Blog

Managing Cash Flow in Construction

“We were always focused on our profit and loss statement. But cash flow was not a regularly discussed topic. It was as if we were driving along, watching only the speedometer, when in fact we were running out of gas.”  – Michael Dell, Founder & CEO of Dell Technologies

It takes a broad skill-set to run a successful construction business and navigate the significant risks inherent in the industry.  Not only do you need to know the ins and outs of construction, you must also be skilled at business management and finance.  From executing contracts to understanding the bid process to managing resources, not the least of which is cash. The quote above from Michael Dell about cash flow is very timely and applicable for contractors.  A large surety company recently listed its “Top 10 Reasons Contractors are at Risk of Failing,” with Insufficient Cash Flow as #4 on the list.  Cash flow issues have historically been at the top of similar lists of construction industry risks.  The ability to quickly access cash is the universal resource to fix just about any issue that arises.

Continue reading

Five Lies About Multitasking While Driving

Many drivers are convinced that it is okay to multitask while driving, but crash statistics and studies on distracted driving indicate it is not safe.  The National Safety Council estimates that cell phone use alone accounts for at least 25% of crashes.  It is estimated that at a typical daylight moment, about 416,000 passenger vehicle drivers are using handheld cell phones while driving. 

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and in this blog post we debunk five lies concerning multitasking while driving that many drivers believe as truth:

Continue reading

Reference-Based Pricing: Employer Considerations

There is a lot of noise in the marketplace regarding referenced-based pricing (RBP) as a viable payment model for employer-sponsored health plans.  RBP is a payment model that does not utilize a network of providers, but rather bases reimbursement for claims on a percentage of Medicare, which serves as the “reference” point. The advantage of RBP to an employer is clear as most employers see savings ranging from 20% – 40%.  The RBP model can be applied across the board, or just for inpatient and outpatient facility charges.   Continue reading

Housing Discrimination & Criminal Background Checks: What Property Managers Need to Know

In my service to clients as a Risk Advisor, I have a unique perspective due to my background as an attorney. By watching various legal actions, I see great opportunity to learn and help better protect the businesses and livelihoods of our clients. Specifically, as it relates to our clients in the affordable housing industry, housing discrimination cases can provide significant insights to guide the development or adjustment of risk management strategies and appropriately tailored insurance programs.   Continue reading

Litigation Funding: A Backseat Driver of Commercial Auto Rates

Businesses have experienced increases in auto premiums for 29 consecutive quarters, according to the third-quarter 2018 broker survey from The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers (CIAB).  …Continue Reading