about events contact follow
March 9th, 2010

Are There Human Benefits in Smart Grid?


Complements of GE

Complements of GE


Companies and their stance on communicating the human benefits of smart grid

Learning how smart grid technology works is important but even more significant is figuring out what the technology will do for people. As a way to monitor power demands and reallocate resources there are many companies adopting smart grid technology. The recent buzz around this technology is not only about preventing blackouts and blowouts but also about the human benefits that comes from smart grid. With the evolution of the smart grid, companies have been creating a channel of communication, clearly highlighting the positive aspects of smart grid. Considering the current influx of interactive microsites, YouTube videos and pricey commercials, companies have become highly invested in communicating to the consumer that the smart grid, is a good thing.

As a prime example, Google has partnered with several utility companies and has been heavily involved in dialogue advocating for smart grid technology. The internet giant’s smart meter project called, Google PowerMeter is meant to organize and track energy consumption in homes and/or businesses. In efforts to support the program, Google has developed a free Web service, which allows consumers to view their electricity consumption on a daily basis. As the developers of the PowerMeter, Google.org (the philanthropic arm of the giant) has taken a deep dive in focusing on the positive impact this system will have on societies everyday use of energy.

From Google.org

From Google.org

By having information about your energy consumption, Google believes consumers will be in a better position to make smarter choices. Monitoring and having access to information about your daily energy intake will allow consumers to make informed decisions on how and when to cut back. This notion of access to information is a consistent message resonating within Google’s push for smart grid technology. Check out the video on Google.org’s Youtube channel, which gives a deeper look on how they are communicating the human benefit of smart grid technology.

GE, another company that has publicly support smart grid technology has been a heavy investor in updating the national power grid. As a part of their communication efforts GE paid $100,000 per second for a commercial that aired during this years Super Bowl. GE’s microsite provides an interactive inside look on how smart grid works. Additionally, The commercial and the microsite coupled with GE’s strong partnerships with Google and other companies like California’s PG&E and American Electric Power are clear initiatives in educating the public about smart grid. As the company continues to develop commercials and partnerships, GE has been a key player in communicating the positive impact smart grid will have on consumers.

Other major companies, like Microsoft, Seimans, Johnson Controls (client) and IBM have also been key players in advocating for smart grid technology and emphasizing its benefits.

Are there any risks in highlighting and communicating the human benefits of smart grid? Yes, there are. In the February 17th issue of USA Today the cover story of the Money section highlighted several cases in which homeowners have been unhappy with the smart grid. Instead of saving money some homeowners had seen their electricity bills skyrocket. Given this article and others, there are clear pros and cons to smart grid.

Nevertheless, this blow back and any others that follow will not put a damper to the next phase of smart grid technology. Current data shows that by the end of 2010 nearly 35% of houses and businesses will have smart meters - a clear representation that consumers do believe there is a human benefit in smart grid.



Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Architecture, Green, Lists, Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
February 23rd, 2010

Remodel Your Business Through Relationships

As you might have already heard, more negative news for residential remodeling was released last week with the announcement of new figures from the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Remodeling Market Index (RMI). According to the updated RMI, the market conditions index fell to 36.4 from 39.8 in the third quarter.

http://uglyhousephotos.com/wordpress

http://uglyhousephotos.com/wordpress

The RMI measures remodeler perceptions of market demand for current and future residential remodeling projects. Any number below 50 indicates that more remodelers say market conditions are getting worse than report improving conditions. The RMI has been running below 50 since the final quarter of 2005.

These figures, measuring perceptions of the remodelers, contradict the most recent Lowe’s earnings report and leading industry indicator, the 2010 Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA). In January, the LIRA forecasted consumer spending to grow up to $105.5 million in the first quarter and rise to $107.6 million in second quarter 2010.

Just because current remodeler perceptions continue to dip doesn’t mean that a rebound isn’t possible, it will just take time, and more proof of an impending recovery. Maybe we just need an attitude adjustment? As we wait for more positive news, here are a few easy tips to help remodelers, and other battle-tested professionals, build new relationships that will support the future of their business:

1. Join Regional Building Groups – Regional building groups are a great way to grow local roots. Development of friendships with regional builders and architects offers the opportunity for referrals and other mutually beneficial, long-term relationships.

