Category: Blog

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Embracing Sustainability

StratusVue’s Clean Technology for the Built Environment

As the world continues to grapple with the urgent need to address climate change, the construction industry, which accounts for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. In this pursuit, StratusVue, a leading technology company, is making waves with its innovative clean technology solutions for the built environment.

StratusVue is an established clean technology company that is revolutionizing the way construction projects are managed and executed. Their cutting-edge platform leverages cloud-based technology, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to streamline construction processes, reduce waste, and minimize environmental impact.

One of the keyways in which StratusVue is driving sustainability in the built environment is through its digital document management system. Traditionally, construction projects generate massive amounts of paper documents, including blueprints, contracts, permits, and more. These paper-based processes are not only time-consuming and costly but also contribute to deforestation and waste.

StratusVue’s digital document management system replaces paper-based workflows with electronic documents that can be stored, accessed, and shared securely on the cloud. This eliminates the need for physical copies, reduces paper waste, and minimizes the carbon footprint associated with printing, shipping, and storing paper documents. Furthermore, the platform offers advanced search and analytics capabilities, allowing construction teams to quickly find and retrieve important documents, improving productivity and reducing the risk of errors.

Another notable feature of StratusVue’s clean technology is its robust data analytics capabilities. The platform collects and analyzes data from various sources, to provide real-time insights and predictive analytics. This data-driven approach enables construction teams to optimize resource allocation, schedule tasks more efficiently, and minimize waste.

StratusVue’s clean technology also incorporates artificial intelligence (AI). StratusLink reads the contents of your construction documents and automatically reads, references and links the content within your cloud-based documents. No longer are the days of manually setting regions, defining patterns or needing a full-time Document Control employee to manually hyperlink the documents.  It doesn’t end with just hyperlinking, StratusLink relates the drawings to other StratusVue products, like the Project Management section of Plans and Specs and StratusDrive.

In addition to its environmental benefits, StratusVue’s clean technology also offers economic advantages to construction companies. By optimizing construction processes, reducing waste, and improving productivity, the platform helps companies’ lower costs and increase profitability. Furthermore, by embracing sustainability and demonstrating environmentally responsible practices, construction companies can enhance their reputation, attract environmentally conscious clients, and gain a competitive edge in the market.

StratusVue’s clean technology is transforming the construction industry by promoting sustainability in the built environment. Its digital document management system, data analytics capabilities, and AI are empowering construction companies to streamline processes, reduce waste, and minimize environmental impact. By adopting StratusVue’s innovative technology, construction companies can not only achieve their sustainability goals but also reap economic benefits and gain a competitive advantage. It’s time for the construction industry to embrace clean technology and pave the way towards a more sustainable future.

Learn More about StratusVue’s approach to exceptional project management.

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The Importance of Usability in Project Management Software

Boosting Productivity, Collaboration, and Success

As businesses strive to achieve their goals and deliver projects on time and within budget, the right project management software can make all the difference. However, it’s not just about having powerful features and robust functionality; usability plays a crucial role in determining the success of project management software. In this blog, we will explore why exceptional usability matters in project management software and how it can benefit businesses.

Enhanced User Experience
A positive user experience is critical for any software, including project management tools. When project management software is easy to use, team members can quickly adapt to it, reducing the learning curve and minimizing errors. Intuitive interfaces, clear navigation, and straightforward features make it easy for users to create, assign, and track tasks, set deadlines, manage resources, and monitor progress. A smooth and enjoyable user experience boosts user satisfaction, productivity, and adoption rates, as team members are more likely to actively engage with the software and leverage its capabilities to manage their projects effectively.

Increased Productivity
Productivity is a key factor in project success, and exceptional usability in project management software can significantly impact productivity. When software is intuitive and easy to use, team members can focus on their core responsibilities rather than getting bogged down with complicated software interfaces or processes. They can quickly input and access project information, collaborate with team members, and make informed decisions. This streamlined workflow helps teams work more efficiently, leading to improved productivity, reduced errors, and timely project completion.

