Category: Business

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Business

6 Ways to Reduce Warehouse Costs

Reducing warehouse costs can lead to increased efficiency and higher profit margins. Here are six ways to reduce these costs with the use of clear span temporary structures.

Any business that requires the use of a warehouse is going to incur costs as a result of that warehouse. Without having a place to store supplies or inventory – or run your operation – you likely wouldn’t have a business. But that doesn’t mean you should have to spend a huge chunk of your annual spending on maintaining the warehouse space.

There are ways you can reduce warehouse costs – and we’ve got six of them.

1. Storage Solutions

If you use your warehouse space for storage, are you doing so effectively? Ask yourself whether or not you are using the area within the facility in a very effective manner or if there are changes that could be made to reduce the size of the space. Leasing land or buildings can increase your spending. The bigger the property, the greater the cost. So, if you can optimize your storage you would be able to reduce the amount of space you would need. After all, smaller spaces hold more product if designed right. And, as a result of these changes,  you can reduce your spending.

Not every warehouse is ideal for storage. To get the most out of your space, you need a wide-open, unobstructed area that allows you the ability to create the layout as it fits your needs. If you can do that, then you can use a smaller warehouse space and save money.

Temporary warehouse tents are a great option as they allow you to design them to meet your needs – in both size and layout. You can invest in one of these tents to give you a wide open space with no support poles so that you can make the warehouse run as smoothly and as efficiently as possible. And because the dimensions can be customized, you can make sure it will hold your stored items in the best way possible. All the while reducing your costs.

2. Procurement Strategies

Developing a procurement strategy for your business will also result in less costs. The earlier you develop this strategy for your business, the easier it is to create a cost-effective streamlined process within your supply chain.

Take a look at your spending – in all areas from stakeholders to suppliers. Look over contracts and purchase habits, as well as any hidden costs in certain areas. Determine how much you want to save and how you intend to implement this savings. Then, set clear objectives to get there. Doing this will save you money with your suppliers and vendors without making significant sacrifices.

3. Protect Your Inventory

You need to protect your inventory at all times. Everything that you store in your warehouse is what earns you money. It is what makes your business run. Losing that inventory can cause some major problems.

By investing in the proper storage for your goods and supplies you can reduce the chance of any damage affecting your assets. Weather-related incidents, poor organization, theft and vandalism, and so forth can wreak havoc on your inventory. By securing it in a well-designed structure (such as a temporary tent) with adequate space and security – and minimal access points.

4. Reduce Your Energy Costs

Energy costs in a warehouse can eat up a lot of money. There are so many machines and equipment, lights, and so forth that go into operating a warehouse. Finding even one way you can make a difference in reducing your energy use can lead to a great reduction in costs.

Choosing a temporary tent warehouse can help you to become more energy efficient, thus reducing warehouse costs. The fabric roof allows you to utilize the sunlight rather than electric lights during the day. What’s more is that it is designed to keep the heat out during the summer and the heat in during the winter. The savings will be incredible.

5. Invest in Technology

If you run a warehouse, then somewhere along the line you have likely heard of warehouse management software. And, hopefully you utilize these systems as they are designed to help you keep track of every piece of inventory, every step of the way. You can easily maintain an organized warehouse that is designed in a way that makes everything flow smoothly.

Investing in technology means finding easier and more efficient ways to do things so that you can run your warehouse in a streamlined manner. When operations are choppy or you make a decision about one area without being able to see what is going on in another area, you can do more harm than good to your business.

Sometimes it takes an investment in technology to take a great step toward cutting warehouse costs.

6. Care For Your Employees

If it were not for your employees, your warehouse wouldn’t run. They are literally the power behind your business. So, care for them.

Think about this for a moment. As an employee, wouldn’t you be more likely to keep your productivity up if you had a comfortable amount of space to work and had strong, positive feelings about the company you worked for? Feeling like a company cares about you leads to a strong morale — and increased efficiency.

That means if you want to reduce your warehouse costs, look out for the people who run your warehouse!

Reduce Warehouse Costs with Temporary Tents

We’ve talked a lot about the things that you can do to reduce warehouse costs – and many of them involve using a temporary tent. See, this temporary warehouse space has many benefits, are incredibly versatile, and can be customized to meet your needs.

Temporary tents can…

  • Increase your space, allowing for greater optimization of processes and a more comfortable working environment.
  • Protect your inventory and supplies.
  • Take up less space than traditional brick and mortar spaces.
  • Allow for more organization and better use of space.
  • Reduce your energy costs.

And that’s all just the tip of the iceberg!

If you want to lower your warehouse costs and make the bottom line of your business more healthy, then you need to find the best place to start. And it is quite apparent that a temporary construction tent for warehouse space fits the bill.

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Business

Improving Business Success with Modular Office Space and Buildings

As the world continues to navigate the future of the unknown, flexibility remains essential. Remain flexible and improve business success with the use of modular office space and modular buildings.

Business success can be determined by how much profit you make and how you rank among your competitors. But the truth is, success is based on smaller decisions within the company that can lead to the greatest results. For instance, making the choice to use modular office space and buildings.

See, business success with modular buildings and office space can be measured by your workplace efficiency. And, since your business’s success comes down to just how efficient your processes are, highly efficient, well-organized, streamlined companies tend to have higher productivity levels which leads to bigger profits.

And it all started with modular buildings.

Getting into the Field

One thing that is spectacular for business when using modular office space is the ability to get into the field. If you are handling a large project in one area and your office is located in another, it is difficult to keep track of the small details of the project. Sure, you can drive back and forth between the two. But, let’s be real – if being successful comes from being efficient, how well are you going to do if you waste time driving between multiple locations?

Treat your business like the champion it is by giving yourself all the tools necessary to be as efficient as possible. With an office space onsite you don’t have to worry about commuting from the jobsite back to your office because you will have everything you need right there.

