts to display, while an all-black page uses only 59 watts? This little piece of information could lead to a revolution in Web design. more Update your feed preferences powered by SimpleFeed... Read More
Accelerating Interoperability in Capital Projects
A few weeks ago we wrote about a green homebuilding technology that was being highlighted at FIATECH's conference in early April.... Read More
Secure Mailing Envelope to Shield Smart Card Data
Prevents personal data in the smart card's embedded integrated circuit from being transmitted via radio frequency (RF) waves to reading device.... Read More
Smart Card Alliance Says 2-D Barcode in Proposed Real ID Driver's License Would Be Inadequate ...
Static nature of 2-D barcode allows printed media to be copied and disassociated from the original ID and its bearer, enabling misuse of the information.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: May 01, 2007
In Search of Traffic As a Small Business
A Web site is only as valuable as the number of people who see it. Here's how to make sure customers can find you online.... Read More
The Strategy Paradox: Interview with the Author
I recently had the opportunity to chat with Michael Raynor, author of the newly-published business book, The Strategy Paradox. Paul J. H. Schoemaker of the Wharton Business School called it, "A very timely book that penetrates to the core of strategy, namely how to balance commitment and flexibility in a world of increasing uncertainty.” Who am I to argue? I’m a little late to this party - I know Guy Kawasaki and Brian Oberkirch already had a go at it - but I did have a good time... Read More
BusinessWare Technologies Released AvailSuite Personal Software to Support Contractors
Austin, TX. Contractors need to be organized and look professional even taking the first steps toward business success. Those companies can get the powerful but affordable business management software and an easy upgrade path. BusinessWare Technologies has recently completed a significant upgrade to its AvailSuite line of field service software, with comprehensive tax reports, improved user interface, and QuickBooks synchronization.... Read More
E-Construction Hampered By Inability To Share 3-D Models
Boosters of collaborative, virtual design and construction at the American Institute of Steel Construction Inc. are seriously concerned that the industry is focusing too much on building information modeling and too little on interoperability.... Read More
More M&A in Construction Software
Maxwell Systems recently made a fourth acquisition in its continuing consolidation drive, this time quietly picking up Quest Solutions.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 27, 2007
User Community and ROI
Every time I give a talk, someone always asks, "That's all good and nice that helping users learn is the key to creating passionate users... but who's going to do all that extra work? Who's going to make the extra tutorials and better docs?" Answer: your user community. Think about all the things a strong user community can do for you: tech support, user training, marketing (evangelism, word of mouth), third-party add-ons, even new product ideas. And that's not including any extra sales you might make on community/tribe items... Read More
Chicago DCAP saving time & trees with CPM!
... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 26, 2007
FIATECH Raises Hand for Technology Adoption
FIATECH, an industry consortium dedicated to improving capital facilities construction through the implementation of emerging technology, focused on progress in design data interoperability for the process and chemical plant sector at an annual technology conference and showcase April 9-12 in Washington, D.C.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 25, 2007
Looking for a "hot" date?
When it comes to lead generation, the dating analogy is nothing new. But I liked what Tom Myer at the tdog.blog said on the topic of lead nurturing in his post, "If you don’t remember me on the second date, why should we go on a third?" Myer writes:“If lead generation is like dating, and we’re all out there on the singles scene, most of our effort goes to landing first dates. We do everything we can to catch someone’s eye, fetch up the nerve to ask them out,... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 24, 2007
Companies Say Security Breach Could Destroy Their Business
--> Companies Say Security Breach Could Destroy Their Business A McAfee Datagate study showed 33% surveyed think they are at risk and that 60% of IT managers said they had suffered a data breach in the past year. more Update your feed preferences powered by SimpleFeed... Read More
Recap: AGC BIM Conference in Atlanta
According to Mayan astrological calendars, the world will end in December of 2012. [Or is it 2016? I can’t remember.] But one thing seems certain: if so, by the time it does, use of BIM (building information modeling) will be commonplace in the delivery of construction projects.That was the consensus (or at least the non-Mayan part was) at last Friday’s well-attended BIM conference in Atlanta, sponsored by the Georgia Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America (“AGC”). It seemed obvious to those attending that the BIM debate has... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 23, 2007
Lead Generation via Podcasts: An Interview With Paul Dunay
Did you know that podcasting can help you generate more leads and nurture future customers? Research shows that Podcasts do impact B2B purchase decisions. Buyers want to know you understand them and that you’re relevant to their specific needs. They also want to know the people behind the company. An excellent way to reach them is by developing thought leading (educational) content in the form of podcasts. If you provide your prospects with high quality thought leading content as part of your lead nurturing process, then you will find... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 19, 2007
Shimmin On Software: Seven Rules Of Web 2.0 For The Enterprise
--> Shimmin On Software: Seven Rules Of Web 2.0 For The Enterprise Before you grab infuse your ERP system with a well-meaning but uncontrollable wiki, consider the following advice--the Seven Rules of Web 2.0 for the Enterprise. more Update your feed preferences powered by SimpleFeed... Read More
On B2B Demand Generation tools and Lead Generation Dashboards
CEOs continue to demand better ROI measurement and accountability from marketers. As a result there’s been a surge of interest in software and tools to manage the process of lead management, lead nurturing and lead generation with a greater emphasis on measurability. In 2005, I wrote a post predicting that lead generation dashboards would become a hot topic and according to the CMO Council's 2007 Outlook Report the time for marketing performance dashboards is now. The report states, "Seventy-five percent of respondents from companies with revenues of more than... Read More
Is this better than BIM; or, is it BIM Redux?