Better Collaboration
Effective collaboration is essential for successful project management, and usability plays a critical role in facilitating collaboration among team members. Project management software with exceptional usability provides collaborative tools such as comments, notifications, document sharing, and real-time updates, making it easy for team members to communicate, share information, and work together seamlessly. When team members find the software easy to use, they are more likely to actively participate in the project management process, providing updates, sharing feedback, and collaborating effectively. This results in improved teamwork, better communication, and ultimately, better project outcomes.

Cost and Time Savings
Usability issues in project management software can lead to wasted time, effort, and costly errors. Team members may struggle with complex interfaces, leading to delays and mistakes. Exceptional usability reduces the risk of errors, minimizes the need for extensive training and support, and ensures that team members can quickly and easily access the information they need to perform their tasks. This saves time and costs, as team members can focus on their work rather than struggling with the software, and projects can progress smoothly without unnecessary delays or rework.

Increased Adoption
User adoption is crucial for the success of any software implementation. If project management software lacks usability, team members may resist using it, resulting in low adoption rates and underutilization of the software’s capabilities. On the other hand, exceptional usability encourages team members to embrace the software as a valuable tool for managing their projects. When team members find the software easy to use and beneficial in their day-to-day work, they are more likely to adopt it willingly. This results in higher user engagement, better data input, and improved project visibility, leading to more successful project outcomes.

Exceptional usability in project management software is essential for businesses aiming to improve their project management practices and achieve successful project outcomes. Usability enhances user experience, increases productivity, promotes collaboration, saves time and costs, and boosts user adoption. Businesses should prioritize usability when evaluating project management software to ensure that their teams can work efficiently, collaborate effectively, and achieve project success. Invest in project management software with exceptional usability to empower your teams and elevate your project management practices to new heights.

Learn More about StratusVue’s approach to exceptional project management.

 

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StratusVue looks internally for where the Construction Industry is going

StratusVue looks internally for where the Construction Industry is going.
Featuring: Parker Hann

StratusVue is a company dedicated to providing solutions for construction management. Founded in 2007 by the creative and driven John Goecke, the company has used their central product, StratusVue Plans and Specs, to revolutionize construction project management. Many more have come to work for the company over time, including Brian Anson in 2016. Through his focus on Cost Management solutions and accounting integration, Plans and Specs began to have a broader appeal among construction professionals, and this only furthered StratusVue’s growth.

Beginning in 2007, John Goecke began developing the idea of StratusVue Plans and Specs as a solution to streamline construction projects. In an industry where companies often had to use multiple tools to manage their projects, it was difficult for them to see a clear picture of what they were working towards.

John wanted to create a product that would bring all of these elements together in one place. He worked with his team to develop a product that would help companies streamline their processes and get more done. Starting with email communications through RFIs and Submittals, he moved on to add in other aspects of construction like blueprints, and then finally adding in the actual cost of the project. This was just the beginning, however, as John knew that there was so much more potential for the product.

He also realized that many of the people who would be using his product did not know how to read plans. While John had always been able to read plans, he knew that not everyone had the same level of experience. That’s when he came up with the idea of creating a digital version of a blueprint that could be used by anyone.

The next step was to create a product that could help users manage costs. To do this, John needed to develop a module that allowed users to see exactly where their money was going and how it was spread between many aspects of a project. He knew just the man for the job: Brian Anson. With a background in innovation and consulting for start-ups and small businesses, Brian stepped in to lead StratusVue’s strategic planning for product development and operations. Prior to joining StratusVue, Brian worked as a Director of Operations for a major construction company. He led the team in creating a new cloud-based system that helped clients manage their costs and track project progress.

Brian immediately saw the potential for StratusVue Plans and Specs to help the construction industry and began developing a solution that would help contractors and construction managers see where their money was going. He introduced a new feature to the product called Cost Management, which allowed users to input expenses into the system. Using this feature, contractors could see exactly how much they were spending on each aspect of the project and compare that to the estimated budget.

