I'm writing this from a very large conference room in Phoenix at the AIA KLA meeting. We ar working on developing a strategy for AIA's Knowledge Communities. I'm very interested in seeing where this goes and contributing.
The weather is interesting. The high temperature is supposed to be 110 degrees to day and 115 on Saturday when I leave. I don't think I packed enough shirts.
See you soon.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
MasterFormat 1995 Obituary
I hope many of you were able to travel to CONSTRUCT2009 and the CSI Show last week. One of the more interesting things that happened at the Board Meeting on Tuesday was a recommendation to discontinue support and pull the licenses for MasterFormat 1995 Edition at the end of the 2009 calendar year.
The bottom line for users is that the master guide specifications will only be available in the 2004 version in 2010. The MF2004 numbers and titles came out five years ago. The hardcopy became available for purchase in November 2004. So, the Board's decision reflects that a five year transition period is sufficient. So, here's your six month warning.
While this may cause some pain for those who have refused to transition to the more robust version, it eliminates the need for pubishers to continue producing two versions of their product. One of the reasons we were inclined to make this decision, was a lunch presentation by one of our integrators, who described their new product and indicated it would only be available in the 2004 Edition.
I think the light went on above everyone's head. If you're going to develop and promote a standard, then you should stand behind and support it. You can't have two vastly different versions of the standard on the street for an indefinite period of time. Dennis Hall and I, along with two members of the Indianapolis Chapter met with some folks from the state of Indiana last Wednesday. We wanted to let them know, while we were their what was happening well in advance, so they could plan an orderly transition.
I look forward to your comments. See you soon.
The bottom line for users is that the master guide specifications will only be available in the 2004 version in 2010. The MF2004 numbers and titles came out five years ago. The hardcopy became available for purchase in November 2004. So, the Board's decision reflects that a five year transition period is sufficient. So, here's your six month warning.
While this may cause some pain for those who have refused to transition to the more robust version, it eliminates the need for pubishers to continue producing two versions of their product. One of the reasons we were inclined to make this decision, was a lunch presentation by one of our integrators, who described their new product and indicated it would only be available in the 2004 Edition.
I think the light went on above everyone's head. If you're going to develop and promote a standard, then you should stand behind and support it. You can't have two vastly different versions of the standard on the street for an indefinite period of time. Dennis Hall and I, along with two members of the Indianapolis Chapter met with some folks from the state of Indiana last Wednesday. We wanted to let them know, while we were their what was happening well in advance, so they could plan an orderly transition.
I look forward to your comments. See you soon.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
The truth about the Ohio Construction Reform Panel
There has been a lot of newspaper coverage about the recommendations of the construction reform panel in the past few days. I firmly believe that the writers are trying to capture the facts of a very complex issue in such a way that their readers will be interested. Unfortunately, there are several articles that have an error here or there that changes the meaning entirely.
I've also read a number of blog entries or comments on the articles that don't grasp the issues as well as they should, or could. A number of these deal with the incentive issues. Some of them discuss the nature of the project delivery methods. There have also been several letters written to our political leaders that, while intended to express concern, do not address the facts of the report. They warn of the elimination of competitive bidding and waste of taxpayer dollars.
I would suggest that the best way for those of us actually involved in the design and construction industry to understand the recommendations, is to obtain and read the report. My intent with this post is not to try and influence your thinking in any way. I merely wish to point you to the unfiltered information and allow you the opportunity to make up your own mind. The report is available on the State Architect's Web site at www.ohio.gov/sao and if you click on the green box on the upper left corner under the banner, you can download a PDF copy.
The truth about the panel is that a very diverse group of individuals representing a wide array of constituencies got together, discussed how to improve the ways the state manages the public construction process in Ohio, and actually agreed on enough items to provide meaningful reform. The panel was also very interested in seeing how the recommendations would be implemented and demanded to see the legislative language before they would finalize the report.
The bottom line is a carefully negotiated set of recommendations that are incredibly integrated and provide the first chance for meaningful change in this industry in our state. The panel members have agreed to work together to pass the legislation intact. If someone starts picking at loose threads, the whole garment could begin to unravel. This isn't a plan that would work anywhere but our state. The elements are unique to Ohio.
Read the report, make your own decision about it, and let's move our state into the 21st Century. See you soon.
I've also read a number of blog entries or comments on the articles that don't grasp the issues as well as they should, or could. A number of these deal with the incentive issues. Some of them discuss the nature of the project delivery methods. There have also been several letters written to our political leaders that, while intended to express concern, do not address the facts of the report. They warn of the elimination of competitive bidding and waste of taxpayer dollars.
I would suggest that the best way for those of us actually involved in the design and construction industry to understand the recommendations, is to obtain and read the report. My intent with this post is not to try and influence your thinking in any way. I merely wish to point you to the unfiltered information and allow you the opportunity to make up your own mind. The report is available on the State Architect's Web site at www.ohio.gov/sao and if you click on the green box on the upper left corner under the banner, you can download a PDF copy.