Modular Office Space Increases Efficiency

Some companies are turning toward mobile containers to become more efficient. It seems like a logical choice as they are fairly easy to get your hands on — and affordable, too. But the problem is that they aren’t as user-friendly as you may think.

Mobile containers or Conex boxes come with four walls that cannot be adjusted. They come in a specific size that cannot be adjusted, a door, and it may or may not have windows. If you are looking for business success and efficiency, this is not where you are going to find it.

With modular office space and buildings – like those you find with clear span tents – you have more flexibility in design. You can get the size you need to accommodate whatever activity is going to take place under the roof. And you can custom design it, too. For instance, if you are using the building for office space, you can create the offices. If it is needed for storage and organization, you can design the layout. If you are in need of an office break room for staff, it can fulfill that purpose as well.

You can’t be efficient for your business if you choose to use the same permanent structure as everyone else.

COVID’s Comeback

It is no joke – COVID-19 is making a huge comeback with this Delta variant. It impacted us more quickly than the original. The good news is we are all a little more aware of the things we need to do to prepare.

At the beginning of 2020, businesses were scrambling to figure out how to stay afloat. There was no time to try to figure out the best options because the situation was unprecedented. And businesses suffered greatly.

This time around? Business owners are prepared, have done their research, and have made decisions that will ultimately allow them to rise, rather than fall.

What’s the secret? Clearspan modular buildings and office space.

Impacts on Workspace and Workplace Safety

The biggest issue with COVID-19 is keeping employees safe. After all, who cares about efficiency when there is no one there to work efficiently, right?

The CDC guidelines say that employees and customers should practice social distancing. There needs to be space for everyone to work comfortably without having too much close contact. Unfortunately, the problem most business owners faced initially was how to increase space while dealing with a permanent structure. Many started working with a skeleton crew, only to find that it offered little relief.

Clear span modular office space and buildings allow you to branch out your space and make room for everyone. Your efficiency and productivity can remain high, your employees remain healthy, and your business successful.

In trying times you have to make decisions for your business that will yield the best results. And right now, that means finding additional space.

Benefits of Clearspan Modular Buildings

With so many different options on the market, you may be wondering why clear span modular office space and buildings are the best choice for your business – and reaching success. When you break down the situation you are in and what you are trying to achieve, you find that there are some key points that you need.

Extra space can lead to greater efficiency and greater success. A clear span temporary structure can help.

Here are just a few of the many benefits of clear span structures:

1. Just the right size

You can choose the right size for your needs. If you need extra space, you may require a little or a lot. You may need a space that is greater in width than length, etc. You are in control when it comes to clearspan structure design.

2. Customize it

Just as you can control the size, you can control things like what kind of doors you need and where you’d like them. You choose the flooring, the lighting, HVAC control, etc.

3. Construct it anywhere

Remember we talked about being conveniently located to your work? Clear span structures can be constructed anywhere. They don’t require specific flooring or grounding in order to be constructed. You can even place it in the parking lot of your office building to expand your office operations without causing too much stress on employees.

4. Versatile use

Clear span fabric structures can be used in any way you need them. The key to efficiency and success for your business will differ from the next. These structures give you a blank canvas to use in a way that will give you the best outcome.

Final Thought

You have the choice to go for mobile structures that come with a set of four unchanging walls – or a clearspan structure that can be customized to meet the needs of your business. As a business owner, you understand that flexibility and versatility are important because what may work for your competitor may not work for you. Stay ahead of others in the industry by using innovative solutions. Clearspan structures are the choice to make.

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Business

6 Warehouse Storage Layout Design Ideas for Improved Organization and Efficiency

Creating viable warehouse storage layout design is imperative to an efficient shipping and receiving process. Here are 6 ways to improve your warehouse layout.

You can have the freedom to design your own layout any way you want it — inside the biggest warehouse imaginable. But if it doesn’t work well for what you do and it doesn’t make your operation flow easily and efficiently, then it needs improvement.

A healthy bottom line comes with a streamlined ability. And these warehouse storage layout design ideas for improved organization and efficiency can make that happen.

1. Creating Optimal Flow

When you have a warehouse with predetermined, permanent walls or floor plans that have already been carved out, it is hard to create an optimal flow. You need every process of your business to move uninterruptedly from one stage to the next. With a clearspan warehouse tent, you can create the best warehouse storage layout design based on your needs.

This layout needs to be designed in the order of operations. You shouldn’t have to walk through one department to get to another. For instance, if you get a delivery of supplies that has to be sent to a storage area, the storage area should be in close proximity.  Having a layout that requires you to walk through other departments or to the other end of the warehouse to get to the storage area doesn’t make sense when you are seeking an optimal flow.

2. Keep Every Area Labeled

If you want a warehouse design that will improve organization and efficiency, then you need to keep every area labeled. This means labeling designated areas for your inventory (giving each piece of inventory a designated spot), where machines and tools or other equipment are to be housed, and various departments. This will allow every employee, regardless of how seasoned, to know right where to find certain areas and certain key things that they need to keep business flowing.

3. Implement Proper Storage Methods

In a new warehouse, you need a warehouse storage layout design that works well for your business. But the physical design isn’t the only thing you should be concerned about. We live in a digital age — and we have all sorts of tools and software programs available to us. That’s why if you are looking for design ideas to improve your organization and your efficiency, you can’t just focus on the physical.

Invest in a warehouse management system. Not only will this new technology keep you incredibly organized with everything moving smoothly, but it will allow you to make decisions based on things you can see since you will have the bigger picture at your fingertips.

You can stack your inventory for days, but if you don’t know what you are stacking or how much or how far back those rows go and how much of each item you have – phew – it is going to be hard to know where you stand.

Being organized means being able to tell where every piece of inventory is at any given moment. This also increases the flow of your business and its efficiency. Having to move boxes go through your so-called organized inventory can waste time and bottleneck your production line in more ways than one.

