Industry News

| National Scholarship Recipient Awarded

Phillip Strawn, California State University, Chico Student Essay: What would be the benefits of a career in estimating? <a href="http://www.aspenational.org/ScholarshipRecipient.aspx">Read more</a>

Scholarship2010recipient.pdf

| Strong Construction Spending Rebound in April

Construction spending rebounded strongly in April, with an increase of 2.7 percent or $23 billion from March to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $869 billion according to the latest analysis of federal spending figures released by the Associated General Contractors of America. The association noted that the gains were primarily driven by private residential construction (up 4.4 percent) and public construction (up 2.4 percent), but that private nonresidential also increased significantly (up 1.7 percent). "The stimulus is clearly driving one of the biggest increases in construction spending the industry has experienced in a long time," said Ken Simonson, chief economist of the construction trade association. "Once you look beyond the stimulus, however, these figures show how uneven and fragile the construction recovery remains." Simonson noted that the stimulus drove significant increases in a range of public construction categories. For example, compared to March 2010, spending on public drinking water supply facilities jumped 7.9 percent; public sewage treatment, 3.9 percent; and highway construction 3.6 percent. Spending on other public transportation modes was flat for the month but soared 29 percent compared to April 2009. In contrast, public educational construction spending, which received little stimulus support, only edged up 0.4 percent for the month and was 18 percent lower than a year earlier. <a href="http://www.constructionequipmentguide.com/Strong-Construction-Spending-Rebound-in-April/14514/newsletter/" target="_blank">read more</a>

| McCarthy Building Companies Honored With Two Prestigious Awards

McCarthy Building Companies Inc., one of the nation's oldest and largest employee-owned construction companies, was honored recently with two prestigious national awards for superior collaboration and construction excellence. Both awards were presented during the 91st Annual Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) convention in Orlando, Fla. The AT&T Performing Arts Center Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre received an AON Build America Award for Best New Building Project, and the Mission Hospital Patient Care Tower received a Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering Award. "We are proud to be honored with these two prestigious awards," commented McCarthy Chairman and CEO Michael Bolen. "It is wonderful to be included in this year's group of distinguished recipients." AGC/AON Build America Award: AT&T Performing Arts Center Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, Dallas, Texas Designed by REX/OMA, Joshua Prince-Ramus (partner in charge) and Pritzker Prize-winning architect Rem Koolhaas, the Wyly Theatre is the world's first and only high-rise theater and is one of two new venues in the AT&T Performing Arts Center in the heart of downtown Dallas. Constructed by McCarthy, the 12-level, 80,300-sq.-ft. multi-form theater, completely rethinks the traditional arrangement of a theater's parts. This vertically-stacked theater houses unique materials from across the globe and boasts the capability to transform into three different seating configurations - thrust, proscenium and flat floor - made possible by a series of lift platforms that raise and lower. The project required a contractor willing to take on the architects' revolutionary design vision, one that many critics said would be impractical to construct. McCarthy successfully built this theater that not only opened to acclamations nationwide throughout the arts community, but that also will be the source of many conversations in the A/E/C community for years to come because the building process resulted in many "firsts" in construction. The Wyly Theatre officially opened in October 2009. The AGC/AON Build America Awards honor those who build the nation's premiere construction projects and are among the most prestigious awards available in the construction industry. Winners are selected based on innovation, advancements and contributions to the community. Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering Award: Mission Hospital Patient Care Tower, Mission Viejo, Calif. Designed by RBB Architects Inc., the new four-level patient tower at Mission Hospital features a patient-centered design along with next-generation advancements in healthcare technology and seismic building safety. The Mission Hospital Patient Care Tower project team tackled numerous challenges and overcame all of these through a spirited partnering approach coupled with an integrated project delivery method. As a result of this collaborative team effort, the project was built with exceptional quality and was delivered on-time, within budget, and with zero claims. Throughout design and construction, the 94,000-sq.-ft. patient care tower project encountered a host of potential budget and schedule threatening challenges such as unusually complex mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and the very stringent seismic requirements for California healthcare projects. Beyond those, additional complications entailed: multi-level connections to the existing hospital; a tight site adjacent to the existing operational hospital; a highly complex building skin; complicated bridge construction, as well as the design and installation of the latest Imaging equipment technology. The success of this project was optimized through the team's collaborative partnering efforts, including reaching out to all of the stakeholders from the crafts workers to project executives, end-users, and even the local community. The project was completed ahead of schedule and opened in November 2009. The AGC Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering Awards honor successful partnerships and collaborations that work to improve construction projects. Contractors honored with this award stand out for their ability to achieve common goals, resolving conflict and improve communication on the project with all audiences. About McCarthy McCarthy Building Companies Inc. is one of the nation's oldest and largest construction firms. In addition to St. Louis, McCarthy has offices in Atlanta, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Dallas, Newport Beach, San Diego, Sacramento and San Francisco. McCarthy is 100 percent employee owned. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.mccarthy.com" target="_blank">www.mccarthy.com</a>. See other announcements and member company news & press releases - <a href="http://www.aspenational.org/Membership_About_Announcements.aspx">click here</a>