The truth about the panel is that a very diverse group of individuals representing a wide array of constituencies got together, discussed how to improve the ways the state manages the public construction process in Ohio, and actually agreed on enough items to provide meaningful reform. The panel was also very interested in seeing how the recommendations would be implemented and demanded to see the legislative language before they would finalize the report.
The bottom line is a carefully negotiated set of recommendations that are incredibly integrated and provide the first chance for meaningful change in this industry in our state. The panel members have agreed to work together to pass the legislation intact. If someone starts picking at loose threads, the whole garment could begin to unravel. This isn't a plan that would work anywhere but our state. The elements are unique to Ohio.
Read the report, make your own decision about it, and let's move our state into the 21st Century. See you soon.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Home sweet home
Well, as much as I enjoyed the jaunt to Arlington, I am so glad to be back in the 'burg. One of the highlights of the trip was a visit from my "little" brother, Chief Master Sergeant Dennis Beougher, and his wife, Elma. They relocated from Vandenberg Air Base in California to Andrews over the Christmas holiday, and are living near Mount Vernon south of Alexandria.
They were able to join us after dinner as we socialized for a while in the hotel watering hole. It's always a good way to conclude the day's work with friends in a comfortable setting. There are some who say the real business happens there and not in the boardroom. In any case it's good to learn more about our comrades that cannot be done during the meetings.
I am pleased with my assignments, and really can't discuss as they aren't final until the sitting Board ratifies them in June. We also have a bit more to discuss regarding the standing committee and task team assignments, and have a webinar scheduled for next Monday.
The flight back was on time and uneventful, except for a little jostling during the landing. Temperature was a bit cooler than when I left on Friday, and my sport coat was woefully inadequate. Hit the house by ten, unpacked and in bed on the regular schedule to make my normal 8:30 a.m. senior staff meeting.
I empathize with my fellow Board-elect members who live much farther away and particularly with Sheryl Dodd-Hansen, who told me that she spent most of her flight to California sick in the lavatory. I've been there before and it's not much fun (being sick that is, not California). I hope everyone else arrived home safely and look forward to seeing them again in Indy.
Speaking of which, I hope to see a great turn-out from my Great Lakes Region. This is a fantastic opportunity for those of you who may not have been to a convention before. Indianapolis is a great city with a phenomenal CSI chapter. I know they've spent a great deal of time planning a number of special events for us. See you soon.
They were able to join us after dinner as we socialized for a while in the hotel watering hole. It's always a good way to conclude the day's work with friends in a comfortable setting. There are some who say the real business happens there and not in the boardroom. In any case it's good to learn more about our comrades that cannot be done during the meetings.
I am pleased with my assignments, and really can't discuss as they aren't final until the sitting Board ratifies them in June. We also have a bit more to discuss regarding the standing committee and task team assignments, and have a webinar scheduled for next Monday.
The flight back was on time and uneventful, except for a little jostling during the landing. Temperature was a bit cooler than when I left on Friday, and my sport coat was woefully inadequate. Hit the house by ten, unpacked and in bed on the regular schedule to make my normal 8:30 a.m. senior staff meeting.
I empathize with my fellow Board-elect members who live much farther away and particularly with Sheryl Dodd-Hansen, who told me that she spent most of her flight to California sick in the lavatory. I've been there before and it's not much fun (being sick that is, not California). I hope everyone else arrived home safely and look forward to seeing them again in Indy.
Speaking of which, I hope to see a great turn-out from my Great Lakes Region. This is a fantastic opportunity for those of you who may not have been to a convention before. Indianapolis is a great city with a phenomenal CSI chapter. I know they've spent a great deal of time planning a number of special events for us. See you soon.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
History in the making
As I sit here in a hotel meeting room in Arlington, Virginia with the members of the FY2010 CSI Board, I am excited by the historic nature of this first ever Board-elect meeting. Last year, as in prior years, the Executive Committee performed the tasks we are undertaking. This year, as we move from a 29-member Board to a horizontal 21-member Board without an ExCom, the entire Board will participate in this process. We'll continue reducing our number to 18 in FY2012.
We started right on schedule as promised by President-elect Mike Davis. Mike has a very direct style of leadership and I expect we're going to accomplish great things. Yesterday, we received a very detailed orientation, as well as an update on the Strategic Planning process that will be presented to the members at the convention in Indianapolis.
Today, Walt Marlowe is giving us a presentation on his priorities for programs and projects for the coming year. After that, we'll begin to assemble the standing committees and task teams for the coming year. We'll also try to find a place for all of the members of the Board on the Committees of the Board and as liaisons to the committees and task teams.