2. National Association Membership – Membership with national associations like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), allows for the sharing of case studies, best practice for marketing your business and opportunities for continuing education. Many trade associations, like NARI, do a great job of adding value to members with real benefits, including industry research, public recognition, certification and most importantly, lead generation services. And most likely you’ll find dues cheaper than they were a few years ago.

3. Trade Show Attendance (Regional and National) – Attendance at trade shows are a terrific opportunity to, again network with peers, but in addition, take advantage of developing relationships with product manufacturers and suppliers. These folks will be able to keep remodelers up to speed on the latest products and trends and help customers with personalized services, including discounted pricing.

4. Customer Referrals – Maintain regular “check-ins” with past customers. Staying connected with past clientele keeps you top-of-mind for future projects and those customers are more likely to refer you to friends and family. This can be done through a simple phone call or sending a regular eNewseltter to past and potential clients.

5. Social Marketing – Using online applications like LinkedIn and Facebook can be a great, inexpensive way to gather customer testimonials/recommendations into a single mainstream, intuitive channel. It’s also a great way to attract new customers if the channels are used properly and align with your business strategy.

So what have you found to be a successful marketing strategy in this tough market?

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
November 9th, 2009

Countdown: Reporting Live From Greenbuild

 

Complements of USGBC

Complements of USGBC

GreenIntel is less than 48 hours away from reporting live from Greenbuild 2009. Be sure to follow us on Twitter at @GreenIntel (#Greenbuild) where we’ll be posting the stats and info you’ll want to know about our rapidly changing industry.

Here’s some of the sessions and events we’ll be tweeting from:

  • Keynote address, former Vice President, Al Gore
  • A view of sustainability from the C-Suite of Corporate America
  • The value of Energy Star
  • The latest era of Greenwash
  • How historic preservation goes green
  • …and more.

    • greenintel1We will also be posting images throughout the event here on Build Intel – so check back frequently and enjoy the view from Greenbuild without even leaving your office.



Tags: , , ,
Posted in Green, Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
November 2nd, 2009

Help Us Define Sustainability

sus - tain - able?

We’ve got a question we’re hoping you can answer.

Green Intel attended a learning session at West Coast Green last month and the first question for the panel was “How do you define green? What about sustainability?”

The panel was made up of architects and building product manufacturers and every answer was so different that the idea of marketing as anything as simply being green or sustainable for that matter seemed ludicrous. What does that even mean?

So we’re wondering.

How do you define green? How do you define sustainability?

Comment to post your definition - we are going to gather everyone’s comments to create one collective definition, once and for all.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Green, Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
October 28th, 2009

Industry Insider: The Future of Remodeling

1013-45_banner_build_industryinsider

We were unable to make the Remodeling Show this year, so we called one of our favorite remodelers and recognized leader of the green building movement to shed some light on the future of the remodeling industry.

michael_smallMichael Anschel (@MichaelAnschel) is the owner and principal of Otogawa-Anschel Design Build, an award-winning design and build firm in Minnesota.  Among other professional affiliations, Michael is vice-chair of the board of directors of Minnesota GreenStar and CEO of Verified Green, Inc., which consults with builders, remodelers, architects, and state and city officials on green building.


I believe the remodeling industry is going through a significant change right now, and I feel it is a change for the better.  There is a convergence of forces which could produce the perfect storm for change.

Remodelers
For decades the industry has been a mixed bag of artisans, philosophers, and scoundrels, few of whom intentionally set out to become remodelers.  They set their own schedules, made their own rules, and there was a less than 50/50 chance that the work would be performed properly (if at all).  Over the last decade we have seen a massive wave of professionalism sweep over the industry as remodelers began to take ownership of their industry and companies sought to differentiate themselves from their less savory counterparts.  Education and professional designations offered by industry associations became all the rage, and soon remodelers were on committees, serving on boards, and working to raise the bar for everyone.  The huge boom in the remodeling market didn’t hurt things either, encouraging a whole new breed and generation of remodeler to come on the scene.  The number of remodelers who hold an MBA or spent significant time in corporate America is larger than ever, and their approach to business is, well, business like.  Marketing, metrics, accountability, process… these are all the hot topics at tradeshows like The Remodeling Show, taking place this week in Indianapolis.

