Construction Industry Advisor
CIA
Showing 1–16 of 242 results
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How can contractors use wearable technology?
Summer 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 425
Abstract: Construction companies are increasingly using wearable technology to improve the building process. The term refers to a wide variety of hands-free, internet-connected electronic devices that can be worn directly on the body or embedded in hard hats, boots, vests or other gear. This article describes just a few uses of wearables in a construction context.
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8 tips for managing your supply chain
Summer 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 530
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic and other world events have triggered or worsened supply chain risks and shortcomings affecting many industries, including construction. So, it’s critical for contractors to actively manage their supply chains. This article offers eight tips, including being transparent with customers and looking into helpful software.
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Prepare for project delays with savvy financial strategies
Summer 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 656
Abstract: No matter how well planned, construction projects don’t always go as anticipated. A job that looks sunny on paper can turn into a hot mess if it experiences serious delays. This article discusses how recognizing common risks and preparing savvy financial strategies can help a construction company avoid disaster if a serious slowdown occurs.
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New lease accounting standard is here (for real this time)
Summer 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 918
Abstract: Although its implementation has been long delayed, a new accounting standard applicable to leases under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles is now in effect. The changes could affect financial ratios that lenders and sureties use to evaluate a construction company. This article explores the details of the new lease accounting standard. A sidebar urges contractors to look for “embedded leases” that they might be unaware of.
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5 tips for avoiding profit fade
Spring 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 435
Abstract: Profit fade can be a serious problem for construction companies. As the name suggests, profit fade simply means a decline in expected gross profits over the course of a project. This article suggests five ways to avoid this costly issue, including monitoring work in progress and building in contract protections.
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Could you qualify for an energy-efficient tax deduction?
Spring 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 522
Abstract: Section 179D of the tax code allows a deduction for the cost of energy-efficient improvements to new or existing commercial buildings, as well as certain residential rental buildings. This article explains how construction companies might be able to qualify for the deduction, even though the tax break is primarily intended for property owners.
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Sizing up a public infrastructure project
Spring 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 669
Abstract: The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act was signed into law on November 15, 2021. It represents a veritable mountain of opportunities for construction companies in the months and years ahead. This article offers up some tips on how contractors can assess whether one of these jobs is right for them.
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Sales and use taxes: An ongoing challenge
Spring 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 935
Abstract: The U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision of South Dakota v. Wayfair is almost four years old. That makes now a good time for contractors to review their sales and use tax obligations. This article discusses the concept of nexus, notes some construction specifics and assesses the ultimate impact of Wayfair. A sidebar looks at the potential benefits of a reverse sales-and-use tax audit.
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Pump up tax savings with the fuel credit
Winter 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 445
Abstract: Construction companies that wish to reduce their tax bills or increase their refunds shouldn’t overlook the fuel tax credit. Many contractors likely qualify for it and it’s relatively easy to calculate. This article explores the potential savings and how to go about claiming this often-overlooked tax break.
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Combating the skilled labor shortage
Winter 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 536
Abstract: Even before COVID-19, construction companies were facing a scarcity of skilled workers. The pandemic has only exacerbated the problem. This article suggests four ways to combat the skilled labor shortage, including leveraging technology and sprucing up one’s employer brand.
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Why contractors should consider mediation
Winter 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 663
Abstract: When a construction dispute arises, among the first thoughts that may come to mind is, “Oh no, is this going to wind up in court?” Sometimes that eventuality is unavoidable, but there’s often a much easier and even productive way to resolve the matter: mediation. This article explores why contractors shouldn’t fear the mediation process.
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Construction accounting – 5 ways to optimize your financial reporting
Winter 2022
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 924
Abstract: In today’s challenging environment, a construction company’s relationships with its lenders and surety are more important than ever. One way to enhance these relationships is to provide financial statements (and other documentation) that are complete, accurate and timely. This article discusses five ways to optimize the financial reporting process. A sidebar looks at why contractors should consider comparative financial statements.
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Adding value with life-cycle cost analysis
Fall 2021
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 433
Abstract: Life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) seeks to estimate a construction project’s overall cost of ownership over its “useful life cycle.” It then strives to identify design or construction alternatives that will minimize costs over that life cycle. This article explains how contractors can play a role in LCCA and, in doing so, give themselves a competitive edge.
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7 coping strategies for volatile steel prices
Fall 2021
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 535
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted steel supply and demand throughout the world, leading to widespread price increases. This article suggests seven strategies that contractors can use to cope with the price volatility, including adjusting bidding approaches and adding price escalation clauses to contracts.
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Is the research credit within your reach?
Fall 2021
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 663
Abstract: Many construction company owners might assume that a tax credit related to research and development is out of their reach. Au contraire: Contractors can and have claimed the research credit for improving construction techniques or developing industry-related software. This article provides a refresher on this potentially valuable tax break.
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Put some PEP in your step – A new retirement plan option to consider
Fall 2021
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 931
Abstract: A generous benefits package that includes a robust retirement plan can be a powerful recruiting tool for construction companies. But providing cost-effective, high-quality benefits isn’t easy. This article takes an in-depth look at a new retirement plan option: pooled employer plans (PEPs). A sidebar warns that, though PEPs relieve employers of many benefits-related risks, some fiduciary responsibilities remain.