Masonry Magazine February 1996 Page. 55
The GCN is a new service that provides construction companies with a single source for construction-related information. Subs and suppliers can read about industry-specific marketing information, providers, upcoming industry meetings and training sessions, and construction-related topics. Through the GCN, companies will be able to form alliances across regional boundaries, shop for the best subs and suppliers, recruit, and build their management and technical skills.
The Internet in Construction
The original question was, "What kind of impact will the Information Superhighway have on the construction industry?" The impact has begun, and it's being felt very quickly. Owners are now beginning to use the Internet for efficient information distribution (see, for example, the Texas DOT home page). Contractors are setting up home pages to market their capabilities on a worldwide basis (one of the search services might lead you to your local competitors).
The rapid growth of the Internet begs the question. Could you do business today without a fax machine? Like the fax machine, the Internet is another tool construction professionals will incorporate into their daily routine and in the not-too-distant future wonder how they ever did business without it.
Advantages of the Internet
WHAT ADVANTAGES will the Internet offer the construction industry? Here are a few of the many opportunities awaiting contractors, suppliers, and customers.
* The Internet offers contractors an inexpensive means for communicating the company's competitive advantages: past project experience, descriptions of specialized services, safety programs, TQM results, and any other unique offerings of the firm.
* An application of the Internet within a company can result in reduced costs for long-distance telephone, fax, and overnight courier services.
* Coupling the Internet with digital photography can enhance job-site problem solving and result in improved customer service.
* Project management processes are enhanced through simple point-to-point delivery of project documents including drawings, change orders, RFI's, and invoices. Inherent benefits of this approach include instant access and automatic logging of all correspondence.
* Invoices are virtually error free when developed in an integrated electronic system.
* Electronic pricing allows contractors to take advantage of price differentials from suppliers and subs.
* Electronically delivered updates enhance schedule integration and communication in a timely, error-free format.
* Many construction buyers require that contractors have the ability to communicate electronically.
TRY THEM FIRST
Test Easy Mason corner poles on Block or Brick
We insist that you use the system first, for 30 days, and agree to purchase only if you are completely convinced of our claims.
If you are not impressed with the quality, design, and durability of Easy Mason™ corner poles,
If you don't find them versatile and easy to set up,
If the built in sliding gauge won't save you time and aggravation and assist you in achieving greater accuracy,
If you don't see a significant increase in productivity, and your profits don't increase substantially during this 30 day period,
SEND THEM BACK
If you decide to purchase, we suggest that you use the 12 month split payment method, which allows Easy Mason™ corner poles to pay for themselves through usage.
If you change your mind at any time throughout the 12 months and decide to return them, all remaining payments will be cancelled
For details, phone 1-800-663-8114 fax 1-905-476-8417
or write EASY MASON SYSTEM
25976 Woodbine Ave., Keswick, Ont, Canada L4P 3E9
Internet Addresses
Global Construction Network:
http://www.fminet.com
The WWW Server for Heavy Construction:
http://www.explorer-software.com
The Walls & Ceilings Organization:
http://www.wco.org
The Yahoo Search Engine:
http://www.yahoo.com
Continued from Page 16
To revitalize yourself after walking around a busy exhibit hall, stand in a corner and tense and rotate your foot and leg muscles, one limb at a time. Then, standing erect and relaxed, take five to ten deep breaths before going along your way.
* Look for benefits-Yes, you can get free promotional items and refreshments in the convention hall. But look, too, for benefits of lasting value: technical literature, case studies, product samples. Unlike the giveaways that bring momentary pleasure, items that influence your profitability offer lasting value-long after you return home.
MASONRY JANUARY/FEBRUARY, 1996 55