4. Keep Your Warehouse Space Clean

It is important to keep your warehouse space clean. Not only will it keep potential hazards away, but it also keeps your employees and your inventory safe. Dust, dirt, spills, and the like can cause disruptions in your organization’s flow. To make sure everything can run as you intended when you implemented this layout design, keep it clean.

5. Keep Aisles and Walkways Clear

It should go without saying that keeping aisles and walkways clear is also a must. Your warehouse storage layout design is meant to keep things moving smoothly. But, if an employee has to maneuver around obstacles in the walkway or take alternate routes due to blocked aisles every time he or she is trying to get from one place to another, it is going to slow things down.

Staying organized and having a space for everything will mean that there is no reason for aisles and walkways to feel cluttered and turn into unintentional obstacle courses. The more clear they remain, the least likely you are to face a fall in production.

6. Start with a Clearspan Warehouse Tent

When it comes down to having the perfect warehouse storage layout design to ensure that your company is as organized and efficient as possible, it helps to have the perfect building. Permanent structures don’t allow you the flexibility you need to create a layout that will meet your needs specifically. They come with a one-size-fits-all design – and you have to make it fit your business.

With a clearspan warehouse tent, you have the flexibility to design the layout as you see fit. You can create it in a way that will allow you to gain the most organization — leading to a streamlined flow throughout the entire building, from department to department, without any hiccups. As a result, your productivity will increase and your efficiency will leave you with a healthy, successful business.

Clearspan fabric structures can provide you with many benefits, such as:

  • Wide-open floor space with no poles or support beams to get in your way.
  • Flexibility on the placement of walls, doors, warehouse doors, sidewalls, and more.
  • Flooring options that will meet your needs.
  • HVAC system to allow for climate-controlled situations.
  • Lighting in all spaces to ensure clear visibility.

These buildings can grow with your business, whether that means increasing in size or adding additional buildings onto your property. And whether temporary or semi-permanent, they can withstand years of inclement weather without fail.

As you begin to put together your warehouse storage layout design for organization and increase efficiency, consider these 6 ideas. Maybe one will work for you or maybe all together you will find success. The important part to remember is that acquiring a space with a wide-open floor plan – such as with a clearspan tent structure – will allow you to transform it into the exact space to fit your needs. And that’s how you can get business done well.

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Business

Clearspan Tents: Changing the Commercial Distribution Center Process

COVID-19 greatly disrupted the supply chain process, affecting the commercial distribution center, the company, and the consumer. Clearspan tents can change the way industries utilize distribution centers, allowing for more flexibility, efficiency, and ultimately, more revenue.

The commercial distribution center process is at the core of our country’s supply chain. At any given time there are people all around the country – and even around the world – who are expecting to receive a shipment of goods.

With recent COVID-19 closures and reductions in production, we have experienced supply chain woes like never before. As the world is opening back and up and production is kicking into high gear, the distribution centers are going to need to be ready to handle the increased volume at an effective and efficient pace.

A clearspan tent will make all the difference. They are changing the commercial distribution center process.

Create the Right Layout

Floor plans are so important when it comes to a commercial distribution center. Employees need to physically be able to move through the center without any hurdles or obstacles getting in their way. There should be no equipment or tools or machinery left in the middle of designated walkways.

Productivity is important so the flow of the space needs to make sense. Creating the right layout, though, means having the space to do it. As the distribution center employees work their way through their day, the layout should make sense. Sometimes taking a look at things from their perspective can help you organize your layout to increase efficiency.

Clearspan tents can easily be customized to any needed size – and can grow with the company. Underneath their fabric roof, they have a wide-open space free from any poles or support beams. This gives you the optimal space to create the best layout.

Organize Your Product to Increase Efficiency

Organizing your product is another way to keep your product moving through the chain efficiently. You can’t send what you can’t find. And if your employees are spending extra time searching for things then your productivity rates are going to tank.

  • Keep your fastest moving products closer to the pickers. This cuts time to search for frequently bought items.
  • Keep popular items easy to reach and close to the ground so that additional machines or equipment are not required.
  • The least popular items should be moved to the back and out of the way.

Many distribution center managers understand the importance of maintaining organization but get overwhelmed due to lack of space. It is easy to keep things neatly placed when you have the space to do it — but not so much when you don’t.

Clearspan tents are changing the commercial distribution center process because there is no limit on space. If you need more space to properly organize your product, then you can have it. Unlike permanent brick and mortar buildings with a set amount of space, temporary warehouse tents can be adjusted to add more space.

A Geographic Focus to Reduce Costs – and Shipping Times

Does it make sense to have a commercial distribution center in Portland, Oregon when the majority of your purchases are made from the east coast of the U.S.? Surely there are reasons why you are located where you are, but what if you could get your products closer to their destination? What if you could cut down transportation costs or shipping costs, as well as reduce the transit time? Wouldn’t this greatly benefit your company?

Taking a geographic focus on your distribution process can reduce costs and shipping times.

Looking at the financial records of most distribution companies will prove that a huge chunk of costs come from the shipping. And the closer you are to a destination, the lower your shipping costs. So, why not create a facility that is closer to the majority of the buyers?

With clearspan structures, setting up a new location is a piece of cake. They don’t require time spent trying to find a warehouse that may work or having to wait for a new space to be built. Instead, you know what you are getting, how they work, and how to set up and organize your center in a new, even temporary location if needed.

It is an easy and smart business move that can increase your efficiency and your bottom dollar.

Regularly Assess Your Needs

Again, as we have seen, needs change in distribution and throughout the supply chain. Regularly assessing the needs of your commercial distribution center will help it to remain both productive and efficient. With a clearspan structure that is designed to be versatile and customized for you, you have all the tools you need to allow your business to change with the changing needs of the industry.  And, this will keep you on top.

