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How to Position Your Construction Business for Any Economy

Failing to plan for the inevitable, cyclical economic slowdown is one of the biggest mistakes a contractor can make. Contractors need to create sustainable businesses that can thrive when times are good — and survive when times are bad. This week’s Blog talks about the warning signs you need to be aware of in order to make the necessary adjustments to begin positioning your company for a much different economy than perhaps you’re used to.
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How to Rise to the Challenge During a Pandemic

Spirits were high at the beginning of 2020 as people were looking forward to a new year full of possibilities. Now, the mood has shifted drastically as the world has descended into chaos with the emergence and spread of COVID-19. This week’s Blog takes a look at the global pandemic and at what firms can do to ensure that they are able to rise to the challenges posed by coronavirus.
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The Impact of pandemic on Construction’s Supply Chain: A New Risk Profile

There are many risks in today’s dynamic construction economy and just when you think you have wrapped your arms around the known risk areas, a new one shows up at your doorstep. The most recent is the current global epidemic sweeping Canada and impacting your supply chain; COVID-19. This week’s Blog takes a look at the efforts of the Canadian Construction Association and its recent webinar, Coronavirus and Supply Chain Implications in Construction, in keeping industry informed during this quickly evolving crisis.
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We Need More Women in the Trades A looming shortage of apprentices means lost profits and paycheques for Ontarians

The trades in Ontario – and across all of Canada – have been experiencing the crunch that comes from not having enough people to fill vacant positions. This means that companies are turning away business opportunities because there simply enough people to get the job done. This week’s Blog, takes a look at one of the solutions to bridging the workforce gap; that is encouraging industry to work together in bringing more young people – women in particular – into the skilled trades..
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Leaning Into a Culture of Continuous Improvement

Companies interested in applying lean to their operations, must first implement the right tools and instil the belief of lean principles into their organization’s culture. This takes a commitment in providing the tools and training that will allow your organization to succeed, as well as the leadership to see the process through. This week’s Western Exteriors Blog from Chandos Construction, takes a look at what’s required for the adoption of lean and the benefits in doing so from a company that has experienced this transformative manufacturing process.
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Set in Stone – Royal Building Products launches Atlas Stone Composite Stone Panels by Royal

Kicking off its kick off 50th anniversary, Royal Building Products has just announced its new Atlas Stone Composite Stone Panels by Royal, an innovative and durable, lightweight and stylish composite panels authentically replicate the look of stacked stone. This week’s Blog takes a look at this amazing product, as well as its features and benefits.
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Trade Uncertainty and Commodity Pricing Temper Optimism

Check out Western Exteriors new industry-specific Blog! Interested in contributing, get in touch! Share with your friends! Turner & Townsend has recently released its 2020 Canadian Market Intelligence Report, examining economic conditions and outlooks across the country for the construction sector. This week’s Blog breaks down this report and then talks about what it means for the construction industry going forward across Canada.
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The Abuse of Apprentices Stops Now

The legacy practice of mistreating and degrading apprentices needs to end, and it is the contractors first — and the union second — who have to start taking a stand. This week’s Blog by noted business advisor Mark Breslin takes a hard look at how the construction industry is treating and shaping its current generation of apprentices and makes the case for change.
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Friendship Can’t Matter

Written by Mark Breslin Maintaining authentic and caring friendships on the jobsite has inherent challenges when you’re the leader. And without clear expectations, healthy boundaries, and fair treatment, you can invite chaos, misunderstandings and resentment. For foremen and superintendents it is a critical line to be established and adhered to. Friendships in the workplace are common. In fact, it is a big part of what makes work enjoyable, and often helps a team work well together. People become friends when they share a common focus, go through the same experiences together and exert a lot of effort to get the…


