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Streamline your Project Management with StratusVue
Advantages to adding an Internship Program
Construction companies are known for their tough working conditions, intricate processes, and highly skilled workforce. But what if I told you that adding an internship program to your construction company could be a game-changer? Internship programs have been known to have numerous advantages for both the company and the intern. Here’s a look at the impact a construction company can have by adding an internship program.
Advantages to the Company:
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- Fresh Perspective: Interns bring a fresh perspective to the company, which can be incredibly beneficial. They have an eagerness to learn, ask questions, and challenge existing processes, which can help identify areas for improvement.
- Cost-Effective: Hiring an intern is a cost-effective way to get some extra help during busy seasons. Instead of hiring a full-time employee, the company can hire interns for a specific period to complete a project or assist with tasks.
- Recruitment: Internship programs can also be an effective recruitment tool. It’s an opportunity for the company to identify and train potential candidates for full-time positions. Additionally, interns who have had a positive experience are more likely to refer others to the company.
- Increased Productivity: Interns can help increase the productivity of the company. They can take on tasks that would otherwise be put on hold, freeing up time for full-time employees to work on other important projects.
Advantages to the Intern:
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- Hands-on Experience: Interns get hands-on experience in the field, which is invaluable. It’s an opportunity to apply the skills they’ve learned in school to real-life situations.
- Skill Development: Interns have the opportunity to develop new skills and improve existing ones. They can learn from experienced professionals and gain insight into the construction industry.
- Networking: Internship programs provide interns with an opportunity to network with professionals in the industry. They can make connections that could help them secure a job in the future.
- Resume Builder: Internship programs are a great addition to a resume. It shows potential employers that the intern has practical experience in the field, which could give them an edge over other candidates.
Establishing an Internship Program:
Establishing an internship program can be a bit daunting, but it’s not as complicated as it may seem. Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved:
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- Define Objectives: The first step is to define the objectives of the internship program. What do you hope to achieve? What tasks will the interns be responsible for? What skills do you want them to learn?
- Identify Positions: Once you have defined the objectives, you can identify the positions that need to be filled. This will help you determine how many interns you need and what skills they should possess.
- Develop Job Descriptions: Job descriptions should be developed for each position. They should outline the responsibilities, skills required, and qualifications.
- Determine Compensation: You should determine whether the internship will be paid or unpaid. If paid, you’ll need to determine the compensation rate.
- Create a Recruitment Strategy: You’ll need to develop a recruitment strategy to attract potential candidates. This may include posting job descriptions on job boards or reaching out to universities and colleges.
- Develop an Onboarding Process: Once interns are hired, you’ll need to develop an onboarding process. This should include an orientation, training, and an introduction to the company and its culture.
Adding an internship program can have a significant impact on a construction company. It provides benefits for both the company and the intern. The company can gain a fresh perspective, save money, recruit potential candidates, and increase productivity. Interns gain hands-on experience, develop new skills, network with professionals, and build their resumes. Establishing an internship program requires defining objectives, identifying positions, developing job descriptions, determining compensation
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.
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.
Connecting the Field to the Office for Potential Change Orders and Work Orders
Collaboration and Connecting the Field to the Office. Tina Salcido, Savant Construction, Inc.
Obstacle: Connecting the Field to the Office for Potential Change Orders and Work Orders
Solution: StratusVue’s Issues Tracking, creating the item on the mobile app and linking the item to a change event within the project.
Overview: The Savant team needed a method to create and track both potential change orders and work orders that originate in the field and have that item be supplied to the office. The items both contain relevant job site information and attachments such as pictures to support the item. Savants field team is using the StratusVue mobile app to create both the work orders and the potential changes order within the issues section of project management. This item allows for the field to create the item and the office to complete a review prior to creating a change event.
Quote: ” The StratusVue App allowed for both our field and office to be connected and streamline our process of creating and presenting change events. The app is intuitive and easy for our field to use, they can even work offline if the job site has poor reception. The Savant SOP has been improved with the implementation of StratusVue. Our method to capture and record activity in the field and seamlessly share it with the office has been a welcomed change” Tina Salcido, Savant Construction, Inc.
More Information: Request a Demo
Project Collaboration and Controlled User Permissions
Anne Sangemino, Racanelli Construction
Obstacle: Many people on one project and a need for sharing secured data that not all project members should be able to view.
Solution: StratusVue’s User Profiles for both the Organization and the Collaborators allow for project collaboration and controlled user permissions that are unique to the organization’s needs.
Overview: User Profiles defined at the project level allow for flexibility and direct control over project data and collaboration. Centralize all of the project data in one location with each project member having unique and personalized permissions to advance project collaboration in real time.
Quote: ” StratusVue’s platform allows for us to adjust permissions at the project level allowing for ideal collaboration. We have direct control at the project level to update and assign permissions as the project requires” – Anne Sangemino, Racanelli Construction
More Information: Request a Demo
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:
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- 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.
- Implementing sustainable practices: Making use of green materials, optimizing energy efficiency, and incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.
- Prefabrication and modular construction: Building components in a controlled factory environment and transporting them to the site can help reduce waste and increase efficiency.
- 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.
- 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:
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- 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.
- 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.
- Construction: Prefabrication and modular construction can increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve safety on the construction site.
- 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.
The most straightforward explanation of zero-day in 10 seconds!
👉 The most straightforward explanation of zero-day in 10 seconds!
John Goecke talks with Indusface about complex security terms & relates them to real business problems in a matter of moments on the latest #SaaSTrana Show 🎙️.
He is the founder of StratusVue and discusses with Venkatesh (Venky) how everything changed for them after a #ransomware attack ⚠️ in 2018.
He also shares how the construction industry 🏗️ is a soft target for hackers as there is no regulatory oversight, unlike in banking and healthcare. And security is always an afterthought for business owners.
His practical learnings from unexpected ransomware attacks on his business are wise words of wisdom for anyone in SaaS! 💡
#indusface #podcast #zeroday #zerodayvulnerability #ransomwareattacks #hacking #saas #saassecurity #apisecurity #appsec #apptrana #constructiontechnology
Own, Visualize And Execute On Your Construction Data
Todd Musser, Dan Vos Construction Company
Obstacle: Unable to access or evaluate project data.
Solution: StratusVue Open APIs and visualizations provide complete access to view the organizations project data.
Overview: As a General Contractor, Todd Musser at Dan Vos Construction Company, found true value in having access to their project data through the StratusVue open APIs. They are now able to guide their business decisions and improvements to various levels within the Organization. Specifically, allowing their leadership team to make data driven decisions by utilizing PowerBI to visualize high-level performance data, then drilling into project and individual detailed metrics.
Quote: “Having access to our data at any time gives us the ability to make educated business decisions, not only for projects but as an organization. It’s a true competitive advantage.”
More Info: Request a Demo