The Capitol Cove complex in Providence, R.I. was repositioned, changing from 96 private condos to Johnson & Wales University student housing. |
22. Commercial Properties Repositioned for University USE
Six previously stalled Value Place hotels are being completed by Englewood Construction’s new distressed property division. |
23. Distressed Property Division Targets Stalled Projects
24. Bundle Communications and Data Services for Major Savings
We've all seen the TV commercials for AT&T and Comcast selling the cost advantages of bundling phone, cable, and Internet services. Shane Ketterman, network engineer and administrator with ZGF Architects, applied similar logic when searching for ways to cut costs and streamline communications at the 473-employee Portland, Ore., firm.
Ketterman found a partner in PATEC Holding Corp. to develop a customized solution to bundle and transmit all voice, video, Internet, and data services using a dedicated radio frequency line instead of traditional wire distribution. Radio antennas mounted on the roof of each of the firm's five offices transmit and receive voice/data three times faster than before, and at a fraction of the cost. Ketterman's solution will save ZGF $320,000 this year alone.
"Transmitting data via radio waves is much more cost effective and allows greater flexibility for increased bandwidth and additional services as the needs of the business change," says Ketterman. His solution is also much more reliable than traditional delivery methods—the dedicated FCC radio frequency cannot be interrupted or jammed—and it requires less energy to operate.
25. Revit Boot Camp
26. Keep Your Subcontractors Happy and Save Big Bucks
As part of a companywide commitment to improve relationships with subcontractors, Farmington, Conn.-based KBE Building Corp. (formerly Konover Construction) developed a custom online resource center that provides 24-hour, real-time access to payment status, insurance information, compliance forms, and project details for subcontractors and KBE staff.
"Subs were frustrated with the length of time to get paid, and would frequently call for payment status and other information," says John Patterson, information architect with KBE and developer of the online resource center. He says KBE staff spent hours on the phone daily answering calls, returning calls, and fulfilling requests from subs, costing the company thousands of dollars a month in personnel costs.
After launching the resource center in late 2006, the company saw an immediate 75% reduction in phone calls, in addition to fewer faxes and mailings. Patterson estimates a productivity gain of 25%, saving the company $100,000 annually.
Related Stories
| Apr 3, 2012
Educational facilities see long-term benefits of fiber cement cladding
Illumination Series panels made for a trouble-free, quick installation at a cost-effective price. The design for Red Hawk Elementary School stems from the desire to create a vibrant place for kids to learn. In an effort to achieve this design, RB+B Architects selected Nichiha USA to provide a durable yet modern, contemporary exterior finish.
| Apr 2, 2012
TGP launches new fire-rated glazing website
Website offers online continuing education courses registered with the American Institute of Architects (AIA), BIM 3D models, and rapid-response quoting, among other support tools.
| Apr 2, 2012
Gilbane honored for sustainability efforts in Indianapolis
Emmitt J. Bean Federal Center project team for their role in advancing sustainability in the city.
| Apr 2, 2012
Mitsubishi unveils ultra-high-speed elevator for Shanghai skyscraper
The operation of the elevator is scheduled to begin in 2014.
| Apr 2, 2012
Sachse Construction helps complete Salt Lake City’s City Creek Center
Sachse was hired to complete store build-outs at City Creek Center.
| Apr 2, 2012
Culver joins Sasaki as managing director
Culver will work closely with Sasaki firm leaders on issues of strategy, marketing, and business development.
| Apr 2, 2012
EB-5 investment funds new Miramar, Fla. business complex
Riviera Point Holdings breaks ground on $17 million office center.
| Mar 30, 2012
New windows and doors revitalize older buildings
With their improved aesthetics, energy efficiency, and durability, replacement windows and doors can add significant value to a renovation project.
| Mar 30, 2012
18 handy tablet apps for AEC professionals
Check out these helpful apps for everyday design and construction tasks. Our favorite: MagicPlan, which uses GPS to help you measure and draw a floor plan of any room.
| Mar 29, 2012
U.K.’s Manchester Airport tower constructed in nine days
Time-lapse video shows construction workers on the jobsite for 222 continuous hours.