Just Say “No” – You May Get Thanked
Executive Summary. A word that is very undervalued by Owners is the word “No.” It has tremendous power and, although perceived as controversial and adversarial, it can be the best thing an Owner can say to a Contractor. Just make it timely!...
What’s a Form Ratio?
Acknowledgment. First of all, thanks to my friend Chris Souder at Cal State Chico – I based this article off of a conversation with him plus his article entitled Can Using Form Ratios Improve the Accuracy of Estimating Structural Concrete?...
Don’t Get Sick: Post-Topping Out Syndrome (PTS)
Executive Summary. A major milestone to a building project is its “topping out”. This can be the beginning of losing a great project, so when you get there make sure to keep your foot on the accelerator!...
My Old Guy PhD Program Begins – Entry No. 1
Executive Summary. Going back to graduate school for a master’s degree at age 25 felt old. What’s it like to start a graduate program at 53 years old? Read about the first steps taken, the admission process, and what’s coming in my first semester this fall. Maybe...
What is “Delegated Design”?
Executive Summary. In the traditional design/bid/build world, sometimes a portion of the project is overtly not designed. The final design of this particular part of the work is left to the Contractor (along with the construction of same). It’s not uncommon – it’s...
What’s that High Track Dozer All About?
Executive Summary. Almost unique to the business (Caterpillar taking the lead) is the elevated sprocket design dozer. Probably more commonly known as the high track dozer. https://open.spotify.com/episode/7fWLwBnMlFNhKV01P5smRL?si=I6ALp2IDQ-mIeXQzZ67-aw High track...