On-Site
Showing 177–192 of 242 results
-
The Contractor’s Corner — Should I control my own insurance program?
Fall 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 512
Abstract: A contractor controlled insurance program (CCIP) can enable construction company owners to more closely manage how a given project is covered. But implementing a CCIP is a big step for any general contractor. Whether it would be worthwhile depends on a variety of factors. This article explains how a CCIP works and examines the risks (higher deductibles and premiums) vs. benefits (cost control and increased efficiency).
-
Building your construction company’s online reputation
Fall 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 511
Abstract: Every type of business today has to deal with the Internet, and construction companies are no exception. They not only need to protect their online reputation — they need to build it, as well. This article shows where to look to find customer reviews, and how to respond if they’re negative. It also explains how to upgrade a website and take advantage of social media.
-
Start finishing early to win the completion game
Fall 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 721
Abstract: To be in the best possible position to close out a job, it’s necessary for a construction company to start finishing early. This article shows that the process begins with ensuring that all parties agree to the contract specifications from the very beginning. Further planning steps are necessary roughly one month before substantial completion is reached, and the completion of the project calls for conducting the punch-list walk-through, training staff on the building’s equipment, handling documentation — and even writing thank-you letters.
-
Help wanted, help available — You have options for finding skilled labor
Fall 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 999
Abstract: Contractors have options for finding skilled workers right away — and a related tax break may await. This article looks at the Work Opportunity tax credit for contractors who hire veterans in 2012, and lists additional labor networks it may be possible to tap. It also discusses longer-term solutions, such as quality customer service, positive publicity and educational outreach. But it’s also important to vet potential hires; a sidebar lists five important safeguards to implement when hiring.
-
The Contractor’s Corner — How do I stop nickel-and-dime fraud?
Summer 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 465
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” is concerned with the kind of “little” fraud — a few small tools here, a mileage overage there — that can quickly add up. The emphasis is on creating a fraud-averse culture that encompasses employees and managers alike.
-
Avoiding the common mistakes of construction project management
Summer 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 727
Abstract: A construction company’s profitability weighs in large part on how effectively it manages its jobs. It must maximize efficiency, minimize waste and seize every opportunity to build its bottom line (without rubbing owners the wrong way). Unfortunately, many things can go wrong. This article looks at some of the common mistakes in construction project management — such as misjudging risk, ignoring key financial ratios, and failing to establish clear lines of communication — and how to avoid them.
-
Green builders, rejoice: Here come the apps
Summer 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 522
Abstract: For construction companies already working on some LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) jobs or that may seriously consider one in the near future, good news arrived late last year: In November 2011, the U.S. Green Building Council launched its App Lab as part of its LEED Automation Program. This article shows how the App Lab — a searchable catalog of third-party apps enriched with LEED data — can help contractors (and others) with a variety of tasks related to a sustainable job.
-
Tangible changes — Revised IRS regs address deducting vs. capitalizing property
Summer 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1070
Abstract: Early in 2012, the IRS released its much-anticipated revised regulations on the tax treatment of expenditures related to tangible property. The regulations address when expenses related to tangible property can be fully deducted in the current year (which creates an immediate tax benefit) vs. when they must be capitalized (which creates a series of smaller deductions over a period of years). This article discusses changes to the definition of “materials and supplies,” the distinction between “repaired” vs. “improved” property, and how to handle “functionally interdependent” building components. A sidebar discusses an exception to the capitalization requirement for certain property acquisitions.
-
The Contractor’s Corner — How can we better control fuel costs?
Spring 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 469
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” offers suggestions for managing fuel costs. It discusses specific preventive measures but also looks at the advisability of striking a price protection agreement with a fuel vendor.
-
4 hot features of the latest construction accounting software
Spring 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 481
Abstract: Running a construction company without accounting software may seem next to impossible these days. So, those who have a construction accounting package in place need to keep an eye on whether it’s becoming outdated. This article examines four hot features of the latest software that may provide incentive for an upgrade.
-
Boost productivity without breaking the bank — Considering on-the-job incentives
Spring 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 722
Abstract: When looking to boost productivity, it’s natural to want to incentivize workers. But should a contractor offer incentives to project crews in today’s uncertain economy? Not without serious thought, of course. But if doing so will improve timeliness, the long-term results could pay off. This article looks at some issues to consider. It discusses setting goals and determining the kinds of incentives to be offered, and providing written explanation and regular monitoring.
-
Managing payroll taxes: Not easy, but important
Spring 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 928
Abstract: This past February, Congress extended the reduction of the employee portion of the Social Security tax on earned income. The cut does apply to employees, not employers. But, for construction company owners, using the development as inspiration to review payroll tax management is still a good idea. This article examines which workers are taxable employees (vs. independent contractors) and what kinds of compensation are subject to payroll taxes. It also discusses creating or formalizing an “accountable” tool-reimbursement plan to help manage taxes. A sidebar lists the four major taxes that fall under the generic term “payroll tax.”
-
The Contractor’s Corner — Should we throw our hardhat into the disaster recovery ring?
Winter 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 493
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” discusses the concerns of a contractor who wonders if it would be best to augment business by expanding into disaster recovery. The article states that it can be beneficial— but there are many provisos that must be taken into account to decide whether the benefits are likely to outweigh the costs.
-
Business valuations are for contractors, too
Winter 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 744
Abstract: Many associate the term “business valuation” with the sale of a professional sports team or the unfortunate task of handling a deceased owner’s affairs. But there are many reasons for a construction company to work with its financial advisor and a qualified appraiser to estimate the company’s current value. This article lists several of these reasons, and describes three primary approaches that appraisers use to conduct a business valuation. It also mentions other documents that must be gathered if a sale of the company is in the offing.
-
Protecting your construction company’s mobile technology
Winter 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 499
Abstract: Mobile technology — such as laptops, tablets and smart phones — allows contractors to generate estimates, review job plans and store important documents. This is valuable data that can easily fall into the hands of a thief or a competitor. Because of such dangers, it’s essential that companies ensure that their mobile technology is protected. This article discusses safety procedures, including laptop-tracking software.
-
Employment update — IRS offers truce in worker classification battle
Winter 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 962
Abstract: Among the most long-standing battles between the IRS and employers — including construction businesses — is the classification of employees vs. independent contractors. This article discusses why this has been such an issue, and shows how the new Voluntary Classification Settlement Program (VCSP) allows some businesses to escape harsh penalties if they voluntarily reclassify independent contractors as employees. A sidebar lists three major factors of worker classification.