This may be one of the more challenging activities of the weekend. Prior to the email that featured Mike Davis as Uncle Sam, there were only 19 members that requested appointment to committees. After the email was distributed, we now have close to 80 applications. Discerning the talents of each of the applicants from a spreadsheet will be a difficult assignment. My hope is that someone on the Board-elect will be able to champion each member and we can assign the most qualified members for each committee.
Well, I need to focus on the tasks at hand and will do my best to represent the interest of all CSI members as I move from an Institute DIrector to Vice President. See you soon.
We started right on schedule as promised by President-elect Mike Davis. Mike has a very direct style of leadership and I expect we're going to accomplish great things. Yesterday, we received a very detailed orientation, as well as an update on the Strategic Planning process that will be presented to the members at the convention in Indianapolis.
Today, Walt Marlowe is giving us a presentation on his priorities for programs and projects for the coming year. After that, we'll begin to assemble the standing committees and task teams for the coming year. We'll also try to find a place for all of the members of the Board on the Committees of the Board and as liaisons to the committees and task teams.
This may be one of the more challenging activities of the weekend. Prior to the email that featured Mike Davis as Uncle Sam, there were only 19 members that requested appointment to committees. After the email was distributed, we now have close to 80 applications. Discerning the talents of each of the applicants from a spreadsheet will be a difficult assignment. My hope is that someone on the Board-elect will be able to champion each member and we can assign the most qualified members for each committee.
Well, I need to focus on the tasks at hand and will do my best to represent the interest of all CSI members as I move from an Institute DIrector to Vice President. See you soon.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
YESSSSS!!!!!!! 2.0
Well, I received my second phone call from John Patrick McCaffrey within the space of a week with great news. He told me I've been elected Vice President - Professional of the Construction Specifications Institute!
I want to congratulate Bob Dye on his excellently run campaign. Bob called me yesterday and offered his best wishes and assistance. We had a good chat and I encouraged him to stay involved and leverage what we've both learned during the election. I also told him his CSI 2.0 label made me wish I'd thought of it. Perhaps we can work that into the branding of CSI in our developing new strategic plan.
Bob's assertive tactics had me hearing footsteps and I wasn't sure if they were in front or behind me, so I just ran as hard as I could. One positive result of the increased campaign activity was that voter turnout increased from less than 20 percent of eligible voters to 24.8 percent. So for me, the big winner is CSI and its members.
I look forward to working with FY2010 President Mike Davis and serving as the first officer of CSI elected from the Columbus Chapter in its 51 year history. As we transition to a smaller board, it is critically important that we change the way we operate as well as our physical size. Since Sheryl and I have been thinking and talking about this for over a year on GRITT, we are well positioned to provide the benefit of our discussions to the new Board.
I've booked my flight to the Board-elect meeting at the end of March and look forward to serving on the first Board without an executive committee. There is much work to do.
I also want to thank everyone who supported my candidacy and those 62 percent of you that gave me your vote. Thank you for all that you do for CSI. See you soon.
I want to congratulate Bob Dye on his excellently run campaign. Bob called me yesterday and offered his best wishes and assistance. We had a good chat and I encouraged him to stay involved and leverage what we've both learned during the election. I also told him his CSI 2.0 label made me wish I'd thought of it. Perhaps we can work that into the branding of CSI in our developing new strategic plan.
Bob's assertive tactics had me hearing footsteps and I wasn't sure if they were in front or behind me, so I just ran as hard as I could. One positive result of the increased campaign activity was that voter turnout increased from less than 20 percent of eligible voters to 24.8 percent. So for me, the big winner is CSI and its members.
I look forward to working with FY2010 President Mike Davis and serving as the first officer of CSI elected from the Columbus Chapter in its 51 year history. As we transition to a smaller board, it is critically important that we change the way we operate as well as our physical size. Since Sheryl and I have been thinking and talking about this for over a year on GRITT, we are well positioned to provide the benefit of our discussions to the new Board.
I've booked my flight to the Board-elect meeting at the end of March and look forward to serving on the first Board without an executive committee. There is much work to do.
I also want to thank everyone who supported my candidacy and those 62 percent of you that gave me your vote. Thank you for all that you do for CSI. See you soon.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
YESSSSS!!!!!!!
Well, it's been nearly 24 hours (have to deduct one for DST) since I received a phone call from Institute Secretary John Patrick McCaffrey at 1:28 p.m., to let me know I'd been elected a Fellow in CSI.
My first call was to my wife within 10 minutes to let her know. I also called Sheryl Dodd-Hansen, my number one cheerleader in this effort. She was at the West Region mid-year meeting with Paulette Salisbury, my official mentor and good friend. I spoke to her after the meeting later that evening. After that, I tried to keep working for a while (in the office on a beautiful Saturday afternoon - what's wrong with me?), but I kept losing my concentration. I have no idea why.
When two hours had passed, I started calling my 15 endorsers and the chapter leaders who had helped me. This is not a one man endeavor, even for an overly independent contrarian like me. I got in touch with most of the folks for whom I had a personal number. I'll try to call the rest on Monday.
