Current Issue July/August 2008

DCD InSights
Versatile Construction Software Integrates Systems to Maximize Efficiency, Profits
    In a slowing economy, it is only logical that those involved in the commercial building industry would take a closer look at ways to maximize the efficiencies, resources and ultimately, the profitability of their operations. But less work in progress also means more time to examine the routine systems and products used to conduct daily business – and time to evaluate if better alternatives exist. 
    At least that’s what construction software providers are banking on as they tout a full range of proven cost-estimating, accounting, procurement, project management and reporting software solutions. These products operate on the basic premise that construction is a highly complex organization of integrated components that must succeed both separately and as a cohesive, interactive network. Effective construction management software allows less people to do more work in less time, with fewer errors, greater accountability and better cash flow. Continuous information sharing eliminates redundancies and insures that key players have access to meaningful data. In good times, this information is valuable; in tighter times, it’s essential to stay in business.
Insights Archive |  Read more

DCD Cost Trends
Construction Cost Trends for 2008
Housing continues to slide - it is down 20% from last year. Public works projects are still bolstering the construction industry and have maintained a projected growth of 10-15%.  Some public segments have posted gains of up to 30% (schools and public safety projects) and continue to offset the downturn in housing.  At publication, the total construction industry is still 1-2% off of last year’s mark.  A note: housing has gone down from 55% of the construction market to just 40% in the last 3 years. Trends Archive | Read more

DCD Cost Guides
The DCD 2008 Commercial & Industrial Building Square Foot Cost Guide
Design Cost Data™ magazine includes a Building Sq. Ft. Cost Guide in each issue. These square foot cost guides have been assembled from projects in our database, the National Historical Building Cost Database (NHBCdb™) online at DCD.COM. These guides are provided to the industry by DCD as a benchmark for future building costs.
DCD Cost Guides Archive | Read more