Business Management

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the ability of internet-enabled devices to communicate independently. What that means for the construction and service contracting industries is unfolding in a variety of opportunities and challenges. This will have a transformative effect on these sectors of our economy, and smart contractors need to be aware of the […]

Are you ready to add a new line of work or a new market for your existing line of work? Market opportunities can present themselves in a variety of ways: a customer could ask your company to expand geographically; an employee might offer up specific skills; or a new market in need of service can have […]

This 67-page publication provides detailed background on research completed for this project. It identifies the scope, sponsorship and funding by the New Horizons Foundation. The project was the product of discussions among contractors seeking to assist others who may be interested in a chance to grow. As a result of those discussions, a request for […]

Most company leaders make market entry decisions once or twice in their careers; not enough to build experience. This 19-page publication adds the real experiences of others to understand the pitfalls and risks associated with a new market decision. This document relates to the 10-Step Decision Making Framework for New Market Opportunities. In fact, reviewing […]

This paper includes a list of best practices to identify customer needs and satisfaction and outlines a cost-effective process to create a customer-centered culture. The white paper was written for HVAC and sheet metal contractors by Tom Schleifer, an author with experience and instant credibility in the industry.

The 2016 Futures Study Update begins with a review and analysis of the 2012 study with a focus on the viability of the predictions outlined in the earlier report. The publication offers a broad environmental sweep, an examination of unanticipated changes, and validation or modifications to the 2012 implications and emerging trends. For this update, […]

This white paper helps HVAC and sheet metal contractors use marketing and business development more strategically. It also provides an approach on how to create a plan, implement it, measure the results and, ultimately, create a long-term plan to build customer relationships and backlogs. In a separate document, the Business Development Market Planning Guide, contractors […]

This white paper describes and analyzes contractor risks associated with a recovering economy and market, including the following Threatening Recovery Issues: Aggressive Pricing Continues Growth Creates Cash Flow Needs Financing Will Be Essential Banks’ Reaction Undefined Sureties’ Reaction Unclear Labor Shortages Labor Skill Level Declines Material Shortages Labor and Material Inflations

Strategic Thinking is a blueprint for contractors seeking to use the Futures Study to improve their position as the industry recovers and stabilizes. Strategic thinking should not be confused with strategic planning, but the two are related. Strategic thinking involves the generation and application of unique business insights and opportunities intended to create competitive advantage […]