How can 4D CAD building modelling improve various phases of projects? It can help construction pros, engineers, and architects visualize scheduling and improve coordination between various departments and entities. It can also advance documentation and communication. A review of 4D modelling on Archinect.com addresses some potential limitations to 4D. One is the necessity of…(Read More)
Nearly 40 percent of women with engineering degrees either leave the field after five years or never work in it at all. The research was presented at the American Psychological Association’s annual conference. “Among women who left less than five years ago, two-thirds said they pursued better opportunities in other fields while a…(Read More)
The head of the New York Building Congress predicts construction spending in New York City will jump 10 percent in 2014 to $31.5 billion. It would be the first time construction spending has exceeded $30 billion since 2010. Richard Anderson, president of the New York Building Congress, says there is a lot of confidence…(Read More)
Employers will want to keep an eye on this story. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is mulling over new rules that to prohibit companies from discouraging or penalizing employees from reporting injuries and illnesses. That includes threatening to fire or discipline them. TheHill.com reports that the public has 60 days to comment on…(Read More)
Construction companies are digging deeper into their pockets when purchasing materials and supplies. There have been fractional increases these past few months, which has gotten the attention of Chief Economist Anirban Basu of the Associated Builders and Contractors. Prices may continue to rise—albeit modestly—through the rest of 2014. Materials including softwood lumber, crude…(Read More)
Managing mega construction projects can bring mega complexities and mega headaches. The secret to keeping problems to a minimal is early planning and superior project management. This post on AreaDevelopment.com offers several recommendations when managing huge infrastructure initiatives or complex plant development projects. PMs must assign project tasks early, choose the right project delivery…(Read More)
Germany has been struggling with failing infrastructure and World War Two-era construction materials that are compromising older buildings and homes. Now, researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute are pioneering the development of small flying robots for the purpose of inspecting buildings for damage, explains Mark Howe, who writes about construction and energy issues on Sourceable…(Read More)
It’s not the winning lottery ticket, but folks working in construction will likely be earning a bit more money in the coming months. Buck Consultants, a pay adviser, predicts that there will be raises for all construction workers, including those involved in commercial and industrial buildings, averaging more than 3 percent for a second…(Read More)
Industry professionals who have IPhones and IPads will want to learn more about the latest apps in the market. From GoBIM to FingerCAD, these tools will likely impress you, and save valuable time and resources while on the job. http://construction.about.com/od/New-Software/tp/A-Selection-Of-The-Best-Iphone-Ipad…(Read More)
Extroverts may fare better in job interviews but there’s also a strong case for hiring introverts. “The value of the introvert in the workplace is immeasurable. They are patient. They dig deep and only speak when there is something of value to say,” maintains Krista Williams, a strategic director at Seven Step RPO. “They…(Read More)