The Value in Clearspan Tents

While we have been talking about the ways clearspan tents can benefit your commercial distribution center process, we still have not touched on all the value they can provide. For instance, they provide benefits such as:

  • Cost-effective with low cost per square foot.
  • No support posts, leaving you with the maximum use of space.
  • Ability to construct on nearly any ground or foundational surface.
  • Many different cladding options, with some that allow light through – giving you an energy-saving option.
  • Create your building of any size and still maintain durability and stability.
  • Custom and turnkey designs to choose from.
  • Durable frames that can hold up against harsh and corrosive environments.
  • Create your openings and doors where you need them for maximum efficiency. These doors can accommodate people, machinery, trucks, and the like.
  • High level of natural ventilation throughout the space with climate control availability.

Don’t let the word tent fool you. Clearspan tents are built to code, fully customizable, and are designed to withstand inclement weather. They are a fantastic option for permanent or temporary distribution space.

Remember, your commercial distribution center process can flow as well as space allows. Creating the best layout, organizing the product, and getting it closest to the consumer can transform your level of efficiency.

As we have witnessed over the last year or two, the flow of business is always changing – and you need a solution that is going to grow with you as you grow. It’s clear – clearspan buildings are that solution.

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Business

The Importance of Durable Agricultural Structures

Durable agricultural structures are essential for all aspects of agriculture, from storage to animal housing. Here is the importance of these structures, and how a clear span tent can be the perfect solution.

It doesn’t matter how advanced our world becomes in technology and growth, we will always remain connected with the agricultural industry. Whether directly or indirectly, we need this industry to thrive. After all, there is no denying it – we rely on the agricultural industry for our food supply, our country’s international trades, and the employment of tens of millions of people.

This industry is much too important and crucial to the world around us to leave it so vulnerable. We must take steps to care for everything involved in the industry – and durable agricultural structures are a vital part of this.

Where Agricultural Structures are Needed

The agricultural industry has so many different aspects and variances from one crop or livestock to another. Durable agricultural structures are required on all of them — directly or indirectly. Here are just a few of the ways these buildings can be utilized.

Storage for Hay, Grain, or Feed

There are a lot of animals to feed on a farm. This means a lot of space is required to house all of this food. Protecting it with a storage barn allows you to:

  • Keep the feed, grain, or hay dry and free from condensation that can cause mold or bacteria
  • Maintain its quality
  • Provides for natural ventilation while still keeping it protected

Keeping livestock healthy starts with the food they eat. If it is not kept in conditions conducive to health, it could have dire consequences for many, both animal and human.

Production of Livestock

Farmers know how important it is to maintain the health of livestock while also maximizing the profitability of their space. Regardless of the size of the farm, durable clearspan agricultural structures work to provide you with:

  • Natural sunlight and ventilation
  • Reduced incidence of disease
  • Clean and dry space to promote healthy livestock

With wide-open space under the fabric, you can make the most of the area with your livestock.

Housing for Cattle

It is easy for a farmer to have a lot of money tied up in his cattle. They are of much greater value than a regular old barn thanks to their amount of usable space and natural ventilation. You will also find the following advantages:

  • Clean and dry environment, reducing the risk of disease
  • Natural daytime lighting
  • Low maintenance, comfortable environment

Many farmers use clearspan tent structures to house cattle, as calf barns, or milking sheds.

Housing for Hogs

Maintaining healthy pigs and hogs means giving them a place to thrive in. Clearspan agricultural structures offer natural ventilation that keeps the space clean and dry. The risk of illness and disease is reduced, leaving you with livestock that is profitable. Plus, you will also find these perks, too:

  • Natural lighting due to sunlight
  • A stress-free housing environment
  • A comfortable and spacious environment

You can easily set your customized pens within the structure due to the wide-open floor plan.

Dairy Buildings

Interested in a dairy or milk barn? Clearspan tents are used all over the country as such – helping farmers to cut costs and increase profits, without sacrifices. Cattle remain comfortable, floorplans are wide open, and climate-sensitive situations are protected. In addition to:

  • Maintaining fresh air for animals to enjoy
  • Open ventilation and a reduced chance for disease
  • Multifunctioning space can be used for multiple purposes

Composting Buildings

Composting is a tricky process. When you throw in outside environmental issues, it is even more so. Investing in a clearspan fabric structure, your air quality can improve and you can create the perfect – protected – way to handle your compost.

  • Can be designed large enough to handle your biggest compost piles.
  • A high level of ventilation increases air quality while reducing odor.
  • Reduce runoff to protect surrounding areas.

Composting is a sustainable practice that is beneficial to our environment. Clearspan tents are also sustainable – making them a great choice.

The Benefits of Durable Agricultural Structures

Since we have touched on the many areas within the agricultural industry that make use of durable clearspan structures, you may find yourself wondering just what all the hype is about. Why are so many around the globe using these structures? What makes them so beneficial and useful?

Truth is, there are many benefits that these durable structures bring the agricultural industry explaining why they are sought time and time again. Let’s take a look at a few of the most important.

1. Customizable designs.

These buildings can be designed to meet your needs no matter what size you are looking for or what the intended purpose is.

2. Ventilation.

Natural ventilation is used in all the buildings, making sure there is always a healthy flow of air. This not only keeps the conditions within the building comfortable but also reduces the risk of mold or bacteria growth.

3. Fast construction.

When you have an influx in livestock or feed, or you are just ready to get going on a new project, you want to have your building up and ready to use quickly. After all, time is money — and waiting for something to be constructed is not good for the bottom line. Clearspan buildings can have you moving forward in no time.

4. Energy-efficient lighting.

Because the fabric allows for natural lighting, you can cut energy costs by using sunlight.

5. Durable construction.

You are placing precious cargo underneath these tents so you need the reassurance that it will protect your livestock, feed, and equipment. Clearspan structures are designed to withstand many different types of strong, inclement weather without fail. Plus, the frame is free from corrosion and the fabric cover is strong, weatherproof,  and flame retardant.

