CSI Offers New Webinar Series on Construction Business Profitability

Online educational sessions address sound business management practices

ALEXANDRIA, Va. - January 15, 2009 - The Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) announces a new Webinar education series in March that will address sound business management practices in the construction industry. Creating and Maintaining Profitability in Your Construction Business will offer guidance on dealing with delays, differing conditions, changes to the work and unauthorized communication on the job site between sub-tier contractors and owners.

The interactive telephone/Internet sessions are scheduled between 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. EST on March 5, 12 and 24. Participants can view the session materials and ask questions of the instructor in real-time during each of the 90-minute

Thursday, March 5 - This session will discuss the effect of contract language on profitability; how to identify historical risks and address them in the contract; and the risks and rewards of various project delivery systems.

Thursday, March 12 - This session will address managing the risks associated with code compliance, specification and industry standards; managing communication and documentation to keep the owner aware of the costs throughout the project; and avoiding confrontation after delivering the final invoice.

Tuesday, March 24 - This final session will cover the latest information on alternative dispute resolution; establishing internal policies regarding dispute negotiations; and transferring costly risks away from your company.

"There are many factors that can affect the profitability of construction contracting businesses," said CSI Executive Director and CEO Walter Marlowe, P.E., CSI, CAE. "This course will address managing some of the most common issues that result in loss of time and production."

A thorough knowledge of the industry and mastery of technical skills are no longer enough to build a successful contracting business. High-quality project management is a critical component to operating a successful business in today's marketplace.

Participants can earn 0.45 CSI CEUs, 4.5 AIA LUs, HSW for completing the entire series. Discounts are available to students (proof of student status is required).

Bill Dexter will lead the three-part educational series. Mr. Dexter is a renowned risk management consultant and trainer. He has more than 35 years of experience in the construction industry as a craftsman, business owner, contractor, consultant and educator.

CSI Webinars are designed to be convenient and affordable. One fee covers the registration for all participants at a single site. Participants can register for an individual session, or save money and guarantee a seat by registering for the entire three-part program for one fee.

To sign up for the Webinar series go to http://www.csinet.org/.