| Developer Delay, Halt Projects as Expectations Worsen

Some developers are delaying or canceling projects as expectations mount that 2010.  The expectation is that 2011 will still be marked by below-normal building operating income. He also notes that the heavy construction market indicators have worsened slightly because of the flow of public financing. <a>Reed/ACP Construction Data </a>

| Analysts warn of foreclosure crisis in commercial real estate

Analysts said a wave of foreclosure on commercial properties likely will hit community banks especially hard. "There's been an enormous bubble in commercial real estate, and it has to come down," said Elizabeth Warren, chairwoman of the Congressional Oversight Panel. "There will be significant bankruptcies among developers and significant failures among community banks." <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/02/18/AR2010021805904.html" target="_blank">The Washington Post</a> (2/19)

| February 2010 | Tradeshow Announcements! Visit ASPE there!

In February, visit ASPE at The World of Concrete (booth N2065) and ABC Construction Showcase (booth #828). <a href="http://www.worldofconcrete.com/ind/woc-homepage.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="../userfiles/image/WOC_350x127.png" alt="" width="191" height="69" /></a> <a href="http://www.abc.org/Hot_Links/Meetings_and_Events/Convention.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="../userfiles/image/ABC_2010_conv_350x94.png" alt="" width="286" height="75" /></a>

| TRG | Building Materials - "Mortal Panic" and the Growing Jobs Bill Debate

TRG Snapshot: Last week we ventured to Washington, D.C. to better understand the current transportation bill debate and a potential "jobs bill". As one contact noted, cand as such, the political will quickly to address jobs is high because so many re-elections hinge upon a solution. Today's note seeks to clarify the political motivations underlying the transportation bill debate and a jobs bill. Decision making in D.C. is always mercurial, and our trip confirmed this verity. Key Points: Infrastructure a key focus in D.C. Leadership is driving the jobs bill, transportation bill extension. Jobs bill and transportation bill extension are two different debates. Funding remains a thorn in the side for both debates. TRG Opinion. Senate leadership is pushing to conclude the healthcare bill floor debate before the end of 2009. We believe the order of importance after healthcare is 1) appropriations (i.e., minibus), 2) jobs bill, 3) FAA reauthorization, and 4) transportation bill extension. We do not think a transportation bill extension will be addressed prior to the CR expiration 12/18/09 and expect another 30-60 day CR that will be attached to the appropriations minibus. There remains a push for a 6-month transportation bill extension, but the jobs bill has pushed the extension debate to late February/early March, in our opinion. Infrastructure will be an important part of a jobs bill, and its passage is targeted for January. As has consistently been the case, D.C. has further complicated the infrastructure debate. That said, there appears to be an additional piece of legislation that supports our building materials coverage, including VMC, MLM, GVA, STRL, EXP, and TXI.

Building_Materials_-_TRG_-_Mortal_Panic_and_the_Growing_Jobs_Bill_Debate_-_120709.pdf

| “TRG | Building Materials – Q4’09 Construction Estimators Survey”