6. An affordable option.

Whether you need a structure for a temporary project or for use on a permanent basis, you will find this clearspan structures can get the job done well – without breaking your budget.

Final Thoughts

The agricultural industry uses a great amount of open land — and requires coverage that can reach the most remote areas. The buildings they choose to use must be reliable, efficient, and durable. With all the benefits that come with agricultural structures and clearspan tents, it really is the only clear choice for the job.

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Business

6 Tips to Successfully Manage Supply Chain Disruption

Supply chain disruption can cause havoc on your business and lead to negative consequences. Is your business prepared if a disruption occurs? Here are 6 tips to successfully manage interruptions of your supply chain.

Our U.S. supply chains in many different industries have really taken a beating over the last year or two – especially thanks to the global pandemic. Disruptions in the process due to economic shutdowns during COVID, reduction in staff due (again, thanks to COVID), hackers tapping into our gas pipelines and others, tractor-trailer drivers going on strike, natural disasters, and so much more.

Just recently more and more consumers are discovering an increase in price for items they usually buy. Why? It all boils down to supply chain disruptions.

To have a successful business (and a successful economy, too),  you have to pay attention to your supply chain and manage it well. It is one of the fundamental aspects of growing a business. This involves:

  • Creating the plan for your supply chain.
  • Executing the plan carefully — and controlling the variables.
  • Monitor the supply chain’s performance at each level.
  • Make adjustments where necessary to keep the process moving efficiently.

So, when things start to go wrong at any step, supply chain disruption will affect the entire line. If you want to avoid these situations, then you will need to successfully manage your supply chain with these 6 tips.

1. Have a Clear Vision of Your Entire Supply Chain

Imagine driving on the highway in heavy fog. You slow down (and probably turn the radio down), squint your eyes, and attempt to watch the road ahead of you. But, you can’t really see it, can you? Perhaps if you have a car in front of you, you are putting your trust in its taillights to see you through. Not being able to see through the fog on a highway has led to one too many major pile-ups.

If you can’t see all aspects of your supply chain, how can you make a quick decision when you are facing disruption in its flow? What you do to help one element get back on track could severely disrupt another.

Have a deep understanding of your entire supply chain and be able to monitor it at every step and have a better plan of action if supply chain disruption were to arise.

2. Communication is Key

You absolutely must keep the lines of communication open between you and the team members throughout the supply chain. Leaders at every step should be able to report fluctuations and changes that are visible so that adjustments can be made in other areas.

If you find that something is off, you will need to address the issues effectively — and, again, you will need a clear vision of the entire supply chain to do so. No matter what, everyone needs to be on the same page. And that means everyone – from the hourly floor worker on up.

3. Check Your Supply Chain Regularly

You take your car for oil changes and routine maintenance every 3,000 miles. You go to the doctor and the dentist for checkups to make sure your body and teeth are in good working order. You taste your pasta sauce as it’s cooking to make sure it doesn’t need any extra seasoning. So it only makes that you’d take an in-depth look into your supply chain at regular intervals.

This audit will let you know if your supply chain is vulnerable to disruptions or if it is lagging in some way. Taking the time to do this can save you from bigger issues down the road. It keeps your supply chain healthy.

4. Have Alternate Solutions

Your backup solutions could be different vendors, alternate suppliers, or variations in your product. You never know what may come your way or from which direction. Always being prepared can reduce your risk of being without.

For instance, many corporations choose to stockpile their inventory. Keeping an eye on the economy, if they notice that a piece of inventory seems to be scarce, they may increase their availability. Should it become unavailable or delayed due to backorder, it won’t disrupt their chain.

Others opt for having backup vendors and suppliers. If you solely rely on one vendor and supplier to keep your production alive, you could be in for a major supply chain disruption one day. Having a backup just in case is all about being prepared.

5. Fill Your Storage Gap with a Temporary Tent

So what happens if you decide to stockpile inventory? Or what happens if part of your supply chain comes to a screeching halt and your warehouse is overflowing with products that have nowhere to go?

You can fill your storage gap – whatever that may look like for your company at the moment – using a temporary tent. These temporary warehouse solutions can be put together very quickly right where you need them. They are customized to meet your needs in all ways, such as:

  • Sizing
  • Lighting
  • Flooring
  • Climate control
  • Doors

These clearspan tents have no inner beams or poles so you have a wide-open space to organize a layout that will meet your needs. The fabric structures can be strong enough to stand up to inclement weather and keep your supplies and equipment secure until the supply chain woes get ironed out.

6. Have an Emergency Plan

With anything in life – especially in business – you should always have a backup plan. Something will likely go wrong at one point or another and you will inevitably face some sort of supply chain disruption. Regardless of whether this disruption is huge or minor, you need to have a place in place to keep things flowing. Or, at the very least, how to manage when things come to a screeching halt, such as investing in the temporary tent structure we just talked about.

As issues arise, document what happened and how you fixed it. This can help you develop a bigger, successful plan for the future.

No matter how streamlined we think our supply chains are, even consumers now are realizing that one small hiccup has a massive impact at all levels. Make sure you have a clear vision of your entire supply chain, have a backup plan, and have your temporary tent structure on speed dial. Don’t let some small supply chain disruption take down all your hard work.

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Business

Creating a Quality Project Execution Plan: 7 Steps for Success

 

Creating a quality project execution plan is essential for efficient and profitable project completion, here are 7 tips for success.

For your business to continue growing and moving forward, you are going to encounter big projects. This could mean introducing a new division, new technology, a renovation of your current workspace, or even a unique community project. Whatever the project, it is all about building your company and leading a successful path.

That is, as long as you have a plan for your project. Trying to go face-to-face with a huge project that could lead to success or failure will require a project execution plan – or you will get the latter result.