But let me just enthusiastically say; "THANKS!!!"
I also talked to my Mom and Dad and let them know the good news. Told them to pack their bags, 'cause they're going to Indianapolis in June. One of the reasons I really wanted to submit this year is that the convention is in my backyard. It's about three hours from Columbus and an hour more from Zanesville, where they live. They're in good health, but Dad will be 71 in June and I'm not sure how many more long trips he's up for.
Saturday night I called Sheryl again to say that I couldn't really remember the call from John. I do remember that my first response was a chuckle, or perhaps a giggle. I'm still tickled by seeing Mike Davis as Uncle Sam...
Anyway, I've been trying to figure out if I could tell anyone, when I noticed Sheryl posted a congratulatory message on my Facebook wall. So much for keeping it a secret - just kidding.
I don't know all the members of the Class of 2009, but I can't wait to see the announcement from CSI. I know of several friends who submitted and I wish them nothing but the best.
I'm still floating a little bit, but am starting to feel it sink in. I'm going to need new business cards in June. I'd better start handing out a few more in the meantime. The waiting reminds me of my brother's plight. He made Chief Master Sergeant last February, but couldn't "sew on" his new stripe until August.
Well, this has been fun, but it's back to reality. My wife's car died on Friday, and I have to go play mechanic. See you soon!
My first call was to my wife within 10 minutes to let her know. I also called Sheryl Dodd-Hansen, my number one cheerleader in this effort. She was at the West Region mid-year meeting with Paulette Salisbury, my official mentor and good friend. I spoke to her after the meeting later that evening. After that, I tried to keep working for a while (in the office on a beautiful Saturday afternoon - what's wrong with me?), but I kept losing my concentration. I have no idea why.
When two hours had passed, I started calling my 15 endorsers and the chapter leaders who had helped me. This is not a one man endeavor, even for an overly independent contrarian like me. I got in touch with most of the folks for whom I had a personal number. I'll try to call the rest on Monday.
But let me just enthusiastically say; "THANKS!!!"
I also talked to my Mom and Dad and let them know the good news. Told them to pack their bags, 'cause they're going to Indianapolis in June. One of the reasons I really wanted to submit this year is that the convention is in my backyard. It's about three hours from Columbus and an hour more from Zanesville, where they live. They're in good health, but Dad will be 71 in June and I'm not sure how many more long trips he's up for.
Saturday night I called Sheryl again to say that I couldn't really remember the call from John. I do remember that my first response was a chuckle, or perhaps a giggle. I'm still tickled by seeing Mike Davis as Uncle Sam...
Anyway, I've been trying to figure out if I could tell anyone, when I noticed Sheryl posted a congratulatory message on my Facebook wall. So much for keeping it a secret - just kidding.
I don't know all the members of the Class of 2009, but I can't wait to see the announcement from CSI. I know of several friends who submitted and I wish them nothing but the best.
I'm still floating a little bit, but am starting to feel it sink in. I'm going to need new business cards in June. I'd better start handing out a few more in the meantime. The waiting reminds me of my brother's plight. He made Chief Master Sergeant last February, but couldn't "sew on" his new stripe until August.
Well, this has been fun, but it's back to reality. My wife's car died on Friday, and I have to go play mechanic. See you soon!
Friday, March 6, 2009
Glad it's finally over!
By the clock on my computer, it is now 12:22 p.m. EST and the election has officially closed. We won't know the results for about another week, but I want to congratulate all the candidates for a good, clean, and fun race.
I think everyone showed that they are willing to work for the opportunity to serve and that should bring us some comfort that no matter who wins, we all want to be there.
And for those of who were annoyed by our communication, I do apologize for the intrusion. I think we all have a little fatigue related to elections after a two year presidential contest.
One of the results I'm interested in almost as much as who won, is who voted. We have seen a lackluster 20 percent or less in the last few years even with controversial issues on the ballot. Perhaps the excitement of the candidates transferred to the voters.
I did learn quite a bit. There are a few new tools in my communication portfolio and I'm not afraid to use them. I did learn that 5:00 a.m. may not be the best time of day to send a message. To those of you with Blackberrys, I am sorry I woke you up. Once I became aware of the issue, I scheduled my message much later in the day.
In any case, I'm glad it's over and all that's left is the counting. Thanks for everything you do for CSI! See you soon.
Lane
I think everyone showed that they are willing to work for the opportunity to serve and that should bring us some comfort that no matter who wins, we all want to be there.
And for those of who were annoyed by our communication, I do apologize for the intrusion. I think we all have a little fatigue related to elections after a two year presidential contest.
One of the results I'm interested in almost as much as who won, is who voted. We have seen a lackluster 20 percent or less in the last few years even with controversial issues on the ballot. Perhaps the excitement of the candidates transferred to the voters.