TRG Snapshot: We recently surveyed 30+ project estimators at major construction firms across the U.S.  Within a construction firm, the project estimator is responsible for bid preparation.  As such, we believe estimators are well positioned to comment on project margins, raw materials pricing, and overall bidding trends. Key Points: The following were key themes from our construction estimator survey: 80% of those surveyed reported their end market mix of revenues has shifted toward public construction over the past 12-18 months. Bid activity mixed. Stimulus work gaining importance. Margins remain under pressure. Raw materials pricing mostly modestly improved. Equipment purchases unlikely in the next 6-12 mo.   TRG opinion. Our Q4’09 Construction Estimator survey suggests competitive bidding activity for construction companies remains high. Reflective of our November 2009 state DOT survey (published 11/24/09), construction estimators report stimulus dollars have started to flow. That said, the 2010 outlook for construction companies is somewhat mixed. While several noted stimulus and public construction work will provide some much-needed support, a handful are uncertain about 2010. Larger, more financially sound E&C companies such as GVA and STRL are better positioned in 2010. GVA is trading at 3x cash and STRL at 2x cash. GVA is trading at 4.6x 2010 EV/EBITDA and 3.5x recovery EV/EBITDA (2011) and STRL is an even more modest at 3.7x 2010 EV/EBITDA and 3.2x 2011 EV/EBITDA. It is our sense that we are at or near the bottom for E&C companies, and as the weaker players struggle to survive during the winter seasonal slowdown, the more financially sound players will emerge as the real winners by late spring and summer. We remain focused on VMC, GVA, STRL, and ASTE, as we believe these have more upside potential due to their end market and geographic exposure.

Building_Materials_-_TRG_-_Q4'09_Construction_Estimtators_Survey_-_113009.pdf

| Senate nears 6 month extension of the highway bill

Yesterday the Senate attempted to “hotline” a 6-month extension of the transportation bill at gross levels (i.e., fixing the rescission). In order for the “hotline” bill to be successful, 100 Senators must agree on its contents. Key to the success of the Senate “hotline” transportation extension is House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Jim Oberstar’s stamp of approval for a 6-month extension because it would be an indication that the House is on board with the Senate’s version of the bill. As a reminder, Oberstar has been dogmatic in his insistence on a 3-month extension in order to keep the transportation reauthorization debate fresh. Speaking to our D.C. sources last night, a successful hotlining of the Senate’s version of the bill is a strong indication that the Senate and House may have made a commitment to pass a new 6-year bill by March 31, 2010. This date is key as it is estimated that the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) would run out of money again by then under the current funding formulas. You will recall in our upgrade report for VMC, GVA and STRL (published 9/01/09), we outlined several reasons why public construction spending would be greater than expectations in 2010 and why public construction would more than offset the decline in non-residential construction spending. At that point, we did not anticipate a new highway bill until after the 2010 mid-term elections. If a new six-year highway bill is brought up for debate as early as Spring of 2010, this would only further bolster our 2010 public construction spending thesis. The last highway bill (SAFETEA-LU) was passed in the August 2005. Note that our building material names appreciated meaningfully leading into the new highway bill and strength sustained for 18-24 months thereafter (at least until the residential housing market topped out). A new six-year highway bill will be bullish for our entire building materials and construction equipment group. We think some companies offer more upside than others, and we have listed potential returns below based on our mid-cycle recovery EBITDA estimates and 10-year average multiples. The key is to be invested in one or more of these names or we have not fully done our work. comments provided by TRG | Thompson Research Group

| Ecobuild Conference and Alliance Meetings:

December 6-11, 2009 (Washington, DC) www.aeceobuild.com BIM Forum: January 14 – 15, 2010 (Phoenix, AZ) www.bimforum.org Sage/TUG Summit Customer Conference: November 9-12, 2009 (Atlanta, GA) www.sagecre.com/company/events/conferences_trade_shows

| Phoenix to Host AISC’s 2009 North American Steel Construction Conference

(Chicago, IL) – Phoenix will play host to more than 3,000 steel construction professionals this April during the 2009 North American Steel Construction Conference, presented by the American, Canadian, and Mexican Institutes of Steel Construction. NASCC: The Steel Conference will be held April 1-4, 2009 and feature presentations from top industry leaders, more than 80 technical sessions, short course educational programming, and extensive trade show exhibits featuring products and services ranging from engineering software to the latest fabrication equipment.

NASCC_'09_press_release.pdf

| The Blue Book of Building and Construction Announces Spring 2009 “GC Showcase” Schedule

The Blue Book has officially published the dates and locations for their Spring 2009 GC Showcase program. These free networking events provide a unique forum for general contractors nationwide to exhibit their companies and pre-qualify subcontractors and suppliers for their current and upcoming projects. The local companies who attend have the opportunity to meet with buyers and decision-makers responsible for hiring subcontractors and buying supplies for construction projects in their area. There is no cost to exhibit or attend and an exhibit space is provided for participating GCs.

ShowcaseSpring_09.pdf

| DProfiler Student Competition

Beck Technology is conducting a DProfiler student competition in which the best two student created cost models for the Spring 2009 semester will be awarded. “Cost models” are building information models (BIMs) with costs applied directly inside the modeling environment created for the purposes of conceptual budgeting. Submitted cost models will be judged by Beck Technology management and the winners will be revealed at the DProfiler user event in May (attendance not required).

