A new book out called ‘The Elements of Building: A Business Handbook for Residential Builders and Tradesmen’ by Mark Kerson is a valuable read. If you are thinking of starting up a homebuilding or trade business, have a relatively new business, want to develop your staff or just have a resource book on hand this is a great book to have.
Marks book and many of his quotes strike a strong chord with the focus of this blog on Quality. For example he points out that “Quality, like honest is not optional. Nearly everyone knows the difference between a mediocre and a quality product; the best employees want to produce it and the best customers will pay for it. Selling quality instead of price will bring more interesting and more profitable jobs. Make it a cornerstone of your business.” (p7)
Another phrase Mark uses reminds me of the value of the National Housing Quality Award process, “See excellent builders as motivation and inspiration, not competition.” (p39)
The book is what it seems, the wisdom of builder created over a period of 30 years. Tips and notes on working with employees, clients, subs, creating contracts even sample forms.
I will finish with this quote that Mark cites. “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution’ it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.” William A Foster
To find out more go to www.elements-of-building.com
and http://eob-mqk.blogspot.com/
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