Management Under Construction

Preventing Legionella outbreaks requires careful attention to the design, operation, and maintenance of building water systems, including cooling towers and tepid water systems. Collaboration between design and maintenance teams, regular system flushing, and adherence to safety standards are essential to mitigate public health risks and ensure compliance. This conversation delves into the manageme...

Construction schedule delays are often caused by multiple factors, including handoffs, estimating errors, and inefficiencies, making effective communication and strong job site relationships essential. Prioritizing follow-through, maintaining quality over speed, and keeping the job site organized can improve productivity, collaboration, and overall project outcomes. In this episode of Management U...

Building strong trust-based relationships with suppliers and vendors, supported by education and accountability, is essential for successful construction projects. Understanding client needs, valuing expertise, and fostering long-term partnerships over transactional interactions lead to better outcomes and sustainable business success. In this episode of the Management Under Construction podcast,...

Building Information Modeling (BIM) enhances construction planning and coordination, but its success depends on effective execution, skilled detailers, and strong collaboration among contractors. While BIM can reduce rework and improve project visualization, its implementation involves costs, challenges, and evolving opportunities, including potential AI integration. In this episode, Brad and Dee...

Effective procurement management in construction requires thorough planning, clear communication, and careful attention to specifications to ensure project success. Leveraging expertise, tracking best practices, and managing risks—such as owner-furnished equipment—enhances efficiency and helps prevent costly mistakes. This conversation delves into the intricacies of procurement management within t...

Energy bills are affected by factors such as time-of-use rates, seasonal charges, and demand fees, making it important to understand how these elements contribute to overall costs. Monitoring usage, adjusting habits, and exploring alternative billing plans can help manage expenses and reduce energy bills effectively. In this episode, Dee Davis and Brad Wyant delve into the complexities of energy b...

Energy bills are shaped by technology, regulation, transmission losses, and the evolving dynamics of the power grid, including generation, distribution, and regional differences. Advancements in energy technology, decarbonization efforts, and informed consumer management are key to improving efficiency and controlling costs. In this episode, the hosts delve into the complexities of the power grid...

Successful real estate development relies on strategic portfolio management, careful consideration of ownership versus leasing, and attention to location, infrastructure, and local regulations. Interest rates, tenant needs, and evolving work trends influence investment decisions, making early engagement and adaptation essential for long-term commercial real estate success. In this episode of the M...

Construction management software faces challenges due to low industry investment, diverse project needs, and a disconnect between executives and field workers. Standardized or unified software solutions have the potential to enhance communication, productivity, and overall project efficiency in the construction industry. In this episode, Dee Davis and Brad Wyant delve into the complexities and fru...

Unintentional biases and flawed AI systems can significantly impact hiring decisions, often perpetuating discrimination rather than preventing it. Human judgment, bias training, and thoughtful integration of technology are essential to creating fair and equitable hiring practices. In this episode, Dee Davis and Brad Wyant discuss the complex issue of hiring discrimination, focusing on unintentiona...

Building genuine professional relationships through networking is essential for career advancement and uncovering opportunities that may not be publicly advertised. Investing time in both in-person and online networking, including platforms like LinkedIn, strengthens reputation, trust, and long-term career growth. In this episode of the Management Under Construction podcast, Dee Davis and Brad Wya...

The construction industry faces ongoing craft labor shortages influenced by retirements, geographical factors, and challenges in attracting young talent. Addressing these shortages requires improved leadership training, technical education, competitive pay, flexible work hours, and enhanced safety measures to retain and grow the workforce. This conversation delves into the ongoing craft labor shor...

Commissioning is essential to ensure that building systems function as intended, with early engagement of skilled agents helping to prevent costly issues. Effective communication, thorough understanding of project requirements, and readiness throughout the process are critical for successful commissioning and project performance. In this episode of Management Under Construction, hosts Brad Wyant a...

Meetings are most effective when structured with a clear purpose, streamlined discussions, and assigned action items to ensure accountability. Utilizing technology, tracking attendance, and continuously improving meeting practices enhances productivity and respects participants’ time. In this conversation, Brad Wyant and Dee Davis discuss the evolution of meetings throughout their careers, emphasi...

 Difficult conversations should be approached proactively, with preparation, awareness of personality styles, and strategies to navigate emotional responses. Addressing challenging discussions head-on helps prevent long-term issues, fosters healthier workplace relationships, and is essential for effective leadership. In this episode of the Management Under Construction podcast, Brad Wyant and...

Well-written RFPs are essential for construction project success, requiring clear communication, detailed documentation, and thorough consideration of schedules, logistics, and contract terms. Understanding the distinctions between RFPs and RFQs, including the use of incentives, penalties, and consultant support, helps ensure accurate bids and reduces potential conflicts. In this episode of Manage...

Change orders are a critical aspect of construction management, requiring accurate documentation, effective communication, and contingency planning to manage costs and protect contractor reputation. Building trust with owners, understanding cost estimation psychology, and maintaining strong relationships help navigate negotiations and minimize the impact of design issues and low bids. In this epis...

Fire stopping is essential for life safety in construction, requiring adherence to UL standards, ongoing education, and careful engineering judgments when standards do not directly apply. Collaboration among trades, effective communication, quality control, and selecting the right contractors help ensure compliance, reduce liability, and maintain high safety standards. In this episode of Managemen...

The construction industry faces challenges such as flat productivity, safety concerns, slow technology adoption, and fragmentation caused by specialization and adversarial relationships. Improving collaboration, adopting integrated contracting practices, and leveraging technologies like BIM can enhance efficiency, reduce hazards, and improve overall project outcomes. In this episode, Brad Wyant an...

Sustainability on construction job sites requires attention to cleanliness, waste management, and the design of facilities like job site trailers to support a positive work environment. Promoting clean, well-organized, and environmentally conscious job sites enhances worker safety, productivity, morale, and reflects core industry values. In this episode, Brad Wyant and Dee Davis discuss the often-...

  Business travel has evolved significantly, with rising costs, changing dining and tipping practices, and increasing attention to sustainability. Navigating travel effectively involves managing anxiety, personal preferences, and maximizing rewards while considering the economic and environmental impacts of trips. This conversation explores the multifaceted world of business travel, discussin...

Working with professional recruiters can provide access to unposted opportunities, help navigate a competitive job market, and connect candidates with employers seeking stability and cultural fit. Successful hiring and job searching require clear communication, relationship-building, understanding company culture, and leveraging both technology and human interaction for optimal outcomes. Have you...

ESG reporting means Environmental, Social and Governance, it is the way that companies that can quantify their level of responsibility to their shareholders. In this episode we explain what ESG reporting is and how we may see this grow in the future. We also examine the pros and cons of ESG reporting, its impacts to business and the environment, including examining the question - can you take envi...

Effective leadership requires managing personal stress and modeling self-care, as this directly impacts performance, relationships, and team dynamics. Recognizing stress in others, providing supportive environments, and fostering open conversations help improve well-being, empathy, and overall organizational effectiveness. Isn't it our responsibility as leaders to take care of our people? One of t...

Replacing a “sink or swim” culture with structured training programs equips employees for success, improves engagement, and increases retention. Investing in employee development leads to higher profitability, revenue growth, and a positive workplace culture that attracts and retains talent. In Episode 9 Dee & Brad explore how your company can be 24% more profitable - you heard me! When we thr...