As the product grew in popularity, many users began asking for more features. That’s when John decided to begin looking for ways to integrate the product with other tools that were already being used. By adding integrations with other programs like QuickBooks, users could keep all of their data in one place: StratusVue Plans and Specs. This made it easier for them to access the information they needed to make decisions and improve their projects.

With their product in great shape, both John and Brian knew it was time to market their idea to more customers. They hired a sales professional, Laura Ducharme, and began working on getting the word out about the product. It wasn’t long before they got their first big break. The company won a contract to manage a large construction project in San Francisco. This had the potential to put the company on the map, big time.

However, there was a catch. The city had strict regulations on how contractors could use subcontractors. The project required that the company use local companies whenever possible. With only a few days to go before the start of the project, StratusVue needed to find a way to get around the law.

They called in their friend, Joe Lally, to help them. A former city attorney, he knew how to work within the law and quickly figured out a way to make sure that the company could meet the requirements. After some initial discussion, the company decided to take the risk and hire subcontractors from outside of the city.

This was a huge win for the company and a huge victory for Joe. However, the next step was even bigger. Plans and Specs languished under the increased workload, and the developers worked overtime for weeks to maintain the servers. In the end, StratusVue was able to complete the project on time and on budget. They had proved to their client that they were capable of handling big projects, and the company only grew from there.

In 2016, John and Brian began talking about the future of the company. With plans to expand into new markets, they realized that the company would need a new leader. As much as John loved the product he had created, he knew it was time to pass the baton to someone else. He chose to promote Brian to Chief Executive Officer.

As CEO, Brian looked at the company’s mission statement and knew that there was still so much potential for the product. He set out to focus on Cost Management and Accounting integration. His goal was to make the product even more useful and beneficial for construction professionals.

Over the years, many customers had asked for a way to integrate the product with their accounting software. They wanted to be able to track all of their costs and expenses in one place, which is exactly what Brian was working on when he got the call.

“Hello?”

“Hi, this is Joe Lally.”

“Joe!” I exclaimed. “What are you doing calling me at work? You know that’s against company policy.”

“I’m sorry, Brian,” he said. “I have to ask you something really important. Can we meet up later today?”

“Sure, where should we meet?”

“I can’t tell you over the phone. Where is your favorite spot in the woods?”

“Well, I like to go to the clearing near the lake.”

“Great. Meet me there at noon tomorrow, and I’ll explain everything then.”

“Okay,” I said. “See you then.”

***

As Brian was walking near the lake the following day, he heard a voice from behind him.

“You must be Brian Anson.”

He turned around to see a man dressed in a suit holding a briefcase.

“Yes, that’s me. What do you want?”

“I’m here to talk about the job you’re doing for StratusVue.”

“What job?”

“The one where you’re using our product to manage costs and expenses.”

“Oh, right. I guess you could say that I’m managing the costs and expenses of the company.”

“That’s great! I was hoping you’d say that.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, I’ve been tasked with finding ways to help construction companies improve their project management processes. When I looked into your company, I found out that you were using our product to manage costs and expenses.”

“That’s good to hear,” Brian said. “Do you have any recommendations for how we can improve the product?”

“Actually, I do. Would you be willing to take a quick survey about your experience with StratusVue Plans and Specs?”

“Of course. I’d be happy to.”

“Great. The survey should only take five minutes or so.”

Brian began taking the survey.

“Are you planning on using the product again in the future?”

“Definitely. We’ve gotten some great results.”

This went on for some time. After finishing the survey, Brian thought at length about the new ideas the stranger had given him. He couldn’t wait to tell John about them.

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How Coding Impacts Construction

StratusVue looks internally for where the Construction Industry is going.
Featuring: Gannon Riley

How Coding Impacts Construction

Coding, or software programming, has become an increasingly important aspect of the construction industry. From design and planning to construction and maintenance, coding has a significant impact on every aspect of the construction process.