I did learn quite a bit. There are a few new tools in my communication portfolio and I'm not afraid to use them. I did learn that 5:00 a.m. may not be the best time of day to send a message. To those of you with Blackberrys, I am sorry I woke you up. Once I became aware of the issue, I scheduled my message much later in the day.
In any case, I'm glad it's over and all that's left is the counting. Thanks for everything you do for CSI! See you soon.
Lane
Friday, February 13, 2009
The times, they are a changin'
I've come to the realization that we can't stop progress, we can only delay it. I had resisted becoming entangled in the campaigning for CSI office that we're being bombarded with. But I finally decided that if I wanted the position, I was going to have to fight for it.
Long before the election began, someone pointed out my opponent's Web site. It quickly became apparent that if I wanted to stay in the race, I would need to get to work. Work is something I certainly don't shy away from. And as the veteran of four of my own political campaigns, and volunteering to help countless other colleagues, if I lose it isn't because I don't know how to win.
I know that this may seem distasteful to some of our long time members. That isn't the way it's done. However, the world is flattening and CSI is subject to that equalization as well. After all, aren't we all about communication? What's really wrong with taking our case to the members directly?
I suspect younger members are accustomed to the marketing efforts from every direction. It's part of the current culture. But those of us who have been around CSI for a while, haven't seen this before. In any case, I hope you find my message unobtrusive and easy to read. I tried to make it easy to opt out and let others help me make my case. I also made sure I respected the privacy of those who did not want to be communicated with in the first place. And I made absolutely certain that not a penny of CSI funds were spent at any level to communicate my message to the members.
I had a conversation with another board member a few days ago and noted that this new enthusiasm for just another election, could have the effect of revitalizing CSI. After all, who wants to belong to an organization no one is willing to duke it out to serve? Doesn't it inspire you that there are candidates for national office in your CSI that want to serve you so badly they invest their own blood, sweat, and tears to do so?
The point is to drive traffic to the CSI election site and remind members to look at the candidate statements, and finally to vote. If your upset with this tactic, please let me know, and please opt out on the link provided in my communication. At some point in the future, we're going to have to establish some ground rules. But as one of my colleagues pointed out recently, right now it's the Wild West.
In closing, let me just say that my primary goal here is to be elected, but a secondary side effect is that we could just have an election that has a reasonable turnout. We see way too much apathy in our political contests. My hope is that if you took the trouble to click through to this blog or to view my profile, then you will care enough about CSI to research the candidates and cast your vote. If that happens, we all win. See you soon.
Long before the election began, someone pointed out my opponent's Web site. It quickly became apparent that if I wanted to stay in the race, I would need to get to work. Work is something I certainly don't shy away from. And as the veteran of four of my own political campaigns, and volunteering to help countless other colleagues, if I lose it isn't because I don't know how to win.
I know that this may seem distasteful to some of our long time members. That isn't the way it's done. However, the world is flattening and CSI is subject to that equalization as well. After all, aren't we all about communication? What's really wrong with taking our case to the members directly?
I suspect younger members are accustomed to the marketing efforts from every direction. It's part of the current culture. But those of us who have been around CSI for a while, haven't seen this before. In any case, I hope you find my message unobtrusive and easy to read. I tried to make it easy to opt out and let others help me make my case. I also made sure I respected the privacy of those who did not want to be communicated with in the first place. And I made absolutely certain that not a penny of CSI funds were spent at any level to communicate my message to the members.
I had a conversation with another board member a few days ago and noted that this new enthusiasm for just another election, could have the effect of revitalizing CSI. After all, who wants to belong to an organization no one is willing to duke it out to serve? Doesn't it inspire you that there are candidates for national office in your CSI that want to serve you so badly they invest their own blood, sweat, and tears to do so?
The point is to drive traffic to the CSI election site and remind members to look at the candidate statements, and finally to vote. If your upset with this tactic, please let me know, and please opt out on the link provided in my communication. At some point in the future, we're going to have to establish some ground rules. But as one of my colleagues pointed out recently, right now it's the Wild West.
In closing, let me just say that my primary goal here is to be elected, but a secondary side effect is that we could just have an election that has a reasonable turnout. We see way too much apathy in our political contests. My hope is that if you took the trouble to click through to this blog or to view my profile, then you will care enough about CSI to research the candidates and cast your vote. If that happens, we all win. See you soon.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
How to vote in the CSI election
I hope that folks will vote for me because I am more qualified, rather than alphabetical order, most initials, physical beauty, or another equally arbitrary method.
I also hope the the candidate who is the best person for the position they are seeking will be elected, regardless of how motivated their network is. If I, or anyone, had to rely on the people we know to elect us, we'd better pack it in, because the democratic process is irreparably flawed. While I am acquainted with a lot of CSI members, no one can know absolutely all of them. For instance, I've been involved in CSI for 23 years and had never heard of my opponent.