Government
Rules and regulations may not be words loved by many, but it has its place in our society, and is increasingly being applied to the work done on existing homes.  The requirement for licensing of contractors, continuing education, and energy-specific education requirements is moving to more states.  New laws regarding the discovery and mitigation of lead and radon are in place.  Tax credits are tied to performance and testing requirements are opening the doors for cities and states to build new minimum requirements for construction and development.  Perhaps most importantly, both the federal and local units of government are finally looking at our existing housing stock as part of the solution/problem.

Global consciousness on environment
There has been enormous progress made in the last few years in acknowledging and taking steps to address our place in the natural world and the changes that are coming.  The interest in green building has been steadily growing over the years and I am increasingly encouraged by the number of remodelers of all ages and regions who come to my lectures and express not only great excitement, but an increased understanding of what it really means to think and act with sustainability in mind.  The number of products that have entered the mainstream has dramatically improved in just the past year.  These new introductions have improved the ease and cost for remodelers to build green, which increases the number of remodelers who are more comfortable talking green with homeowners in a positive, rather than dismissive, tone.

spengler-024

The Perfect Storm
The convergence of professionalism and businesses run on systems, political will, and broad consumer interest.  Increased understanding in green accross the board suggests that we are truly on the verge of an explosion of green building that will change the way we remodel forever.  The relationship between the built environment (structure) and the natural environment (us) has a real opportunity to improve.  Those remodelers who embrace it and take the time to learn how to work with it, rather than against it, will be well ahead of their counterparts in the years to come.  The future of remodeling has never looked brighter (or greener)!

For more from Michael, read his Remodeling Magazine blog.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
September 15th, 2009

Water Efficiency: Green Building’s Dark Horse

The importance of energy efficiency has become highly standardized and widespread among the green building industry. We all recognize the effects energy use has on air pollution and global climate change, but what about its drain on our natural resources?


Water efficiency, though commonly overlooked, is now becoming a major global concern. As stated by the Environmental Protection Agency, “about 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, but only 1% is available for human use.” That 1% is continuously being depleted, which is why it’s crucial that we embrace water efficient practices. It’s time to bring the connection between energy and water efficiency to the forefront of green building dialogue before this dark horse runs dry.


The good news is that water efficiency standards are now being set higher, so contractors, builders and architects have the opportunity to lead the charge in conserving our limited amount of water. Following are two stand out initiatives from the EPA’s Office of Water highlighted in a speech by Michael Shapiro, its Acting Assistant Administrator, that pave the way for new levels of water efficiency in green building.

wslogo

  • WaterSense Certification and products – Think of WaterSense as the buzzword for water efficient products, just as Energy Star is to energy efficient products. The goal of the WaterSense program is to reduce water use across the country by creating an identifiable label for water-efficient products. In the three years since its formation, WaterSense labeled products are estimated to have over 277 million gallons of water per year. In the near future, look for the WaterSense “New Homes” label that raises the bar in home water efficiency by combining water-efficient products, enhancing design features, and providing education to homeowners.

  • Green Infrastructure Initiative – This strategy is based upon building storm water management systems that mimic natural hydrology. For members of the building industry, green infrastructure practice will include elements such as rain gardens, porous pavements, green roofs and cisterns. See the green infrastructure initiative in action in Chicago.