To get started, you may ask yourself – How will my project get done? If you find yourself looking to answer this question, you have come to the right place. This means your mind is already looking for a plan. 

Creating a quality project execution plan involves these 7 steps for success.

1. Set Your Goals

Before you can do anything else, you must define your project and set your goals. You must know what you are doing, how you are doing it, and what it will all look like when you are finished. You will want to be sure to set milestones along the way with the steps you will take to reach each goal.

While setting your goals, you will want to be sure that you also take into consideration any challenges or potential threats you may receive along the way, as well as any risks involved.

Laying all of this out in a clear plan is the best way to kick off a new project.

2. Roles and Responsibilities

Who is going to be involved in the project’s execution? Who will be impacted? Who are the key figures?

State the roles and responsibilities of all who are responsible along the way – and what they are responsible for. And, while you are putting the team together, be sure to include details of how communication will run between everyone involved so that everyone is on the same page.

Remember, every successful project needs to run smoothly – and it can only do that if everyone works together.

3. Schedule and Project Timeline

When creating a thorough project execution plan, you need to have a timeline that will allow you to move through the process of successfully completing the project easily. This part of your plan will state dates for each milestone as well as a deadline. Be realistic about setting these dates and allow a little wiggle room in case emergencies or hiccups in the plan happen.

Everyone involved in the project – including vendors – should be aware of the deadlines that impact them.

4. Equipment Procurement

Depending on your project, you are sure to need equipment. This could mean anything from heavy machinery to dry-erase boards for brainstorming. However, the idea is to get every piece of equipment you need or have it ordered and lined up before your project commences. Doing so allows you to move through each step smoothly.

With things like heavy equipment or clear span fabric structures for additional space, you will need to customize your order in advance so that everything is ready to go exactly when you need it. 

5. Storage and Additional Space

Suppose you are working through a project that requires you to have additional space, such as storage for large equipment or to house temporary offices as you remodel or even additional planning space. In that case, you will need to be sure you have an additional storage space on site.

Securing this space will be included in your project execution plan. Clearspan temporary warehouse tents are versatile enough to fill this need and, thanks to their ease of use, you could find it done with little effort on your part.

It is simple – projects run more smoothly when everyone has the necessary space (without clutter) to get their job done. So, take the necessary steps to secure the space needed for a successful project. 

6. Logistics and Transportation 

To keep your project moving, you need to work out the logistics of each step. Here is an example:

Your normal business procedures involve receiving supplies and shipping out completed products. If you are doing a renovation of your current space, the designated areas you have for supplies and inventory to be housed will likely be interrupted. What do you do? With quality planning, you can use a tent structure to handle your storage while you move forward with the renovation. Everything will be right where it should be to keep business flowing.

If you are using a tent as part of your project planning, you need it to be close by. Wasting time-traveling unnecessarily can lead to delays in your project completion. The installation and removal of the tent are just another example of getting your logistics for the project. It can be there when you need it, and it is gone when your project is over. No matter what you use it for, the idea is that it is there to streamline your project – straight to the finish line.

7. Maintain Focus on Daily Operations

There is a lot that goes into planning a project and seeing it through to a successful finish. For most companies, a big project doesn’t stop daily operations. Therefore, your plan needs to include enough assistance from others so that the project can move forward with a focus still on day-to-day operations.

It doesn’t matter how big the project is; you simply cannot halt a forward-moving business. Take advantage of all opportunities available to you so that you may do both.

There is a difference between a project execution plan and a quality project execution plan. If you want to create a plan that will help you stay within your deadline, meet your goal, and keep the entire thing running smoothly, then you need to plan – and take advantage of all the benefits of a temporary tent structure. And, with a company like American Pavilion ready to handle all aspects of this tent for you, you never have to take your eyes off of the finish line.  

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Business

Sustainable Building Design: Clear Span Tents Can Help

Sustainable building design is becoming increasingly more important in every aspect of life. Regardless of your needs, clear span structures can help improve your sustainability footprint.

Everything we do in life comes with the opportunity to either harm or help the planet. Now is the time we need to pay attention to our actions and how they will impact our future. As business owners, leaders, and decision-makers, we need to set the standard.

You have an opportunity to make a difference when you choose to practice sustainability – regardless of what industry you are in.

Clearspan tents consider this and offer a sustainable building design to help.

What is Sustainability?

The fundamental idea behind sustainability is creating a level of homeostasis between nature and humans. We should each be able to live on this planet together – and thrive. And our ability to live, breathe, and survive here depends on our environment in nearly every way.

So, sustainability means not be harmful or damaging to our natural environments – and not drain our earth of all the natural resources we have been given.

The way we live impacts our earth and our future.

Examples of Sustainable Business Practices

Taking steps to move toward more sustainable business practices is how leaders in the community can set the bar high and be examples for others. Below are a few examples of what is meant by sustainable business practices. 

  • Working together with employees to find ways to reduce waste in daily business.
  • Using water-efficient sinks and toilets.
  • Switching to energy-efficient lighting.
  • Using vendors who have the same vision of sustainability.
  • Encouraging recycling throughout the workplace.

Even the smallest changes can grow to have a significant impact on our environment.

Clearspan Tents: A Sustainable Building Design

During the regular course of business, you focus your attention on vendors who have incorporated sustainability practices into their organization. Of course, you should do this for everything you do. In other words, when you need a temporary tent structure, extra storage space, an event tent, additional office space, and more – you look for a sustainable option.

In this case, your sustainable building design is a clearspan tent.

Delivering and Constructing a Clearspan Tent

If you were going to look into the construction of a permanent, traditional structure, you would have to place a heavy reliance on labor, materials, and an incredible amount of time to have the building constructed. In addition, the materials likely used in this construction would cause quite a large carbon footprint. Not to mention that you would permanently have to clear away nature to build that building.