I, for one, believe in the the electoral process, and the wisdom of the electorate. If anyone is going to cast a vote for someone because of the alphabet soup after their name, then I suggest they shouldn't vote. However, if you've thoroughly read the candidate statements and have analyzed who is best suited to lead CSI through difficult and turbulent times, then please do vote.
I also want to recommend you not vote for someone because they're a nice person, or they express an interest in learning more about how CSI governance works. We need seasoned leadership that knows what the heck they're doing now more than ever before. CSI is asking much from us and on-the-job training will not give us the leadership we need!
If you have a few ideas about how to increase membership, then join the membership committee. However, if you are prepared to sacrifice your personal life and make tough decisions that you may have to defend later to members that may not always agree with you, then perhaps you may be suited for leadership.
I would encourage everyone to closely examine the candidates' statements. We were given a scant 350 words to declare why we should be elected to the office we were nominated for. The differences are very interesting. I know the way they are posted on the Web site is not perfect, and we can work on changing that, but we have to use the established framework to be fair for this election cycle.
If you want to learn more about me and why I'm very well prepared to lead CSI, then I have profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook and even MySpace. I also linked my blog to the candidate site if you want to see where my head is, at any given moment. I don't think I need a Web site for self-promotion. Perhaps I'm wrong, but I question expending valuable resources to be elected to a volunteer position. I believe that would make some members question my fiscal judgement and restraint, as well they should.
Try Googling my name and see what shows up. Using the Advanced Search option and "exact wording or phrase" will give best results, otherwise you'll get 7,320 hits and they're not all mine. Narrowing it down will result in about 500, and they are me for the most part. My unusual name is a benefit for this. You'll see what I've been into the past few years both within and outside of CSI. A few of those relate to my hobby in genealogy as well as a few about my past career in local politics. I designed a Web site for each avocation a few years ago, but have been too involved in other things lately.
By the way, a lot of people are curious about my heritage and name. My father's family came from Switzerland in 1727, Bucher with an umlat "U" became Beougher. I tell folks my name is Boo'-kur, spelled B-E-O-U-G-H-E-R, just the way it sounds. That line is usually good for a chuckle and may be why I was elected to the CSI Audit Committee at my first board meeting. And yes, I am a serious guy with a sense of humor. With my name, you have to be.
I encourage all CSI voting members to research the candidates and become informed voters, then and only then should you cast your vote for the future of CSI. My best wishes go out to all of the candidates and may the best man (or woman) win.
I also hope the the candidate who is the best person for the position they are seeking will be elected, regardless of how motivated their network is. If I, or anyone, had to rely on the people we know to elect us, we'd better pack it in, because the democratic process is irreparably flawed. While I am acquainted with a lot of CSI members, no one can know absolutely all of them. For instance, I've been involved in CSI for 23 years and had never heard of my opponent.
I, for one, believe in the the electoral process, and the wisdom of the electorate. If anyone is going to cast a vote for someone because of the alphabet soup after their name, then I suggest they shouldn't vote. However, if you've thoroughly read the candidate statements and have analyzed who is best suited to lead CSI through difficult and turbulent times, then please do vote.
I also want to recommend you not vote for someone because they're a nice person, or they express an interest in learning more about how CSI governance works. We need seasoned leadership that knows what the heck they're doing now more than ever before. CSI is asking much from us and on-the-job training will not give us the leadership we need!
If you have a few ideas about how to increase membership, then join the membership committee. However, if you are prepared to sacrifice your personal life and make tough decisions that you may have to defend later to members that may not always agree with you, then perhaps you may be suited for leadership.
I would encourage everyone to closely examine the candidates' statements. We were given a scant 350 words to declare why we should be elected to the office we were nominated for. The differences are very interesting. I know the way they are posted on the Web site is not perfect, and we can work on changing that, but we have to use the established framework to be fair for this election cycle.
If you want to learn more about me and why I'm very well prepared to lead CSI, then I have profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook and even MySpace. I also linked my blog to the candidate site if you want to see where my head is, at any given moment. I don't think I need a Web site for self-promotion. Perhaps I'm wrong, but I question expending valuable resources to be elected to a volunteer position. I believe that would make some members question my fiscal judgement and restraint, as well they should.
Try Googling my name and see what shows up. Using the Advanced Search option and "exact wording or phrase" will give best results, otherwise you'll get 7,320 hits and they're not all mine. Narrowing it down will result in about 500, and they are me for the most part. My unusual name is a benefit for this. You'll see what I've been into the past few years both within and outside of CSI. A few of those relate to my hobby in genealogy as well as a few about my past career in local politics. I designed a Web site for each avocation a few years ago, but have been too involved in other things lately.