Newly noted on April 18,2007 at Innovations Report is an article entitled "Software invention could save construction industry a fortune" in which it is noted that researchers at the University of Teesside are spearheading a revolution which could save the construction industry millions. The effort involves developing their own software tools which harness the power of computer games technology to give planners and builders the ability to rehearse different phases of a major construction project over and over again on a PC screen before building work begins. This can... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 18, 2007
Eight Ideas for Revitalizing Your Blog
17 APR 2007 from Marketing Profs Daily | Read the full story» Before you give up and decide to pull the plug on your blogging experience, let's look at some ideas for revitalizing your blog so that both you and your customers can benefit from it.... Read More
Intel Outlines Mobile Roadmap
--> Intel Outlines Mobile Roadmap The company unveiled plans for processors for notebooks, ultra-mobile PCs, and smaller computers that Intel calls "mobile Internet devices." more Update your feed preferences powered by SimpleFeed... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 16, 2007
HEADLINES ADDED: April 15, 2007
Sales Tech Tools to Help You Close More Deals
Software trends that are shaping the way your sales force works... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 13, 2007
HEADLINES ADDED: April 09, 2007
Nobody Buys A 10lb. Zucchini
The timeless client question, “How will we measure success?” has rarely if ever been answered satisfactorily in the PR industry. A few years ago, frustrated that a young buck like me couldn’t come up with a better answer than, “You’ll feel it in your gut,” I set out to resolve the issue. (Although, holy mission aside, the “trust your gut” response was still better than any related to ad-value equivalency, and probably not any worse than an answer related to share-of-voice metrics. But that’s another post.) Working with a Siebel... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 08, 2007
Google Brings Map Mashups To The Masses
--> Google Brings Map Mashups To The Masses The point-and-click interface helps nonprogrammers draw lines and shapes, and add place mark icons, text, photos, and videos. more Update your feed preferences powered by SimpleFeed... Read More
City of Chicago Underground Coordination
... Read More
Building Groups Seek Unity on Interoperability and BIM
As more industry sectors weigh in on the future of Building Information Modeling and other interoperability issues, the International Alliance for Interoperability and the National Institute of Building Sciences are trying to create neutral ground to bring unity to the growing trend.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 06, 2007
Giving Thanks...For New Opportunities in IT
Each year as late November rolls around, tradition dictates that we stop and give thanks for all that we enjoy as Americans. Before we strap on our feed bags this Thanksgiving, hopefully we'll all take just a moment to do that.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 04, 2007
"Software as a Service" in Construction
Today I am posting the first of what I hope will be a number of roundtable discussions with technology leaders in the construction software marketplace. I've edited this discussion down to a "blog-size" post, but the full transcript is available on RiverGuide for Construction Software.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 03, 2007
UDA ConstructionOffice
Some interesting products to take a look at if you are investigating streamlining your technology systems: www.udatechnologies.com... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: April 02, 2007
Dangerous Love: It's Possible to Love a Technology Too Much
Adopting technology for technology's sake - its "coolness" - is dangerous!... Read More
Speed vs. Risk: Automating the Conceptual Estimate
An engineer at a very large corporation recently sent me an email in response to my estimating software post. He felt that I did not address the up-front estimating requirements of building owners prior to formal design. That is, how do they create a conceptual estimate prior to having detailed drawings and bids? Moreover, how do they compare these initial estimates to the actual costs when the project is complete?... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 29, 2007
So How Do You Actually Use Your Cellphone?
In the past few years cell phone manufacturers have dazzled us with an amazing array of features. Basic games and simple text messaging are now passé. Cameras were once considered a big deal. Now, the latest models come with music...... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 27, 2007
Get Software Selection Right: Ten Steps to Success
n the past, customers often blamed their software for project failures and often they were right. Now that the software industry has matured, products tend to be stable and increasingly well designed. So today, the blame for project failure typically falls on a breakdown in the customer's selection and implementation processes, not the software.... Read More
Excel: as Good as It Gets for Preconstruction Management?
