January 2009: Full Contact Project Management

Words: Dan KamysJanuary 2009 Full Contact Project Management
?????? Masonry Magazine project management

A Plan for a New Year and New Economy

If we've heard anything at all during the last political season, it has been the word "change." We've also heard a lot of talk about "hope." What does it all mean? Moreover, what does it mean to us?

Regarding the nation's economy and its outlook, I don't pretend to know what will happen. I will freely admit that everything I voted for or against did not turn out the way I wanted. I know that I'd like to have hope, and I will. But I'm a realist, and know my impact on the nation's economy and politics will be minimal, however unfortunate that might be. But as far as my business goes, I know I've got to do a lot more than just hope, and so do you, if you want to remain in your business.

I'm sure you've heard that one before. If you haven't, write it down, stare at it daily, and completely take it to heart. And, if you do know that saying, it's time for a reality check: Bad stuff is going to happen to a lot of people and businesses you know. And, Coach is telling you to get back onto the field, play your hearts out, and be prepared to leave everything on the field.

Coach Gary reminds:

"If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always gotten."

Look, there are lots of scared people out there. Things are in somewhat of an uproar. And, if all you do is the same old thing, the same old way, for the same old people, with the same old crew, you might end up as a casualty of the times.

Take a good, hard look at your business. What can you do to increase revenues? What can you do to decrease expenses? Look outside of the box, and outside of your own neighborhood. Maybe you should implement some of those ideas you've been considering for the last couple of years, but have been hesitant to try.

From here, I can't tell you what new sources of business make the most sense for you. But, I think you know. It's there in the back of your mind. I can tell you, without hesitation, that you can "stop the bleeding" that your project job costs are taking.


Coach Gary's Corner:

Check out the free audio updates and other info that will help your projects. Also, you can get Coach Gary's book, "Get Paid for a Change!"

Return to Table of Contents
The Importance of Instructor Support
April 2026

Whether you are a new or veteran masonry instructor, we all need support throughout our careers. We can never stop learning, and keeping up with ever-changing technology, materials, and installation techniques can be overwhelming alongside the everyday pr

Vibing Masonry #11: Innovative Concrete Masonry Technologies in Healthcare Design
April 2026

In the high-stakes environment of healthcare design, every material choice is a clinical decision. Architects, engineers, and facility administrators are tasked with creating spaces that are not only resilient and code-compliant but also conducive to heal

Why Termination Bars Still Matter: A Practical Look at Long‑Term Flashing Performance
April 2026

In recent discussions across the masonry industry, I have heard termination bars described as “old school.” The implication is that with modern materials, primerless peel-and-stick flashings, advanced sealants, and structural insulated sheathing, mechanic

Building Solutions: The Critical Role of Cavity Space in Masonry Moisture Control
April 2026

Long before “rainscreen” became a popular term in building science, masonry cavity walls were functioning on that very principle. A brick veneer cavity wall is designed with the expectation that water will penetrate the exterior