NASCC_'09_press_release.pdf

| PLANSWIFT TAKES PRINCIPLE SPONSORSHIP OF 2009 ASPE CONVENTION

Planswift, a subsidiary of Tech Unlimited, Inc., Henderson, Nevada is a leading provider of takeoff and estimating software to industry professionals agrees to take on the Principle Sponsorship of the ASPE 2009 Convention. ASPE has accepted a contract from The Planswift Company for the largest sponsorship available with the convention. “The Principle sponsorship was created for companies who want stronger ties with ASPE and to help pay the upfront bills and deposits need to put on a big event like the convention.” said an ASPE representative. “It is a big commitment and we are extremely appreciative for Planswift to step up like this”. Among its many accomplishments the company has developed software to enhance the construction industry’s daily takeoff and estimating needs. More than 4,000 industry professionals, in over ten countries, use Planswift to help them complete more precise and accurate bids every day. For more information about Planswift, please visit the company's website at www.planswift.com

| The Up Side of A Slow Economy & How It Can Improve Your Estimating Department

First question most of you will likely ask is “what upside is there to a slow economy”? I’ll admit there can be a challenge to finding it. The truth is most construction companies have been running so flat out for the last four to five years they have not had time for much housekeeping, and often lack of good housekeeping can cause long term problems.

The_Up_Side_of_A_Slow_Economy.pdf

| Construction Management Software Achieves Microsoft Gold Certified Partner Status

Reaching highest level of partner status allows CMS to leverage latest Microsoft technologies as it continually enhances its construction estimating software solutions. SAN DIEGO, Calif., January 5, 2009: Construction Management Software (CMS), a leading provider of construction estimating and takeoff technology solutions, today announced that it has achieved Microsoft Gold Certified Partner status. Gold Certified Partners demonstrate the highest level of competence and expertise with Microsoft technologies. As a result, this elite set of partners, including CMS, gain a closer working relationship with Microsoft while having access to resources that give them a competitive edge. With its previous recognition as a Microsoft Certified Partner, CMS demonstrated ISV/Software Solutions Competency for its ProEst Takeoff solution. At that time, independent third party testing was done to ensure that ProEst Takeoff was compatible with Microsoft operating systems. CMS’ elevation to Gold Certified Partner status reinforces the company’s commitment to developing leading edge construction software that complements its clients’ other business tools, such as Microsoft Excel and Outlook. “Taking the additional steps to become a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner gives us access to the latest development tools and technologies,” said Jeffrey Gerardi, president of CMS. “Having this top-level access to key Microsoft resources will help us continue providing our clients with state-of-the-art, industry specific software solutions.” CMS’ commitment to enhancing its products with new technology is demonstrated in the just-released ProEst Takeoff 2009. This new software release includes digital takeoff technology for performing take-offs on screen using electronic plans and a mouse, which saves time and storage space, and reduces the costs associated with printing paper plans. * * * About Construction management Software (CMS) CMS is the developer of ProEst estimating software and ProEst Takeoff software, simple, powerful and innovative estimating solutions for construction. An industry leader since 1976, CMS’ software is used by more than 6,500 construction firms nationwide. Headquartered in San Diego, CA, CMS is committed to streamlining and improving the estimating process by continuously enhancing its products to deliver the latest advances in technology. Digital takeoff technology, a Microsoft Office 2003 look and feel and seamless integration with popular software programs are just some examples. For more information about ProEst estimating and ProEst Takeoff software, contact Jeffrey Gerardi, President; 800-255-7407; jeffg@proest.com ;