One of the main ways coding impacts construction is through computer-aided design (CAD) software. CAD software is essential for creating blueprints and plans for construction projects, and coding is used to create and program these tools. This allows construction professionals to create detailed and accurate designs, which can be modified and refined as needed.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is another important aspect of construction that is impacted by coding. BIM is a digital model that helps architects, engineers, and contractors collaborate and make informed decisions during the construction process. Coding is used to create and program BIM software, enabling construction professionals to create detailed and accurate models that can be used to plan and execute construction projects.

Coding also plays a significant role in the construction of equipment and machinery, including cranes, excavators, and bulldozers. Coding is used to program these machines, allowing for greater efficiency and accuracy, as well as improved safety on construction sites.

Project management is another important aspect of construction that is impacted by coding. Coding is used to create project management software, which helps construction professionals manage their projects more effectively. This software can track schedules, resources, budgets, and more, providing real-time data that helps construction professionals make informed decisions.

Coding is also used to create safety management software, which can help monitor and analyze safety data on construction sites. This helps identify potential safety risks and implement proactive measures to prevent accidents and injuries. Additionally, coding is used to create predictive maintenance software, which can analyze data on equipment and machinery to predict when maintenance is required, reducing downtime and improving overall efficiency.

In conclusion, coding has a significant impact on the construction industry, affecting everything from design and planning to construction and maintenance. By automating tasks, improving accuracy, and providing real-time data, coding helps construction professionals work more efficiently and effectively, leading to safer, faster, and more cost-effective construction projects.

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Exploring the difference between record keeping and document control

StratusVue looks internally for where the Construction Industry is going.
Featuring: MariaChristina Pintor-Garcia

Exploring the difference between record keeping and document control.

Record keeping and document control are related, but distinct activities that are important in any organization.

Record keeping refers to the systematic process of creating, maintaining, and storing records in a structured manner, with the goal of preserving information for future reference. This information can include anything from financial data, customer records, and employee information, to legal documents and contracts.  The primary focus of record keeping is to ensure that important information is accurate, accessible, and secure.

Document control, on the other hand, refers to the management of documents throughout their entire life cycle, from creation to archival or destruction. It includes processes for controlling the creation, distribution, review, approval, and revision of documents, as well as the storage and retrieval of these documents.  The primary objective of document control is to ensure that only the latest and most accurate version of a document is in use, and that all stakeholders have access to the correct document at the right time.

In summary, record keeping is concerned with maintaining a complete and accurate record of information, while document control is concerned with ensuring the proper management and dissemination of documents.  Both activities are important for effective information management and for ensuring compliance with regulations and standards.

Why it is so important to have document control and record keeping within the construction industry?

Document control and record keeping are important in the construction industry for several reasons:

    1. Legal compliance: Construction projects are governed by numerous laws and regulations, such as building codes, health and safety laws, and environmental protection regulations. Document control and record keeping help ensure that a construction project complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
    2. Quality control: Record keeping, and document control are essential for tracking the quality of materials, workmanship, and processes during construction. This information can be used to identify and correct problems before they become more serious and costly.
    3. Project management: Construction projects can be complex and involve many different parties, including contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and owners. Document control and record keeping help keep track of all the important information and documentation related to a project, such as schedules, budgets, and progress reports.
    4. Communication: Effective communication is essential for the success of any construction project. Document control and record keeping help ensure that all parties involved in a project have access to the information they need to make informed decisions and communicate effectively.
    5. Historical record: Construction projects create a significant amount of information that can be valuable for future reference. Document control and record keeping ensure that this information is organized and preserved for future use.

In conclusion, document control and record keeping are critical for the successful completion of construction projects, from ensuring legal compliance to facilitating communication and preserving a historical record of the project.

Why digitizing the process of document control and record keeping is so important in construction?