I just finished a report on preconstruction management software and decided to share some of my finding in a post here at ENR.com. When I say "preconstruction management software" I am referring to software for quantity takeoff and cost estimating, as well as RFI and bid management solutions.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 26, 2007
Follow-Up on Door Schedule Challenge
Here's a brief follow-up to our recent door schedule challenge.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 19, 2007
Used Hard Drives Offer Treasure Trove Of Private Information
Forensic experts analyzed used hard drives and found porn, drivers license numbers, medical information, and even one man's last will and testament.... Read More
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Update
This morning I just saw two great articles in Building Design+Construction magazine talking about developments in Building Information Modeling (BIM) which will have a huge impact on the entire construction process. BIM Software Integrates RSMeans for Project Costing - imagine that - designers actually being able to figure out how much things cost while they are designing! Steel Teams Lead The Way Toward 3-D Integration - great article that points to actual dollars saved on a project through planning - Saved $400,000! Pre-planning construction projects will always save you... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 18, 2007
Google Docs Tops Among Top Earners
Google Docs & Spreadsheets attracted 424,785 unique visitors in November and 432,156 in December.... Read More
Google Targets Microsoft With Launch Of Business Applications
The search engine giant adopts a subscription model with its corporate software bundle to counter Microsoft Office and Windows Live.... Read More
Apple-Cisco iPhone Deal Positions Firms To Jointly Pursue Wi-Fi And VoIP
Scheduled for delivery in June, Apple's iPhone will have Wi-Fi capability -- a mobile phone feature that is likely to roil the entire cell phone landscape.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 17, 2007
How much control should our users have?
We all know Featuritis is bad, but what about User Control? Is more always better? The notion that a user-centric focus means putting users in control of everything--their software (and other tools), their learning, their conferences, the companies they support (the now-over-used "community")--is pervasive. But even when users do have the expertise to make good decisions, do they want to? In some scenarios, of course. But when applied with abandon, user control can mean user suffering. In the 80's, the big thing in education was Learner Control. With hypertext... Read More
Beyond Nextel: Going Mobile with More than Just Voice
Mobile technologies are now ubiquitous: pretty much everyone has a mobile phone; Blackberries aren't just for bankers anymore; and, EVDO is allowing wireless laptop connectivity just about anywhere. So, I wanted to drill in on how these technologies are being used to extend traditional construction software products into the mobile realm.... Read More
Innovative Tools Help Companies Cut the Data Beast Down to Size
Suffering high costs and deep frustration used to be a rite of passage when growing companies decided it was time to integrate data systems to improve enterprise operations.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 16, 2007
Keeping an Eye on Construction Webcam Technology
A few weeks ago, I asked readers to let me know of technological innovations in the construction industry. I was quickly informed of the trend towards monitoring construction projects with digital cameras (AKA "Webcams").... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: March 15, 2007
Geek or Champion: What's the Role of IT in Your Company?
Different companies have different views on information technology. And like most things, companies' views on IT are in large part a function of the individuals that represent that aspect of the business.... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 24, 2007
Good Ideas Always Sound Crazy at First
If someone else had said it, it would have sounded like any cookie-cutter corporate consultant telling office workers to think outside the box. But when calls for "disruptive technologies" are coming from Andrew Grove, cofounder of the Intel Corp. and renowned management superguru, people sit up and listen.... Read More
Got a Tough Engineering Question? Ask the Internet!
... Read More
Construction Web Video Games: Take Care Not to Drown the Dwarves
Video games have come a long way and are less stigmatized as shallow diversions for children and unwashed male nerds. Everyone seems to be picking them up. But what games are out there for the construction professional who doesn't feel compelled to shoot snarling aliens in the face or advance their half-elf wizard to level 60? Luckily, there are a more than a few small but cleverly-designed construction-based games online.... Read More
Segway Construction
For the most part I agree with Don Fornes’s depiction of the construction industry as late technology adopters. There are interesting exceptions. Watch this Youtube clip. It was posted in July, but I came across it a few days ago. I was curious to learn the back story: was this just a gimmick or an actual job site?... Read More
HEADLINES ADDED: February 22, 2007
Microsoft Apologizes for Serving Malware
dark_15 writes "Microsoft has apologized for serving malware via its websites and Windows Live Messenger software. APC reader Jackie Murphy reported the problem: 'With Microsoft launching Vista along with their Defender software to protect users from viruses and spyware, it seems therefore to be an oxymoron that they have started to putting paid changing banner advertisements for malware, on the popular MSN groups servers.'"... Read More
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