| PLANSWIFT STREAMLINES ESTIMATING WITH POINT-OF-SALE INTEGRATION

Software Allows Direct Exportation of Construction Takeoff Material Lists. Evergreen, CO., December 23, 2008 — Tech Unlimited, Inc., the company that developed PlanSwift, the easy-to-use construction takeoff and estimating software program, announced their newest software capability today which allows integration into point-of-sales (POS) systems. For building material suppliers throughout the nation, the ability for PlanSwift software to communicate with POS systems provides an array of time-saving functionalities. Suppliers are able to work with digital prints, apply materials, and then export that material list directly into their own POS system. “It was important for us to place a great deal of importance on POS integration as soon as possible for the simple fact that it streamlines the takeoff process even further,” says Matt Miller, Director of National Sales, “and exporting the takeoff quantities, with materials applied saves time and reduces mistakes.” PlanSwift has worked over the past year to reduce the number of steps needed to complete material takeoffs. While companies are looking to save money and increase efficiency, PlanSwift offers solutions by bridging the gap between the material takeoffs and shipping process through POS integration. “Each time someone keypunches data into their POS system, the capacity for mistakes exist. If we can eliminate one more step, the potential for mistakes is greatly reduced,” says Miller. When companies decide to work with digital prints, the next logical step is to be able to price quantities automatically without keypunching. “Speed, efficiency, and accuracy are all starting to come together,” says Miller. As industry leaders make PlanSwift their choice, more and more companies are experiencing time and cost savings. PlanSwift offers customers the opportunity to see how the software can revolutionize their business. Industry professionals can receive a free 14-day, fully functional trial of PlanSwift. PlanSwift also provides customers with a free one-hour demonstration with an experienced estimator, which enables customers to maximize their free trial offer. The software can be downloaded at http://www.planswift.com. . About PlanSwift PlanSwift, a subsidiary of Tech Unlimited, Inc., is a leading provider of takeoff and estimating software to industry professionals. The PlanSwift Company has developed software to enhance the construction industry’s daily takeoff and estimating needs. More than 4,000 industry professionals, in over ten countries, use PlanSwift to help them complete more precise and accurate bids every day. If you would like more information about the program or company, or to schedule an interview with Matthew Miller, please call (888) 752-6794 ext. 729 or email marketing@planswift.com.

| eBid eXchange and Sage Timberline Estimating – A Powerful Pre-Construction Connection

Seattle, WA – December 17, 2008 – Having been accepted into the Sage Timberline Estimating Development partner program in 2008, eBid Systems has announced an early 2009 release for its eBid eXchange – Sage Timberline Estimating connector (XT Connector). The XT Connector will provide a seamless integration between its eBid eXchange bid management system and the industry-leading Sage Timberline Estimating program. Already providing significant value to its commercial construction and homebuilding customers as a standalone application, integration with Sage Timberline Estimating is expected to provide an even more compelling reason for companies to adopt the eBid eXchange bid management application. “Listening to our construction industry customers and continuing to improve our products and services has always been what we are about,” said Keith Jones, President of eBid Systems. “Many of our customers who were already using Sage Timberline Estimating software told us that they were looking for ways to improve their bid management processes and leverage their existing technology investments. We acted on this advice and prioritized the development of our XT Connector in order to provide current and future customers with a seamless bid management – estimating tool set.” The initial release of the XT Connector will provide automated, bi-directional synchronization of the Timberline Address Book with the online vendor database in eBid eXchange. Using an automated web service, contact information entered and updated in either system will be automatically synchronized between the applications on a regular basis. For new customers of eBid eXchange, this will allow them to immediately populate the eBid eXchange vendor database with records from their Timberline Address Book. Use of the XT Connector will eliminate the need to re-enter subcontractor records in multiple systems. Work on additional integrations with Sage Timberline Estimating will begin in early 2009. The next phase of improvements to the XT Connector will focus on the ability to upload a project estimate into eBid eXchange, receive online bids from vendors in eBid eXchange, and import the bid and award data into Sage Timberline Estimating. About eBid Systems – eBid Systems provides pre-construction applications that allow commercial contractors and homebuilders to prequalify subcontractors, streamline bid invitation, distribute bid documents, and manage subcontractor responses in a private and secure environment. With its eBid eXchange platform, eBid Systems delivers Software-as-a-Service that provides the benefits of enterprise software at an affordable price. For more information about products and services provided by eBid Systems call 888-291-8430.

| NEW INFORMATION: SALARY REPORTING SOURCES FOR PROFESSIONAL CONSTRUCTION ESTIMATORS

ASPE has found a few new sources of information for construction estimating professionals who want to get an idea of pay levels around the United States. Until it is posted you can send an email to: CAREERS@ASPEnational.org. Please indicate if you are an ASPE member or not. If the idea of working for one of the country's premier construction companies who use the ASPE career center appeals to you, then take advantage of this offer. As a benefit to the industry, all construction estimating professionals can post their resumes with NO CHARGE at the ASPE job service. Every week the staff at ASPE sends inquiring employers to the ASPE career center, where they can find prospective estimating professional’s resumes.