Digitizing the process of document control and record keeping in construction is important for several reasons:

    1. Improved efficiency: Digitization streamlines the process of document control and record keeping, making it faster, easier, and more efficient. This can save time and reduce errors compared to manual processes.
    2. Better accessibility: Digital records can be accessed from anywhere, at any time, with the right permissions. This makes it easier for construction teams to share information, collaborate and make decisions, even when they are working remotely or in different locations.
    3. Enhanced security: Digital records can be secured with password protection, encryption, and backup systems, providing a higher level of security for sensitive information than paper records.
    4. Better compliance: Digitization can help construction companies meet regulatory requirements, such as maintaining accurate records of safety procedures, material specifications, and contract terms.
    5. Improved accuracy: Digital record keeping systems can automate the process of data entry, reducing the risk of human error, and ensuring that records are up-to-date and accurate.
    6. Reduced costs: Digitization can also lead to cost savings by reducing the need for paper, ink, storage space and the costs associated with manual record-keeping processes.

Overall, digitizing the process of document control and record keeping in construction can improve efficiency, increase accuracy, and enhance the overall success of a project.

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Cost of change to technology

StratusVue looks internally for where the Construction Industry is going
Featuring: Samantha Leidy

Cost of change to technology.

The cost of adopting new technology can vary greatly depending on several factors such as the type of technology, the complexity of implementation, the size of the organization, and the resources available. Some common costs associated with adopting new technology include:

    • Initial purchase or subscription fees
    • Training and professional development for employees
    • Integration with existing systems
    • Technical support and maintenance
    • Downtime during the transition period

It’s important for organizations to carefully evaluate the costs and benefits of new technology before making a decision to adopt it. In some cases, the benefits such as increased efficiency and improved productivity can outweigh the costs in the long run.

Technology and organization of data.

The organization of data is critical for efficient and effective technology use. Good data organization enables quick and easy access to the information needed, reduces duplicates, improves data quality, and supports data analysis and decision-making. Some ways that technology can help with the organization of data include:

    • Database management systems (DBMS): These are computer programs that allow you to store, manage, and retrieve data in a structured way. Examples of DBMS include SQL databases and NoSQL databases.
    • Data warehousing: This is a technology that enables organizations to store large amounts of data in a centralized location for analysis and reporting. Data warehousing systems are optimized for data retrieval and can support complex queries and analysis.
    • Cloud storage: This is a technology that allows organizations to store data on remote servers and access it over the internet. Cloud storage can provide scalable and flexible data storage solutions and can reduce the need for physical storage infrastructure.
    • Data visualization tools: These are tools that help present data in a visual format, making it easier to understand and analyze. Examples of data visualization tools include charts, graphs, and dashboards.

Effective technology and data organization can lead to better data management and more informed decision-making, ultimately leading to improved efficiency and success for organizations.

Record keeping and collaboration with team members and software.

Record keeping and collaboration with team members can be improved with the use of appropriate software. There are several types of software that can support record keeping and collaboration, including:

    • Project management software: This type of software helps teams plan, track, and manage projects, tasks, and deadlines. It can also provide tools for team communication, document sharing, and record keeping.
    • Collaborative documents and spreadsheets: Tools like Google Docs and Microsoft Office 365 allow teams to work on documents and spreadsheets simultaneously in real-time, making it easy to track changes and collaborate on projects.
    • Customer relationship management (CRM) software: CRM software is designed to manage interactions with customers and can be used for record keeping, tracking sales, and managing customer information.
    • File management software: This type of software provides a centralized location for storing and organizing files, making it easier for team members to access the information they need.

By using software to support record keeping and collaboration, teams can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and increase transparency. However, it’s important to choose software that meets the specific needs of the team and organization and to provide adequate training and support to ensure successful implementation and use.

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What is Artificial Intelligence (AI) and where what is its origin?

StratusVue looks internally for where the Construction Industry is going
Featuring: Sarah Clukey

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI) and where is its origin?

Ada Lovelace is considered a pioneer in the field of computer programming, and her work on Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine in the 1800s laid the foundation for the development of modern computers and artificial intelligence (AI). She is credited with writing the world’s first computer program, a set of instructions for the engine to calculate Bernoulli numbers. Her notes on the engine also include what is recognized as the first published algorithm intended to be processed by a machine.

