Winter
Showing 1–16 of 696 results
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Parametric insurance seeks to bridge COVID-19 gap
Winter 2021
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 430
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed a significant insurance protection gap in the construction industry (and others): communicable disease. In response, one type of policy that has been gaining traction is parametric insurance coverage. This article explains the concept behind these policies and how contractors could use one to guard against specific risks.
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Managing backlog in an uncertain economy
Winter 2021
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 537
Abstract: Although construction backlog seems to be rebounding, projects in some areas are still being postponed or canceled. During these uncertain times, contractors can better prepare for what’s to come by monitoring not only their own backlogs, but also that of the industry. This article offers helpful tips on doing so.
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Let profit flourish, not fade away
Winter 2021
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 669
Abstract: A gradual decline in expected gross profits over the course of a project is known as “profit fade.” It not only undermines financial performance, but also may raise red flags with sureties and lenders. This article describes common culprits and suggests a variety of ways to prevent the problem.
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All year long – Smart budgeting practices for construction companies
Winter 2021
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 934
Abstract: Most business owners would admit that the only thing harder than setting a budget is sticking to it. Contractors face the added stress of managing multiple project budgets, as well. This article discusses how to stay on top of a company budget throughout the year. A sidebar looks at some ways to improve project-level budgeting.
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Study digs into changes and challenges for small firms
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Law Firm Management
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 426
Abstract: Few areas of life are going unaffected by the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic fallout. But according to research from Thomson Reuters’ 2020 Report on the State of U.S. Small Law Firms, one thing has remained nearly constant: the challenges confronting small law firms and firms’ response, or lack thereof. This short article reviews the report’s findings — and though the findings may seem discouraging, there are opportunities available for proactive firms.
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Is a dedicated sales team the answer to this economy?
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Law Firm Management
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 546
Abstract: The practice of law is almost always stressful, but current conditions make this period and the near future more anxiety-producing than ever. Firms are balancing the COVID-19 pandemic, economic uncertainty and ongoing pressure to bring in new business. This article discusses why this has led some to follow the lead of other professional services and create dedicated teams of sales professionals to help lighten the load.
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When it’s time to let a partner go
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Law Firm Management
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 686
Abstract: Partners can go through waves of being productive and not-so-productive. But what should a firm do about those partners who can’t seem to get out of a rut — or even worse, don’t seem to want to? While it’s not the type of situation any managing partner wants to deal with, this article looks at why tackling the issue head on is the best course of action.
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Signing on the dotted line – Due diligence for law firm mergers
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Law Firm Management
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 885
Abstract: Law firm merger activity dropped sharply in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, but some struggling firms are reassessing the strategy as a possible life preserver. The pandemic economy makes comprehensive due diligence more important than ever when evaluating potential arrangements, though. This article covers what firms should consider before signing on the dotted line, including financial issues, the entity structures of the merging firms, and the blending of attorneys and staff. A short sidebar discusses a few areas to research once the decision is made to go ahead with a merger to make the transition as smooth as possible.
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Is blockchain the future of construction?
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 427
Abstract: Blockchain is the technology that powers Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Although it may not be ready for prime time in construction just yet, industry experts recognize its promise to transform the way projects are managed. This article explains how blockchain works and how “smart contracts” can keep everyone on the same digital page.
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5 tips for reducing workers’ compensation costs
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 530
Abstract: For most construction businesses, workers’ compensation is a significant expense. This article offers five time-tested tips for reducing or at least better controlling these costs, including classifying employees properly and developing a robust safety program.
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Connecting your succession plan to your estate plan
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 651
Abstract: For any business owner, contractors included, putting together a succession plan may seem like an overwhelming task. Often, among the most difficult things to conceptualize is precisely how to connect — and beneficially integrate — your succession plan with your estate plan. This article offers a few ideas: selling ownership shares, gifting them and creating a trust.
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Qualified improvement property – Beware of a potential tax trap
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 939
Abstract: The CARES Act fixed a technical glitch, retroactive to 2018, that deprived many taxpayers of 100% bonus depreciation for qualified improvement property (QIP). As this article explains, however, the law also set a dangerous tax trap for those that elect not to claim bonus depreciation. A sidebar looks at how due dates work for amended tax returns.
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How to account for forgivable PPP loans
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 423
Abstract: Since the PPP was rolled out as part of the CARES Act last spring, more than 5 million businesses, including some auto dealerships, have taken out PPP loans. These funds have helped businesses weather the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article addresses some of the questions about the accounting treatment of forgivable PPP loans.
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Succession planning – Does your dealership have a buy-sell agreement?
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 588
Abstract: A buy-sell agreement is a legal document that details succession plans if an owner is no longer capable of leading the business. A properly drafted agreement lays out the terms and conditions under which other owners or the business itself may purchase an owner’s interest in the event of his or her death or disability. This article explains reasons to have an agreement and how to fund it.
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“Secrets” of the balance sheet – Use the document to reveal your dealership’s true financial health
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 691
Abstract: Information on an auto dealership’s balance sheet can provide insight into the business’s overall financial picture. Among other things, management can use the balance sheet to determine its return on equity, debt-service and current ratios. It also can help spot unsubstantiated estimates, underreported expenses and even fraud. This article spotlights using the balance sheet to help monitor AR, manage inventory, and evaluate sources and uses of cash. A sidebar explains how rounded numbers on a balance sheet can be a red flag.
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3 ways DMS can help you work smarter
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 815
Abstract: The DMS is the backbone of an auto dealership’s operations. This article serves up three ways a dealership can use DMS features to improve its efficiency, customer service and bottom line. It discusses how to maximize CRM benefits, use text and emails more efficiently and take advantage of lesser-used DMS modules. A sidebar discusses getting the most out of the DOC reports generated by the DMS.