| ON CENTER SOFTWARE CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY

THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS (June 12, 2008) – In October 1988, young entrepreneur Leonard Buzz co-founded On Center Software with the launch of the Quick Bid estimating application, developed on the floor of his suburban Houston apartment. Now, 20 years later, with Buzz at the helm as president and CEO, On Center Software is proud to celebrate its stature as the leading provider of software solutions for the construction industry. “Over the past two decades, thousands of individuals have relied upon our products to help them create bids and manage projects more efficiently and effectively,” Buzz says. “We will continue to focus on innovating and supporting state-of-the-art software solutions for the construction industry, with the needs of our customers driving the development process.” In addition to Quick Bid, the On Center ProfitBuilding™ Suite of products includes On-Screen Takeoff® and Digital Production Control™. For more information, visit www.oncenter.com. About On Center Software, Inc. Located in The Woodlands, Texas, On Center Software, Inc. (OCS) is a privately held company founded by construction industry professionals. Their mission is to transform the estimating experience of other construction industry professionals by developing and supporting innovative, practical, comprehensive software solutions that turn winning bids into profitable projects. On Center Software combines extensive industry knowledge, a solid understanding of the estimating process and state-of-the-art technology to turn ordinary bidding data into meaningful information.

| SmartBidNet Release 9.0 is Announced by JBKnowledge Technologies

(College Station, Texas) – SmartBidNet 9.0 is released today by JBKnowledge Technologies. SmartBidNet is a construction bid invitation and bid management software for general contractors that uses the internet to provide secure access and online collaboration to subcontractors and suppliers for seamless coordination in construction project bidding. New features in SmartBidNet version 9.0 + A feature called "Quick Add" allows users to invite an individual company to a bid project that did not qualify by contact group/region/trade. + The General Contractor can now upload a proposal received by a subcontractor. + The Communication Template Editor now includes a full function editor. The streamlined editor allows for quick edits to a template before the communication goes out to the sub contractors. + The Shared Managers List has been modified to only show managers who have been given access to the job. The "Add/Edit" feature allows the user to add more shared managers. + The File Downloading Function now allows the zip and download feature to stream in the background and will notify the user when it is ready. This allows the user to perform other tasks while waiting on the system to zip and download. + Added the option for "Invited (not rejected)" to make it easier to select all subcontractors who have been invited but not rejected. + This version allows for print orders from any plan rooms that are made public. This will allow non-invited users who are given the public link to place orders for prints. + New feature to mark a Subcontractor as "Invited" without having to send them an invitation. When the Subcontractor logs in, they will automatically see that the job is available to them for bidding. More Information SmartBidNet is a construction bid invitation and bid management software for general contractors that uses the internet to provide secure access and online collaboration to subcontractors and suppliers for seamless coordination in construction project bidding. Its user-friendly interface and straightforward design add value and simplicity to construction bidding to save time and money by making it easier to create bid projects, invite subcontractors to bid, and manage their responses. SmartBidNet is a product of JBKnowledge Technologies Inc., a Texas-based company with additional offices in New Mexico and Argentina. JBKnowledge is a consulting and development firm specializing in creative services outsourcing and IT consulting. Service specialties include Web development, software development, graphic design, and 3D animation. More information about JBK is at http://www.jbknowledge.com

| Construction Management Software Releases Enhanced Version of its ProEst Estimating Software ®

ProEst 11 incorporates a Microsoft Office look and feel and new technology to increase productivity and create more accurate bids

pr-cms.pdf

| Sage White Paper - Making BIM Work for Builders

By now, if you’re in the construction business you’ve probably heard about Building Information Modeling (BIM). What you may not have done, however, is thought much about how this emerging and evolving technology can—and will—affect your business. In this paper, we’ll discuss how BIM technology will impact the construction industry, and, just as important, how it can be used as part of a process to make your company more productive and profitable.

