ConstructConnect Blog

Lean construction is based on a simple concept: create value for the client and minimize waste. Implementing lean thinking into construction can be difficult because it requires adopting a different mindset and approach to construction from traditional methods.

As a construction professional, it’s probably difficult to imagine no longer using paper in your daily activities. We’re talking no more hard copies of plans and specs, invoices, contracts, time sheets, punch lists, contracts or bids.

It’s been about five years since the construction industry started its slow recovery from the Great Recession. Flash forward to today and the industry has rebounded nicely with construction spending at an all-time high and demand for construction is strong. The only problem? The industry is still dealing with a skills gap and labor shortage caused by layoffs and a mass exodus of skilled workers who retired or chose to seek greener pastures when the economy tanked.

When hurricanes or natural disasters hit an area, efforts turn to disaster relief and cleanup and calls go out to companies that specialize in these areas. The Coast Guard is called, rescue missions are deployed, and The American Red Cross dispatches volunteers to begin making sense of the chaos.

Construction equipment theft continues to be a major concern for business owners. Stealing construction equipment is a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for thieves, especially on unsecured construction sites. Less than 25% of stolen construction equipment is recovered each year.

One of the things I love about the construction industry is that it's filled with so many honest, hardworking people. One of the things I find frustrating about it though is that a lot of those same people often avoid technology that could make their jobs so much easier and more efficient. I see this mistake most frequently when it comes to their marketing efforts.

While many people celebrate the push for legalization of marijuana, the reality of marijuana legalization is complicated for employers. Under federal law, marijuana is still considered a Schedule 1 drug, which indicates that regulators consider it to have a high potential for abuse, no agreed-upon medical purpose, and insufficient safety standards for use under medical supervision. As a result, even in states where both medical and recreational use of marijuana has been legalized, employers’ legal responsibility to ensure a safe workplace puts all companies in complicated legal positions.

Do you remember the last job you lost to a competitor? I remember mine vividly because, despite my best efforts, I simply could not convince my prospect to choose my company. No matter how much evidence I presented, they remained unswayed.

For construction professionals, one of the biggest benefits of cloud-based software and storage is mobility. Being able to manage any aspect of your business anywhere you have an internet connection and a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet or laptop is vital these days.

After a three-month delay, OSHA’s Respirable Crystalline Silica in Construction Standard (1926.1153) went into effect on September 23. The delay was so the agency could develop educational and guidance materials regarding the new rules and to provide assistance to companies help them become compliant.