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Showing 1–16 of 326 results
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6 hot trends in construction apps
March / April 2021
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 429
Abstract: Thanks to mobile technology, contractors can store vital project information on their smart phones and tablets for easy access and sharing on the go. With the understanding that any technology purchase (even a free download) should be thoroughly researched and carefully considered, this article identifies six of the hottest trends in construction apps right now.
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Managing an offsite construction project
March / April 2021
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 526
Abstract: Given recent events related to COVID-19, “offsite construction” appears to hold more promise than ever for the building industry. However, managing one of these projects calls for a high level of coordination among stakeholders and a seamless workflow from the front office to the fabrication facility to the jobsite. This article examines some of the finer points of managing an offsite construction job.
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Do you need a refresher on the latest details of the PPP?
March / April 2021
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 671
Abstract: For contractors, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has been a double-edged sword: It’s provided helpful funds but also been difficult to manage. With the passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) late last year, both edges of the sword got sharper. This article provides a refresher on some key details of the CAA’s impact on the PPP.
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Real estate ownership – The ins and outs of CAP rate for contractors
March / April 2021
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 907
Abstract: Many contractors build and build but never get to the easy part of construction: owning that well-built piece of property and collecting rent. Commercial rental properties with established tenants tend to be more stable investments than residential rental properties. This article examines how to use capitalization rates to establish commercial owner-lessor profitability for a purchasing decision. A sidebar suggests ways to get started on buying such properties.
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Parametric insurance seeks to bridge COVID-19 gap
January / February 2021
Newsletter: Contractor
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
January / February 2021
Newsletter: Contractor
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
January / February 2021
Newsletter: Contractor
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
January / February 2021
Newsletter: Contractor
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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Is it time to automate equipment warranty tracking?
November / December 2020
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 429
Abstract: Staying on top of equipment warranty requirements and expiration dates is an important task in the construction business. Yet contractors who maintain multiple vehicles and pieces of equipment often struggle to track their various warranties, missing out on valuable savings. This article discusses the concept of automating the process with advanced software.
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6 factors to evaluate before bidding on an infrastructure project
November / December 2020
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 555
Abstract: As of this writing, the construction industry continues to await passage of a federal infrastructure bill. Some states, however, have been pushing ahead with initiatives of their own. This article explores six factors that construction companies should evaluate before bidding on a public infrastructure project.
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Heading off construction disputes at the pass
November / December 2020
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 653
Abstract: In the Old West, the best way to catch a bunch of outlaws hightailing it out of town with their rucksacks full of loot was to head them off at the pass. A common culprit of “loot” disappearing from the bank accounts of many construction companies is disputes with project owners. This article explains some ways contractors can take a page from the cowboys of old and head off owner disputes at the pass.
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Construction accounting today – FASB addresses contract revenue recognition
November / December 2020
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 921
Abstract: This article discusses recent guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board. The guidance seeks to help businesses, including construction companies, comply with the latest version of Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). A sidebar notifies readers of an extended effective date for ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842).
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4 ways construction teams can work more remotely
September / October 2020
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 448
Abstract: Contractors can’t work from home, but they can benefit from technology that supports remote collaboration and safer distancing to address COVID-19 and other threats. This article looks at four technology solutions that can help team members stay more separated but still connected, including videoconferencing and construction cameras/drones.
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Now’s a good time to re-evaluate employee benefits
September / October 2020
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 544
Abstract: In difficult economic times, cost cutting becomes a necessity — and employee benefits are an easy target. Yet one of the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic has been the value and importance of benefits. This article explores various low-cost options that contractors should consider, such as Health Savings Accounts, employee assistance plans and SEP-IRAs.
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Enhancing preconstruction to protect workers and the bottom line
September / October 2020
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 669
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic slowdown have made careful planning of every job essential. More stringent safety protocols and, in many instances, a scarcity of projects mean a much slimmer margin of error. This article reviews some key aspects of preconstruction.
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Year-end tax planning – Depreciation deductions remain viable
September / October 2020
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 956
Abstract: Like so many aspects of 2020, year-end tax planning will be different this year. Contractors should review tax-related legislation passed in response to the COVID-19 crisis, but some tried-and-true strategies remain viable. This article discusses Section 179 expensing, “bonus” depreciation and cost segregation studies. A sidebar reminds readers to manage cash flow independently of tax deductions.