Sage_White_Paper_-_Making_BIM_Work_for_Builders.pdf

| CSI Introduces BIM AudioCast Series : Audio briefs to address basics of Building Information Modeling

CSI launched an AudioCast series focusing on Building Information Modeling (BIM) Monday. CSI is producing the bimWits series in conjunction with the buildingSMART alliance™. The audio briefs will draw on the knowledge and “wits” of experts working with BIM. “BIM is an evolving technology that often is vaguely defined and little understood throughout the industry,” CSI Executive Director/CEO Walter T. Marlowe P.E., CSI, CAE, said. “CSI’s new AudioCast series will feature national and international experts who will clearly explain to average practitioners how BIM affects the way they do their jobs.” The free series, available to the public, will be posted to http://audio.csinet.org on the first and third Mondays of every month. Each episode will address BIM best practices and will generally run between three and eight minutes. The debut episode features an interview with Deke Smith, Executive Director of the buildingSMART Alliance. Click here to listen to this episode. The bimWITS AudioCasts will be available online at http://audio.csinet.org, the buildingSMART alliance Web site (www.buildingsmartalliance.org) and iTunes. You don’t need an iPod to hear CSI’s AudioCast – you can listen online through your computer. You can also add the CSI AudioCast to your Web site – look for directions at http://audio.csinet.org. CSI began offering its AudioCasts in early 2007. The online audio programs feature news, educational topics, interviews and best practices for the design and construction industries. Nearly 120,000 CSI AudioCast episodes have been downloaded.

| McGraw-Hill releases SMART MARKET REPORT "Interoperability in the Construction Industry"

This SMART MARKET REPORT is the result of a project McGraw-Hill conducted in partnership with 9 industry associations. The report provides insight into the interoperability of software applications and platforms serving the building community. Interoperability is an issue that is of key importance to the $1 trillion U.S. construction market, as interoperability costs add 3.1% to a typical project budget. The manual re-entry of data among incompatible software is the key contributor to these high costs. McGraw -Hill research also found that the largest obstacle to enhanced interoperability is software incompatibility, followed by the costs of training and time spent on translation between incompatible software programs. For a free copy made available to the American Society of Professional Estimator members and website guests please visit: "Interoperability in the Construction Industry"

| New buildingSMART Alliance Unifies Support For Technology

WASHINGTON, DC — Created to spearhead technical, political, and financial support for advanced digital technology in the real property industry—from concept, design and construction through operations and management—the new buildingSMART Alliance will operate within the independent nonprofit National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS). The new public/private initiative expands on goals of the North American Chapter of the International Alliance for Interoperability (IAI-NA), whose Industry Foundation Classes (IFCs) have initiated open standards for national and international links among industry players, and will serve developers and users of Building Information Models (BIMs), the digital tools that are increasingly helping to share highly accurate information throughout a facility’s life cycle.

| BLUEBEAM ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF BLUEBEAM PDF REVU 6.0 WITH INTEGRATED ONLINE SEARCH, DIGITAL SIGNATURES AND ADVANCED EDITING

PASADENA, CA (February 19, 2008) - Bluebeam® Software Inc., a leader in innovative PDF solutions, announced today the release of Bluebeam PDF Revu® 6.0, a major upgrade to the desktop application that simplifies PDF creation, viewing, markup and editing, with a redesigned interface, enhanced markup and editing tools and exclusive new online search technology. Bluebeam continues to revolutionize the PDF world with WebTab™, an integrated web browser that gives direct access to the Internet within Revu. According to Richard Lee, President and CEO of Bluebeam Software, Inc.,"Bluebeam is taking PDF technology beyond simple file conversion, giving users a professional desktop application to incorporate PDF into their entire workflow." Bluebeam customers can search online for PDF brochures, online PDF catalogs and other documents and view them in Revu, then utilize that content with markup and editing capabilities. Web pages and PDF documents are viewed in tabs side by side to combine PDF document viewing and online search in one application. Bluebeam PDF Revu 6.0 also adds digital signatures to its professional PDF editor, giving more support for paperless offices. With digital signatures, users can designate digital signature fields, create signature styles, sign PDF documents and validate signatures in PDF documents. Bluebeam improves PDF markup and editing with the addition of PDF file attachments, a typewriter for adding text markups and filling out PDF forms, and drag and drop bookmark functionality. For customers in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC), Bluebeam has revamped its measurement tool making electronic takeoffs in PDF faster than ever before. New measurement options include calculating volume measurements, counting items on a PDF, embedding the scale in a PDF, setting multiple scales on a single PDF drawing, and snapping measurement lines to content in the PDF for the most accurate measurement. Bluebeam Software sells its desktop PDF solutions direct to customers and through a network of over 300 authorized resellers worldwide. Visit www.bluebeam.com or contact Bluebeam Sales at 866-496-2140 or sales@bluebeam.com for more information. About Bluebeam Software, Inc. Bluebeam Software invents, develops, and commercializes PDF software intelligently designed to meet the needs of design, engineering, construction, legal and business professionals. Bluebeam produces high quality, easy to use products that allow users to improve communication and collaboration immediately with virtually no learning curve. For more information about the company, latest news, and purchasing information, visit Bluebeam Software at www.bluebeam.com.

| ASPE Sponsor SmartBidNet develops time saving bid management software….