With a clearspan fabric structure, you get a semi-permanent space that fits your sustainable building design goals. First, it is lightweight, which means transporting it to the erection site will use less energy. Second, the construction doesn’t require any site work before it can be installed. Finally, the clearspan tent is drilled directly into the ground without anything additional needed.

When you no longer need the tent structure, it can be removed without causing damage to the area, making it a very environmentally friendly option.

An Energy-Efficient Choice

When you make energy-efficient choices, you are deciding to help reduce energy-related pollution. Which, in the long run, can improve the quality of life. The International Energy Agency (IEA) says that greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced when energy-efficient choices are made.

One such choice would be that of a clearspan tent.

Thanks to a sustainable building design that uses fabric material as an overhead covering, clearspan tents can use natural light during daylight hours. They do not require any additional lighting – thus reducing energy usage. In addition, the fabric itself is made up of polyethylene which means that it works with the climate, not against it.

In other words, during the summer months, this fabric will keep out the heat. And during the winter months, it keeps out the cold. Of course, this also often reduces the need to run cooling and heating systems, although they are available.  

The ability of this fabric structure to work with the environment rather than against it is a sure sign of sustainability.

The Right Size, Nothing More

Bigger is not always better – especially when it means impacting the environment. With clearspan tents, you get to choose the size you need without using something unnecessarily. If you only need a small space, then that is what you get with a clearspan temporary structure. And, as a result, you have minimal impact on the environment.

Just like you do not want to pay for more than you need, you do not want to damage the environment or be less sustainable than necessary.

An incredible amount of customization allows you to get only what you want.

Strong Fabric Means Recycled Fabric

When something is constructed using sustainable quality materials, you can often reuse it for something else down the road. This is a great way to practice sustainability since you do not have to send anything to the landfill but rather reuse it for a purpose.

This is what clearspan tents are all about. The fabric that they are manufactured with is a very durable cover of polyethylene. It can withstand inclement weather and various hazards. And it can be reused at a later time if needed.

Perhaps the best part is that when you are done with the tent or when you are ready to dispose of the fabric, it is 100% recyclable. It will not just be thrown into the trash and end up in a landfill.

Taking steps to lead a more sustainable life may not seem like it has too great of an impact. But every little bit helps. And when others see you making choices with the environment in mind, they are more likely to follow your example.

Clearspan tents offer you an excellent service for little environmental cost. These energy-efficient solutions to the need for additional space combined with their vast customizability mean that you are making smart choices to reduce your carbon footprint and increase the health of the environment around you. And it is all because you chose a clearspan structure – and sustainable building design.

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Business

The Importance of Flexibility in Business for Post-COVID Reopening

As businesses continue to reopen, companies must understand the importance of flexibility throughout the post-COVID era.

We are finally seeing a light at the end of a tunnel. COVID-19 made its way into our world, disrupting everything from our families and healthcare system to political agendas and our economy. Many businesses were flourishing with promising futures before the pandemic. Unfortunately, these same businesses are no longer thriving. Many have shut their doors.

Thankfully, all businesses have not met the same fate. Some businesses have been able to stay afloat through everything – and they hope to come back better than ever with the post-COVID reopening.

Flexibility is the key to make sure this happens.   

Life After COVID

So, here is the million-dollar question: What will life be like after COVID? 

Many businesses have shut down for extended periods. Others have drastically cut down the number of staff they have. Some have turned to an all-remote, work-from-home officeb eliminating the need for a physical office space altogether. Even more so, some employers have found that by reducing commutes and shortening workweeks, production has skyrocketed.

These changes during the pandemic must affect what life will look like after, right? Maybe it has given leaders around the world a chance to re-think the way we do business. Not to mention the CDC recommendations for business – they are sure to follow for the future. After all, COVID is still here. The goal is to maintain a healthy bottom line while keeping employees safe in the process.

Our thought process that something like the coronavirus would never happen here has been shattered. Instead, it arrived, and it took over our lives for longer than we would have liked. That is why life after COVID is likely to contain precautions – personally and in business.

The Importance of Flexibility

As we move into this unknown season, business owners must understand the importance of flexibility and look at ways to be more adaptable to any and all situations that may arise. Think back to March of 2020. Nobody knew what was going to happen. Nobody even expected such drastic measures would take place. Shutting down the economy entirely? Requiring 6ft of space between employees and customers? Only allowing 25% capacity in restaurants? All these concepts were incredibly foreign to us at the time.

Some owners were able to re-invent their business to fit the circumstances. Many businesses adapted to the changes as quickly as possible. Those who did these things are here today. Those who could not, may not be. But the idea of being flexible and able to adapt to changes as they come will speak the longevity.

Ways to Keep Your Business Flexible 

As a business owner, you know the importance of flexibility, but you also know that there needs to be structure. So, how do you keep your business flexible? You will find a few ways below.

1. Regularly update your policies

As the world changes, so should your policies. Be intentional about making sure everyone knows and understands the policies as they are created. In fact, you should be updating your policies for the post-COVID business realm.

2. Prepare for health concerns

Make sure that you take proactive steps to prevent the spread of germs throughout your organization. For example, allow for additional space for employees and customers. This additional space is crucial – especially if you are moving back to your old capacity levels. Also, check for proper ventilation and continue strict cleaning methods.

3. Have a plan

We do not know what the next thing may be to strike our country – and our economy. So, you have to be ready. Planning now means that when something does arise, you are prepared for it. As others struggle to find their way, you will be one step ahead.

As always, though, you want everything to be flexible so that if your plans must change, you have a policy for that. It can change, and your employees know to follow. 

How a Clearspan Tent Fits the Plan

The coronavirus may be declining in numbers, but it is still here. So, as you move forward with developing flexible options for your business and a proactive plan, keep COVID in mind – and know that clearspan tents can help.