Lovelace’s work demonstrated the potential of computers to be used for more than just mathematical calculations, and her vision for the Analytical Engine as a general-purpose machine was ahead of its time. Her notes and letters revealed a deep understanding of the potential of the machine to be used for a wide range of scientific, mathematical, and other applications. She also believed that the machine would have a wide range of potential applications beyond just mathematics and that it could compose sophisticated music, compose graphics, and create new scientific and artistic forms.

Her work helped to establish the field of computer science, and her ideas about the potential of computers continue to influence the development of technology today. She is also celebrated as a trailblazer for women in technology and a role model for future generations of women in STEM fields.

In conclusion, Ada Lovelace’s contributions to the field of computer science and her vision for the potential of computers were groundbreaking and have had a lasting impact on the development of technology and the field of AI.

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The Next Big Shift in Construction

Featuring:  Brian Anson

What is the next big shift in construction?

The next big shift in construction is expected to be towards more sustainable and efficient building practices, with a focus on reducing waste, minimizing the carbon footprint, and using technology to improve the design, planning, and execution processes. This shift may also involve an increased use of prefabrication, modular construction, and building information modeling (BIM) technology to increase efficiency and decrease costs. Additionally, there is a growing trend towards smart buildings and the integration of internet of things (IoT) technology to improve the overall functionality and sustainability of buildings.

So how are general contractors to accomplish that then?

General contractors can achieve the next big shift in construction by adopting the following strategies:

    1. Embracing technology: Implementing Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, using 3D printing, virtual and augmented reality for visualization, and using project management tools to streamline processes.
    2. Implementing sustainable practices: Making use of green materials, optimizing energy efficiency, and incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.
    3. Prefabrication and modular construction: Building components in a controlled factory environment and transporting them to the site can help reduce waste and increase efficiency.
    4. Collaboration and communication: Encouraging collaboration between all project stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, and subcontractors, and using cloud-based tools to share information and streamline communication.
    5. Employee training and development: Investing in training and development programs to build a highly skilled workforce that is equipped to handle the challenges of the new construction landscape.

By adopting these strategies, general contractors can remain competitive and help drive the industry forward in a more sustainable and efficient direction.

What would be the most impactful?

The most impactful strategy for the next big shift in construction would likely be the integration of technology, specifically Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other digital tools, as it has the potential to transform the entire construction process from design to execution. BIM enables the creation of a digital twin of the building, allowing for better visualization, collaboration, and communication between stakeholders, leading to improved decision-making, reduced waste, and higher efficiency. The use of digital tools can also provide real-time data and insights, enabling more accurate forecasting and planning.

In addition, the adoption of sustainable building practices, such as using green materials and optimizing energy efficiency, can have a significant impact on reducing the carbon footprint of the construction industry and promoting more environmentally friendly and efficient buildings.

Overall, both the integration of technology and the adoption of sustainable building practices have the potential to bring significant benefits to the construction industry and have a lasting impact on the future of building and construction.

Which field within construction would it be most beneficial?

The integration of technology and the adoption of sustainable building practices can bring benefits to all areas of the construction field, but it may have the most impact in the following areas:

    1. Design and Planning: The use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology can improve the accuracy of design and planning, reducing errors and rework, and enabling virtual prototyping and visualization.
    2. Project Management: Digital tools such as project management software can provide real-time data and insights, helping to streamline processes and improve communication and collaboration between stakeholders.
    3. Construction: Prefabrication and modular construction can increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve safety on the construction site.
    4. Operations and Maintenance: The use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology can help optimize building operations and maintenance, reducing energy consumption and costs, and improving overall functionality and sustainability.

Overall, the integration of technology and the adoption of sustainable building practices can bring benefits to all areas of the construction field and help drive the industry forward in a more efficient and sustainable direction.