By the way, a lot of people are curious about my heritage and name. My father's family came from Switzerland in 1727, Bucher with an umlat "U" became Beougher. I tell folks my name is Boo'-kur, spelled B-E-O-U-G-H-E-R, just the way it sounds. That line is usually good for a chuckle and may be why I was elected to the CSI Audit Committee at my first board meeting. And yes, I am a serious guy with a sense of humor. With my name, you have to be.
I encourage all CSI voting members to research the candidates and become informed voters, then and only then should you cast your vote for the future of CSI. My best wishes go out to all of the candidates and may the best man (or woman) win.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Why vote for me?
Now that CSI has begun restructuring into a leaner governance model, it’s time for us to begin flexing our new muscle by focusing on initiatives related to the ongoing revolution in the construction industry. As the primary gateway to resources for programs, services, and the exchange of knowledge, CSI must respond to the challenges that building information modeling, integrated project delivery, energy efficiency, and resource conservation pose for designers, constructors, and owners, as well as the entire supply chain. We must also leverage our relationships with other organizations to realize our vision of becoming the premiere integrating force for creating and sustaining the built environment.
If the Institute is the body of CSI, and the chapters are its hands and feet, then the regions are its arms and legs. My vision for CSI is that of a strong, vibrant, and progressive organization with the whole greater than the sum of its parts, and a seamless support network to develop the next generation of leadership for our organization and the entire construction industry. Channels of communication must be refined to allow leaders and members instant access to the resources and information they need to operate their chapters and their businesses. We are only as strong as our weakest link and all levels must achieve operational excellence for us to realize our full potential.
The next few years will be critical during our transition to an 18-member board. Having served on the task team that developed the governance implementation plan, I will bring that experience and knowledge to bear as a vice president. As a former leader of my city council, and several other non-profit organizations, I bring the ability to work in collaborative groups to create positive change toward a shared strategic vision. I will leverage that ability with my knowledge of CSI’s technical programs and products to move our organization and the industry forward.
I look forward to working with you to build CSI into the outstanding organization that we all know it can be, should be, and must be. I respectfully ask for your vote for Institute vice president. See you soon.
If the Institute is the body of CSI, and the chapters are its hands and feet, then the regions are its arms and legs. My vision for CSI is that of a strong, vibrant, and progressive organization with the whole greater than the sum of its parts, and a seamless support network to develop the next generation of leadership for our organization and the entire construction industry. Channels of communication must be refined to allow leaders and members instant access to the resources and information they need to operate their chapters and their businesses. We are only as strong as our weakest link and all levels must achieve operational excellence for us to realize our full potential.
The next few years will be critical during our transition to an 18-member board. Having served on the task team that developed the governance implementation plan, I will bring that experience and knowledge to bear as a vice president. As a former leader of my city council, and several other non-profit organizations, I bring the ability to work in collaborative groups to create positive change toward a shared strategic vision. I will leverage that ability with my knowledge of CSI’s technical programs and products to move our organization and the industry forward.
I look forward to working with you to build CSI into the outstanding organization that we all know it can be, should be, and must be. I respectfully ask for your vote for Institute vice president. See you soon.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
The Power of Networking
Like many CSI members, I talk about the organization with anyone who will listen. A number of these conversations have been with government officials. A few years ago, I successfully lobbied the State Architect’s Office to adopt MasterFormat 2004. I also worked with the executive director of the Ohio Architects Board to include the Construction Specifications Institute among the organizations approved to accredit continuing education programs. The following is from a CSI press release dated October 10, 2008.
“The Ohio State Architects Board now recognizes the Construction Specifications Institute's (CSI) Construction Education Network (CEN) as an approved entity for construction professionals pursuing continuing education credits. CSI CEN is a network of registered education providers offering programs to professionals in construction-related industries. It is the only continuing education program that connects the entire built community – from architects, engineers and contractors to manufacturers, facility managers and developers. No other program is as comprehensive in its scope."
The executive director of the Board was also the executive director of the Columbus Chapter of AIA for six years prior to taking her current position. During that time CSI Columbus and AIA Columbus worked very well together and we developed a very good working relationship. Since I was on both boards, I served in a quasi-liaison role between the two organizations. We held joint events and even shared mailing lists. In February 2005, CSI Columbus sponsored AIA Columbus’ newsletter in the Daily Reporter, a daily business newspaper, and I wrote four sponsorship articles to highlight current topics of interest about CSI.
I had just been elected to the executive committee, when she announced she was leaving. Before the Board adopted rules to implement legislation mandating continuing education for architects in late 2005, she called me to discuss the issue. When CSI developed and released the CEN program, the rule was in place to provide instantaneous recognition.
The value of forming relationships like this is a priceless commodity. You never know what can happen if you connect with the right person. See you soon.
“The Ohio State Architects Board now recognizes the Construction Specifications Institute's (CSI) Construction Education Network (CEN) as an approved entity for construction professionals pursuing continuing education credits. CSI CEN is a network of registered education providers offering programs to professionals in construction-related industries. It is the only continuing education program that connects the entire built community – from architects, engineers and contractors to manufacturers, facility managers and developers. No other program is as comprehensive in its scope."
