Building Toward A Brighter 2011
By Shawn Zuver, editorial/content director
The holidays are over, the resolutions have been made (and some have likely already been broken), and here we are at the start of 2011.
The new year traditionally is a time of reflection and anticipation, so a logical starting point would be to note that economic stability continues to be a significant concern for many people throughout the world. This is evidenced by members of the European Union who are struggling to deal with high debt levels, and here in the United States where raging budget deficits are catching the attention of taxpayers and many legislators.
In our industry, the high level of unemployment in the U.S. has been especially hard on the construction and design fields. Most economists agree that a significant turnaround could be a couple years or more away, and that the thriving construction atmosphere of the mid-2000s may not be seen again for at least another three to five years.
Despite all that, there are many reasons to have a positive attitude.
While some companies - including product suppliers, contractors and design firms - didn’t survive the recent construction recession, the ones who did are generally much stronger and many are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.
On the manufacturing side, un-needed capacity has been shorn, systems have been improved, and we’re seeing an overall sense of relief that the worst is now in the past. Likewise, contractors and designers have strengthened their organizations – many through painful layoffs and cutbacks, and others by absorbing former competitors. Admittedly, these aren’t exactly scenarios that any of us would have wished for, but it’s admirable to see firms take charge of challenging situations.
One a much more positive note, throughout 2010 there were many new products, and product improvements, introduced. With the continued focus on all things “green”, it wasn’t surprising to see that a lot of innovation went into the design of eco-friendly metal products – including solar roofing and wall systems, and cool coating technology. And we’re aware of many more new product offerings that will be introduced throughout 2011.
All things considered, 2010 wasn’t necessarily a banner year for most companies involved in construction and design, but it was an important step toward a stronger future. For those who have made the tough decisions and worked diligently through this construction recession, the good times ahead are going to seem a whole lot sweeter. And for those who are still struggling, 2011 will hopefully be the start of better times.
Best wishes to everyone in the new year!
Shawn Zuver is editorial/content director for DesignandBuildwithMetal.com. He has been covering the metal construction industry, including residential and non-residential construction, since 1985. To contact Shawn, call (419) 581-2051 or email shawnz@designandbuildwithmetal.com.
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