APRIL- 2021CONSTRUCTIONTECHREVIEW.COM8Working with companies who are getting ready to try something new is one of my favorite parts of being a consulting engineer. The enthusiasm that goes hand-in-hand with an idea is energizing and infectious. As someone who's "been there, done that" now with a number of clients, I also know how much hard work and preparation it takes to launch anything new and innovative: the realities of the process can take a toll on your energy and your willingness to see something through.Balancing excitement and positivity with a practical approach is important. By following a few best practices, your excitement can fuel your project long-term instead of flaring up initially and burning you out in the long run.Find a trusted resource. You have a great idea that might deliver an amazing return. You've also never done anything like this before. Set yourself up for success by finding a consultant or an industry insider who can guide you through the process and help you identify your blind spots. Find someone you trust, put the necessary protections in place to guard your intellectual property, and begin the planning process in a collaborative, growth-and-learning-focused manner. Ask the right questions. Depending on your experience in the area, you may not know what kinds of questions to ask about your new product or production environment. Try to think through every aspect of a potential plant or new line:· How are you going to handle capital procurement?· Where's your up-front capital spend coming from?· Have you thought about capital interest?· How are you paying for construction costs?· What operational costs will you need to consider?· Do your current employees have the required skills?· What are your insurance needs?· What OSHA levels and considerations will apply?HARNESS YOUR INNOVATION ENERGYBY KELLY CHARLES, MANAGER, POWER ENGINEERSIN MYOPINIONKelly Charles
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