Along with these efforts to save on water use, we have to mention a no brainer, which leads us back to energy efficiency. Energy generation is one of the main culprits of excessive water use, so if we reduce our overall energy consumption, water efficiency will follow. Energy Star suggests taking advantage of organizations such as Portfolio Manager to track water and energy use together. By doing so, builders have the ability to track and assess the correlation between energy and water consumption. The proof is in the numbers, so learn what Portfolio Manager can do for your business today.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Green, Lists, Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
September 10th, 2009

Industry Insider: Data, Trends and a Plan

raritaninnnov2007Our Industry Insider today is the esteemed Bill Asdal, owner of Asdal Builders and chair of the Industry Committee of the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH).  Recognized for his outstanding construction and remodeling work, including his induction into the Remodeling Hall of Fame in 2007, Bill has recently won national acclaim as an innovator in the green building industry (2006 Green Advocate of the Year by the Green Building Conference).  Pay attention, because this former teacher has a new lesson on planning to match the times, so get your facts straight.  Even if the mood is blight, Bill demonstrates how data can help make your future bright.  He must have been a good defensive coordinator too, because he has a proven strategy to fight off the next ground attack…


Facts are fascinating.  I have long had interest in facts in general, and since being in business, a sharp focus on those that could impact my operations.  Collect sufficient facts and you may be able to spot a pattern, or trend.  Trend analysis can help shape your business plan to minimize risk and maximize the likelihood of financial success.  After all, the reason for being in business is to make money.

During the past decades in business I have collected facts about regulatory burden of being in business, particularly the building business.  The trend is down for a positive business climate.  I see no end in sight to the growth of regulation.  It will take upheaval to stop or reverse this condition.

The facts about growth of government are evident in the number of employees.  There are more, a lot more.  The burden of government in payroll, benefits, unfunded mandates, retirement plans, and services has exploded.  There is no politician in sight who raises the specter of restraint much less contrition.  This would be good news to those who need a public job however this growth needs to be paid for by taxes.  The growth of government and taxes is a bad sign.

Debt has grown geometrically in the public sector.  Debt is an anchor to real growth and ultimately economic stability.  Inflated currency pays off debt with cheaper dollars.  This spring China recommended the world create a new global currency to replace the dollar.  These are not “good” facts.  The long trend of housing growth 1991-2007 seemed endless.  So does a stable currency today manipulated by the Fed, but inflation could pop just like the housing bubble.

The data I collect is ominous. The patterns I see are threatening.  The trends are troubling.  In order to stay in business you need a plan to match the times.  The time-tested old business plans can be tossed out.  It’s a new day.   Rather than plan for maximizing the upside, I believe you need to continue to protect against the worst case downside.  Defensive planning and execution is in order.

Another round of mortgage troubles may be on the horizon.  The sub-par mortgage collapse could easily be dwarfed by upcoming resets on mortgages put in place in recent years.  I am collecting data on plenty of folks who made it so far in this downturn, but are really stressed to the max and may not make it accelerating the decline. Our local coffee shop is off 40%, many small businesses are on the edge, and offices I visit, though open, are staffed at 40%.  More are just now about to close.  How will your business fare if the decline continues?  I have been saying for a number of years that “the big one” is coming and we are now in the front end of it.  This could be generational.  This could change the economy as we know it permanently.  And the tax burden, debt, and growth of government can crush much of what is left of small business.

It is time to gather your own data within your business sphere.  Find facts that help you shape a defensible opinion.  The more facts the more likely your opinion is valid. The quality of your data inputted is critical.  Working on the basis of a few bar room anecdotes would be irresponsible.  Some facts are gathered by others and readily accessible, others you may have to work to construct.  Look for your own patterns within these facts.  Are there patterns over longer time spans?  Do these patterns repeat? Once you find them is there anything you can do to impact the trend or are you relegated to simply react to it?  Professional stock traders will look at both a technical analysis and a fundamental analysis of a market.  Technical would be watching a chart of data, and by analyzing the shape of the trend lines, attempting to predict future moves.  Fundamental changes take place when news or events occur and affect a market.  Analysis of chart patterns is helpful to a crisp understanding.  You are not relying on stock chart patterns but those more specific to your operations.

At this point in your analysis you have a grounded opinion, along with business skills, that position you to plan for success.  Write the plan that will allow you and your business to survive.  Hopefully you will be ready for the next shoe to drop.


