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Showing 33–48 of 398 results
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Is it time to hire a construction technologist?
November / December 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 444
Abstract: Construction is all about bricks, lumber and usually a bulldozer or two, right? Not entirely. Technology now plays a huge role in how contractors operate. So much so that some companies are adding a management-level position called a construction technologist. This article explores the purpose of the job, as well as the potential advantages and risks of hiring someone to fill it.
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Occupational fraud continues to hit construction hard
November / December 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 535
Abstract: Construction companies are no strangers to fraud. The industry has struggled for decades to overcome an image sullied by kickbacks and other illegal activities. While its reputation has improved, the construction sector still suffers from a high percentage of fraud. This article reviews the results of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners’ “Occupational Fraud 2022: A Report to the Nations,” and offers some antifraud tips.
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Managing your exposure to sales and use taxes
November / December 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 672
Abstract: Most construction companies pride themselves on their mobility. Within reason, if they can get to a project, they’ll bid on it. When a construction company crosses state lines, however, sales and use taxes may come into play. This article reviews some important points related to this form of taxation, including a landmark legal decision by the U.S. Supreme Court. South Dakota v. Wayfair, No. 17–494, June 21, 2018 (U.S. Supreme Court)
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Build up your defenses – 9 cash-flow strategies to combat inflation
November / December 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 920
Abstract: Remember when the term “high inflation” was generally only associated with the 1970s and early 1980s? No longer, as rising prices have been an issue both nationally and globally this year. This article suggests nine inflation-fighting, cash-flow-boosting strategies for construction company owners to consider. A sidebar sings the praises of cash-flow forecasting as part of sound financial management.
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Becoming more capable at data capture
September / October 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 449
Abstract: Construction might not be as data driven as some other industries, but contractors still process plenty of information. That’s why “data capture” has become a critical yet often overlooked capability of construction companies. This article explains what data capture is and offers some tips on getting better at it.
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BABA guidance addresses infrastructure projects
September / October 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 544
Abstract: Earlier this year, the federal Office of Management and Budget published guidance regarding the implementation of the Build America, Buy America provisions of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Construction companies intending to pursue federal infrastructure jobs should take note. This article summarizes some important points of the guidance, including key definitions, how materials must be sourced and the availability of waivers.
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Need better benefits? Look into a pooled employer retirement plan
September / October 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 670
Abstract: Just like any other type of business, construction companies typically need to offer a solid benefits package to keep up in the race for talent in today’s tight job market. However, the cash-flow strains common to the construction industry make this difficult. This article discusses the promise of a new type of retirement benefits plan: pooled employer plans, which are a variation on multiple employer plans.
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Act now to maximize depreciation-related tax breaks for 2022
September / October 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 922
Abstract: Current tax law allows two valuable depreciation-related deductions on purchases of equipment, tools, machinery and other assets essential to construction companies. But contractors will need to move fast to make the most of them. This article discusses the latest details on the Section 179 expensing election and bonus depreciation. A sidebar notes that, under some circumstances, construction companies might want to skip these tax breaks.
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6 ways to fortify your cybersecurity defenses
July / August 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 449
Abstract: Construction companies of any size are a prime target for cybercriminals. And recent events have only elevated the threat level. This article suggests six ways that contractors can fortify their defenses, including educating employees, keeping software updated and exploring the need for cybersecurity insurance.
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What is bonding capacity, really?
July / August 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 546
Abstract: Contractors are urged to manage their financials carefully to preserve and even increase their bonding capacities. But sometimes construction company owners lose sight of what really goes into bonding capacity. This article discusses the three Cs of bonding and suggests some ways to boost capacity.
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Proper accounting for change orders makes all the difference
July / August 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 638
Abstract: For contractors, change orders can be both disruptive and profitable. It all depends on how well a construction company manages the documentation and approval process. This article addresses the critical matter of properly handling change orders from an accounting perspective.
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No more drama – Build stability and value into your succession plan
July / August 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 938
Abstract: One need look no further than the hit TV show “Succession” to see how the lack of a succession plan can tear a family and business asunder. Although the show is obviously dramatized, the dangers of failing to think ahead about leadership change are anything but fictional for construction businesses. This article discusses several ways to preempt the drama and put a solid succession plan in place.
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Are you ready for the future of building design?
May / June 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 447
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic and climate change are profoundly impacting building design. Contractors should adjust their expectations and upgrade their skill sets accordingly. This article describes some of the general changes that are likely forthcoming as well as some sector-specific trends.
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Protect yourself with careful project documentation
May / June 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 547
Abstract: Meticulous recordkeeping plays a key role in running a successful construction business. The proof of any project, and a strong legal defense, is in the paper trail. This article describes some of the most important documents that contractors should retain.
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Apprenticeship programs – Building a brighter future for the industry
May / June 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 674
Abstract: Although the skilled labor shortage that has plagued the construction industry for years has been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, hope is far from lost. Construction remains a vibrant and essential industry that can attract strong job candidates. This article discusses how contractors can help themselves, and perhaps mitigate the skilled labor shortage, by establishing an apprenticeship program.
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The finer points of joint ventures
May / June 2022
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 886
Abstract: As construction season heats up nationwide, contractors could encounter opportunities to engage in joint ventures with other construction companies. These opportunities can be fruitful but pose risks and complications as well. This article reviews the advantages and risks of joint ventures, as well as the importance of a joint venture agreement. A sidebar examines the three typical accounting methods for joint ventures.