On-Site
Showing 193–208 of 242 results
-
The Contractor’s Corner – What’s wrong with my project forecasts?
Fall 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 438
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” takes a look at the case of a contractor who frequently finds that project managers’ forecasts end up being way off the mark. As a result, the company either has to work twice as hard to get the job back in line with the estimate or simply lose money. The article shows how to improve forecasting accuracy by knowing what information to track and how to track it.
-
Don’t let workers’ compensation costs get the upper hand
Fall 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 644
Abstract: When profit margins are uncomfortably tight, as they’ve been for many contractors in recent years, a sizable injury claim (or series of claims) can be devastating. This article takes a look at the key elements of workers’ compensation claim management and some ways contractors can keep these costs from getting the upper hand. It discusses the importance of “experience modification ratings” and offers ways to create a safer work environment.
-
3 reasons contractors should consider cloud computing
Fall 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 427
Abstract: Today, there are a variety of reasons for contractors to consider “cloud computing” — whereby they access part or all of their servers, networks and, most notably, software applications via an Internet-based service, as opposed to buying and hosting them themselves. This article offers three of the most compelling reasons to look into cloud computing — and one caveat.
-
Directing your attention to indirect costs – Their profitability impact is considerable
Fall 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 916
Abstract: The potential impact of indirect costs is considerable. If contractors don’t stay on top of them, they can creep up over time and drag down profitability. This article lists examples of indirect costs, and how their treatment for tax purposes depends on the nature of a contract and the company’s accounting method. It also offers suggestions for reducing indirect costs. A sidebar discusses two depreciation-related tax breaks that are particularly valuable right now — and scheduled to expire at year end.
-
The Contractor’s Corner – How can we tighten up our insurance claims process?
Summer 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 441
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” examines the plight of a construction company that, following a series of natural disasters, felt that they’d lost money on soft costs that their adjuster had successfully disputed. This article offers suggestions on how to tighten up the claims process.
-
Paperless projects harbor both perks and pitfalls
Summer 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 440
Abstract: Most contractors would probably be more interested in a paperless job site than an all-digital office — because that’s where they spend most of their time. Indeed, paperless projects are possible, but they harbor both perks and pitfalls. This article shows how a Web-based project management system can tie together documents from the project owner, the architect and any subcontractors, enabling the contractor to improve organization and efficiency. But the transition involves time, expense, and buy-in from the parties involved.
-
Confronting the specter of an IRS audit
Summer 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 651
Abstract: An IRS audit, though not entirely preventable, is more manageable than one might think. Construction companies are document-oriented businesses. So if they manage those documents properly, they’ll likely be well on their way to defending whatever tax breaks they’ve claimed. This article discusses topics such as the types of records to keep and the importance of properly classifying employees and independent contractors.
-
Don’t give up on going green – Sustainable building remains a viable force in construction
Summer 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 891
Abstract: Although it has certainly been affected by the economy and slower construction markets in many areas, green building is still right here and doing just fine. So it’s important for contractors to stay familiar with the topic and be cognizant of its benefits and risks. This article discusses requirements a project must meet to be qualified as sustainable, and the financial and reputational benefits that can follow. A sidebar discusses current events in green building.
-
The Contractor’s Corner – How can I keep debt from sneaking up on me?
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 423
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” looks at the dilemma of a contractor who worries about encroaching debt even when work is plentiful. Construction businesses are particularly sensitive to cash flow fluctuations, so giving up too much flexibility to debt could really hurt. This article explains how contractors need to prioritize debt, paying particular attention to their debt-to-equity ratio. It also discusses options to bankruptcy when debt becomes overwhelming.
-
The state of your construction company – Benchmarking can help you determine where you stand
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 648
Abstract: To get and stay ahead, contractors must continually focus on getting better. One way to do so is to regularly undertake the process of benchmarking their company’s performance against either its previous results or those of other contractors who provide comparable services. This article examines the differences between internal and external benchmarking and how to choose the specific benchmarks that have the most effect on the company. It’s then a matter of assembling the right data to be measured.
-
Manage subcontractor risk with the right software
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 416
Abstract: Subcontractors are a calculated risk, so it’s imperative to gather and track data pertinent to ensuring effective subcontractor management. The good news is that there is software available to help automate the process. This article discusses the tasks that specialized software can perform, with the result that contractors can improve cash flow and the timing of payments, and ensure they’re not paying subs who haven’t fulfilled a job’s administrative requirements.
-
2011 tax planning – Keeping your eye on the ball as the season heats up
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1037
Abstract: Whatever contractors do in the coming year will have a big effect on their 2011 tax bill. So it’s important that they keep their eye on the ball as the months progress — particularly in light of tax law changes that were passed last year. This article discusses these changes as they affect bonus depreciation, the Section 179 expensing deduction, and which of these options might provide a bigger benefit in a particular situation. Several other tax breaks are mentioned, while a sidebar shows that it might still be possible to qualify for a retention credit even though the HIRE Act of 2010 hasn’t been extended.
-
The Contractor’s Corner – Many subcontractors struggle with surplus of idle workers
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 435
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” discusses a contractor who, facing a dearth of projects, is thinking about laying off employees. But this article offers possible options, such as determining the true costs of both active and idle workers, instituting pay cuts or job-sharing programs, or even “loaning” employees to friendly competitors.
-
Take it step by step – The basics of savvy succession planning
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 642
Abstract: Sooner or later, every construction company owner must relinquish control of his or her business. If the owner doesn’t want to sell the business to an outside party, it’s essential to find a family member or employee who can be trusted and believed in. This article shows the basics of savvy succession planning. It describes how to identify a leader and provide for heirs who won’t be involved in the business, and looks at issues involving management structure, buy-sell agreements and estate planning. It also mentions the importance of the owner finding him- or herself a new role after stepping down.
-
A different animal – Federal projects bring a variety of challenges
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 889
Abstract: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “stimulus act”) appropriated billions of dollars in construction spending. Only now, however, are many of these projects finally arriving. But federal contracting warrants some careful preparation. These jobs are a far different animal from their privately funded counterparts. This article explains the types of competitors involved, the bidding process, and the tax ramifications. A sidebar points out that there are also ethical requirements involved.
-
3 areas of fraud-proofing to focus on
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 429
Abstract: As the economy continues to challenge everyone, the motivation for some employees to steal isn’t hard to understand. One way to divide and potentially conquer fraudsters is to focus on the three primary areas where fraud typically can occur: in the office, during banking transactions, and on the job site. This article offers tips.