ASPE Sponsor SmartBidNet develops time saving bid management software…. (College Station, Texas) -- SmartBidNet, a construction industry bid management software, is finding its place in construction offices across the U.S. and Canada. Older software packages put out by the large software firms are slow and cumbersome, according to SmartBidNet users. Most importantly, they don’t have SmartBidNet’s simple-to-use, instant uploading, and real-time reporting features. Time Savings Realized – Every Day One construction estimator who switched to SmartBidNet earlier this year is Mark Fly, an outsource estimator whose client list includes Davaco, Truwall Interior Systems, Inc. and Citadel Construction Corporation. “I’ve used many different software packages with all the clients we’ve had and did not like any of them,” said Fly. “SmartBidNet has every feature I want – speed, accuracy, and instant reporting. Being able to upload a document in real time is great, especially for the inevitable addendums. The upload wait with other software is typically 24 to 48 hours.” Fly adds, “A major client recently gave me a dozen projects spanning several southeastern states. They were using another brand of software, so it took me one to 1.5 hours to upload and send out a request for bid for each individual project. In comparison, when we use SmartBidNet, the time is about 30 minutes per project. I can pass those cost savings on to my clients, which makes everyone happy.” With over 12,000 contacts in his database, Fly is always looking for a faster, easier method. He especially doesn’t like having to walk subcontractors through more complex software packages. “With SmartBidNet, I get some questions from subcontractors, but not many at all. It’s so easy; it’s ‘left to right’ simple.” Rising Number of Construction Offices Embracing Technology Carolina Cunningham, a construction estimator with Scott&Reid General Contractors in Dallas, Texas, said, "Automating our invitation to bid process has been great. We've seen a huge time savings -- it used to take a day to get jobs out to subcontractors but now it's only 30 minutes to an hour with SmartBidNet." Cunningham added, “Our subcontractors like it but the best part is the time it saves us. I have more time for follow-up calls.” Cunningham evaluated several bidding software packages before deciding on SmartBidNet. One of the selling points was that SmartBidNet came to their offices to train her and fellow construction engineers. “In-person training was not being offered by the other packages,” explained Cunningham. “And now that we’re using it, the customer service is awesome. JBKnowledge is always there if we have a question or problem to solve.” "Construction companies are under an intense amount of pressure during their estimation processes,” said James Benham, president of JBKnowledge. “The pressure to get everything right and get the bid produced on time is immense. By moving to an entirely online, digital delivery process, general contractors and subcontractors can save enormous amounts of time previously spent manually processing paperwork and printing and mailing out invitations and plans. The time and cost savings are amazing, and the construction industry is starting to realize this by switching to products like SmartBidNet." According to Edward&nbs p;Wals h, Executive Director of American Society of Professional Estimators, “Three or four years ago, the way people were discussing going online to get their plans, it sounded like a pipedream that someday everyone would be using an online bidding process. People I talked to thought it would take 10 years for the industry to get on board. What has happened though is the general contractors and construction managers want to deliver their plans this way. Now almost everyone I talk with is already getting at least some of their plans online.” More Information SmartBidNet is a construction bid invitation and bid management software for general contractors that uses the internet to provide secure access and online collaboration to subcontractors and suppliers for seamless coordination in construction project bidding. Its user-friendly interface and straightforward design add value and simplicity to construction bidding to save time and money by making it easier to create bid projects, invite subcontractors to bid, and manage their responses. More information about SmartBidNet is at http://www.smartbidnet.com

| McGraw-Hill releases SMART MARKET REPORT "Interoperability in the Construction Industry"

This SMART MARKET REPORT is the result of a project McGraw-Hill conducted in partnership with 9 industry associations. The report provides insight into the interoperability of software applications and platforms serving the building community. Interoperability is an issue that is of key importance to the $1 trillion U.S. construction market, as interoperability costs add 3.1% to a typical project budget. The manual re-entry of data among incompatible software is the key contributor to these high costs. McGraw -Hill research also found that the largest obstacle to enhanced interoperability is software incompatibility, followed by the costs of training and time spent on translation between incompatible software programs. For a free copy made available to the American Society of Professional Estimator members and website guests please visit: "Interoperability in the Construction Industry"


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