The executive director of the Board was also the executive director of the Columbus Chapter of AIA for six years prior to taking her current position. During that time CSI Columbus and AIA Columbus worked very well together and we developed a very good working relationship. Since I was on both boards, I served in a quasi-liaison role between the two organizations. We held joint events and even shared mailing lists. In February 2005, CSI Columbus sponsored AIA Columbus’ newsletter in the Daily Reporter, a daily business newspaper, and I wrote four sponsorship articles to highlight current topics of interest about CSI.
I had just been elected to the executive committee, when she announced she was leaving. Before the Board adopted rules to implement legislation mandating continuing education for architects in late 2005, she called me to discuss the issue. When CSI developed and released the CEN program, the rule was in place to provide instantaneous recognition.
The value of forming relationships like this is a priceless commodity. You never know what can happen if you connect with the right person. See you soon.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Thoughts on Membership
It never fails that sometime during a membership conference, someone will get behind the podium and say, "If each one of us would just recruit one new member, we could double our size." Now, it's not that I disagree with that idea. The problem is they're preaching to the choir. The attendees are usually the most motivated folks who actually do recruitment. What we aren't reaching is the disengaged member who may not be around long himself.
I tend to think in terms of fixing the holes in the boat. Not only fixing the holes, but bolstering the structural problems, and giving it more than a fresh coat of paint. People will go to an organization that is sexy or trendy or hot. Look at the success of USGBC. But there are also problems with that kind of rapid growth. We need to keep providing better customer service.
Why can't we do both? Change to be the organization people want to belong to, and let them know about us at the same time. In my last post, I talked about networking and selling the value of maintaining professional relationships. This is a fundamental key to success.
Another key is to engage new members the moment they walk in the door. Give them a job and some buy-in and they keep coming back for more. And they might bring someone with them.
Programming is also important. Too many chapters let good programs slip away and begin doing the box lunch-type programs that cater to one segment of a diverse organization. Where are the programs for the manufacturer's representatives?
It's getting late and my thoughts are becoming more and more random, so I'd better sign off. See you soon.
I tend to think in terms of fixing the holes in the boat. Not only fixing the holes, but bolstering the structural problems, and giving it more than a fresh coat of paint. People will go to an organization that is sexy or trendy or hot. Look at the success of USGBC. But there are also problems with that kind of rapid growth. We need to keep providing better customer service.
Why can't we do both? Change to be the organization people want to belong to, and let them know about us at the same time. In my last post, I talked about networking and selling the value of maintaining professional relationships. This is a fundamental key to success.
Another key is to engage new members the moment they walk in the door. Give them a job and some buy-in and they keep coming back for more. And they might bring someone with them.
Programming is also important. Too many chapters let good programs slip away and begin doing the box lunch-type programs that cater to one segment of a diverse organization. Where are the programs for the manufacturer's representatives?
It's getting late and my thoughts are becoming more and more random, so I'd better sign off. See you soon.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Happy 2009!
Well, another year has passed. The events of the previous year are certainily weighing heavily as we look forward. I think that perhaps uncertainty is the watchword as we begin again. Organizations are budgeting conservatively and showing hesitancy in creating new initiatives.
Perhaps this is the time to be bold and do things we wouldn't normally think about in the years of fat. For instance, instead of downsizing sponsorship budgets, think about changing the way these opportunities for getting the corporate image in front of people are approached. Perhaps there will be a desire to downsize individual budgets, but the number of potential sponsors may increase since they need to make an effort to reach their customer, when they didn't before.
As for memberships, maybe now is the time to make a better case for the value of the networking opportunities that trade organizations provide. Networking with peers, especially in a diverse group like CSI, will pay dividends if the right hand is shaken on any given day.
With a new administration coming to power in difficult times, there will be an effort to bolster the economy. This time it looks like a check may not be in the mail, but a more sizeable investment in our aging infrastructure. Where better than CSI to meet the partner for your next public project. See you soon.
Perhaps this is the time to be bold and do things we wouldn't normally think about in the years of fat. For instance, instead of downsizing sponsorship budgets, think about changing the way these opportunities for getting the corporate image in front of people are approached. Perhaps there will be a desire to downsize individual budgets, but the number of potential sponsors may increase since they need to make an effort to reach their customer, when they didn't before.
As for memberships, maybe now is the time to make a better case for the value of the networking opportunities that trade organizations provide. Networking with peers, especially in a diverse group like CSI, will pay dividends if the right hand is shaken on any given day.
With a new administration coming to power in difficult times, there will be an effort to bolster the economy. This time it looks like a check may not be in the mail, but a more sizeable investment in our aging infrastructure. Where better than CSI to meet the partner for your next public project. See you soon.
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