Bill has written and published materials expertly advising builders and remodelers on successfully managing their businesses.  You can learn more from Bill here.

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
July 21st, 2009

DesignIntelligence Names Top 3 Green Role Models

Here’s why you should know them.

On the heels of the 2009 DesignIntelligence Sustainable Design Survey, which draws data from architecture and design firms throughout the United States, we thought we would give you a run down of the top  3 green design role models and why you should care.

Top 3 green and sustainable design role models:

1. William McDonough

2. Ed Mazria

  • Executive Director of Architecture 2030
  • Issued the 2030 Challenge, calling for all new buildings and major renovations to reduce their fossil-fuel GHG-emitting consumption by 50% by 2010
  • The 2030 Challenge has been widely adopted throughout the building industry, and incorporated into city, state and federal legislation.
  • Congress now requires all federal buildings meet the 2030 Challenge targets

3. Bob Berkebile


Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Green, Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
July 16th, 2009

BD&C Names Top 150 Green Design Firms, Top 75 Green Contractors

picture-3

Building, Design & Construction editors recently released their Giants 300 report - the annual culmination of  the editors’ review of the architecture, engineering, and construction firms in the nonresidential building industry across the country.

A sign of the times - this year was the first time they named the top 150 Green Design Firms and Top 75 Green Contractors. Evidence that the rapid adoption of green building is putting AEC professionals/organizations in the spotlight and positively impacting their bottom lines.

According to BD&C, the top 5 green design firms are:

1 Gensler 409,365,000
2 Perkins+Will 200,000,000
3 HOK 195,520,000
4 AECOM Technology Corp. 114,352,200
5 HDR Architecture

98,426,000

As for the top 5 green contractors, its no surprise Turner came up on top - they have been participating in the green conversation and lead the way in publishing green building studies over the past few years. But its interesting to see who else is topping the list - while green is not necessarily what they’re leading with, when they do it they do it well.

1 Turner 3,033,400,000
2 Webcor Builders 2,270,332,162
3 Hensel Phelps Construction 2,102,310,000
4 Whiting-Turner Contracting Co. 1,969,034,712
5 Clark Group 1,890,450,000

Get all the stats  - dilineated by profession, sector and expertise here.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Green, Remodeling
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
April 30th, 2009

Association Members Only

These days, professional remodelers, contractors, builders, architects and product manufacturers alike are all trying to get a leg up on the competition. They’re looking for those differentiators that make potential customers choose them over the long list of competitors. A professional association is one of the best ways to do this. Sure it might be an expensive commitment, but if you do the work, the returns are far greater than the investment.

nari_logoNo matter how niche your business is, there is most likely an association out there for you. One professional association that has done very well is the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Despite economic conditions, NARI continues to grow and provide fresh tools to their membership like marketing programs and a host of internal educational resources.

“NARI recently began a national marketing campaign that aims to drive homeowners to member Web sites and also has taken affiliation with other associations to provide remodelers with the best information possible,” said Renee Rewiski, National Chairman of the Board, NARI.

NARI also works with independent homeowner/service provider matchmakers and has online member resources like The Learning Center that offers virtual study groups and Tuffen’ It Out, a member program for sharing best practices.

Overall, associations, no matter what field or specialty, are the perfect way to gain useful industry insight, promote/grow your business and continue to learn about advancements in the field.

When considering professional association, here are a couple things to keep in mind:

  • What do they do to raise the profile of the trade and member services?
  • Does the group offer meetings, conferences or other opportunities for networking?
  • Is continuing education or other industry certification offered?
  • Can you promote your company through any member outlets?
  • How do they support the community and local businesses?

Large or small, make sure the association serves your business/career needs. And if you’re not sure, ask your peers, or go online and see what others are saying. Believe us when we tell you that there are plenty of people willing to talk.

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Commercial, Green, Remodeling, Residential
Permalink

Bookmark and Share
« Older Entries
© 2009   |   Terms of Use imre.com  |   Home Intel