Throughout the pandemic, many industries – hospitals, schools, colleges and universities, businesses, construction companies, etc. – have sought clearspan tents to manage, adapt, and overcome the power of COVID. And what they have discovered is that these tents can help any business in any industry reopen safely while continuing to adjust and reshape to the new environment.

This is what post-COVID success looks like.

Clearspan tents are versatile solutions, which is precisely why you need one. They can be designed in many different sizes, so you are sure to find what works for your company. Whether it is expanding office space or offer more dining space to meet social distancing needs, the accessories that come with clearspan buildings can leave you with the perfect space.

These temporary buildings are there when you need them, so you are not stuck paying for a permanent structure if things find their way back to a more normal way of life. And they can come with an HVAC system that gives you healthy ventilation under the fabric roof. Germs away!

Going Forward

As we advance into the future, we do not know what we are up against. The best defense for our business is to understand the importance of flexibility and create adaptable options in our toolbox. So, if we encounter a bigger spread of coronavirus or the like, or a natural disaster damages the foundation of your office building, or something else impedes your ability to function as normal, having an additional option – such as a clearspan tent – can mean the difference between hanging an open or closed sign on your door.

Always think ahead and be flexible. Life around us is constantly changing – and your business needs to, as well. The more you allow yourself to ride the ebb and flow of it, the better chance your business will survive.

Now, how about that clearspan tent?  

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Business

6 Benefits of Portable Structures and Temporary Buildings

Regardless of your industry or business, there are many reasons to utilize a portable structures or temporary building – here are just a few.

As a business owner, you could probably write a book on all the challenges and obstacles you have encountered. It is safe to say that at some point, you have likely learned that you have to be able to adapt if you want to reach a high level of success.

Changes happen every day that can impact your business. These changes could be widespread, such as a change in supply and demand, a downward dip in the economy, or a global pandemic that infected our communities. Or, they may result from faulty machines or equipment or staffing issues. No matter what happens, when a change affects one aspect of your business, it can have a rippling effect.

If you want to succeed, you must be aware of innovative, efficient solutions that will keep your business in forwarding motion.

Portable structures and temporary buildings are one of the best answers to many situations you need to resolve.

What are Temporary Portable Structures Used For?

Many industries around the world turn to temporary or portable structures for help in all sorts of instances. Believe it or not, these fabric structures are used for:

  • Events and trade shows
  • Additional space for social distancing
  • Field hospitals
  • Learning or education centers
  • Storage facilities
  • Temporary housing or dining areas
  • Construction use
  • Temporary office space

And that is just to name a few. You will find them used frequently by:

  • Construction crews
  • Those in the agricultural business
  • Non-profits
  • U.S. Military
  • Colleges and universities
  • Emergency response teams
  • Event planners

The truth is, no matter what sector you are in, there are benefits to using portable structures and temporary buildings. Let’s talk about 6 of them.

Benefit #1: A Cost-Effective Solution

You are a business owner, which means that you make decisions based on a budget. Whether you need a temporary tent structure for something that was planned or for an emergency, you need to work within your budget.

Your options are plentiful, but you need to do your research to find something that will give you what you are looking for without causing heart palpitations for your accounting department. When it comes to needing extra space, this is where a temporary structure comes into play.

Unlike permanent space, these structures are affordable and still offer a solid solution. They give you all the benefits of a permanent indoor space without the hefty cost. Not to mention that most brick-and-mortar spaces will require a lease term for a specified amount of time. This means potentially paying for something you no longer need.

Benefit #2: Flexible Sizing

Why would you lease 25,000 square feet of space when you only need 10,000 square feet? Finding a permanent structure that is within your budget, close in location, and the correct dimensions you are looking for is like trying to find a seed in the middle of an apple without ever taking a bite. Most people end up settling and try to make the best use of the space they could get.

Does that make any sense at all when you can rent a temporary tent structure and get the exact size you need?

Portable structures are designed to allow customization. You can design it to be the size you need so that there is no wasted space or too little space. Plus, should your needs change once it is already erected, expanding is no trouble at all.

Benefit #3: Fast Installation – and Removal

You’ve got a lot going on in your day-to-day world that the last thing you need to worry about is the installation of a portable building. The good news is that these temporary structures can be installed very quickly. They can be de-constructed and removed quickly, too. And, since time is money, well – you don’t want to worry about having to pay for a building longer than you need it, right?

So whether you are working with a deadline or need the fabric structure on an emergency basis, you won’t have to worry.

Benefit #4: Durable Construction

Most people hear the words portable, temporary, or fabric tent structure and think that it is a flimsy solution that may not give you the same protection that a more permanent structure will. However, this assumption would be false.

These portable structures are designed to meet very strict wind loads. They are built to withstand all sorts of inclement weather and can keep everything safe inside no matter what is going on outside. When the derecho hit the Midwest last year, many tents didn’t make it – but clearspan tent structures did.

Their durable construction makes these a solid solution.

Benefit #5: Can Be Installed Anywhere 

Location is everything when it comes to business logistics. Leasing a permanent space and having to drive only 10 minutes out of your way to get there can throw a wrench into the streamlined processes in your business.

Portable structures and temporary buildings can be installed anywhere. They don’t require a cement slab or a soft ground for guy lines (because there aren’t any guy lines!). Instead, you can have them installed on dirt, grass, sand, or even in the parking lot of your business.

How is that for convenience?

Benefit #6: A Multitude of Available Accessories 

Your needs will be different from the needs of others when it comes to a building. Why choose a permanent structure that comes as-is when you can have a portable structure that can be designed just the way you need it?

Flooring, lighting, sidewalls, warehouse doors, entry and exit doors, and more are available to you. You can even have climate control and restrooms. That means your temporary space can feel just like a permanent one – specifically designed for your needs.

Running a successful business means making smart choices. With benefits such as durable construction, fast installation, and high customizability, portable structures and temporary buildings are the solutions you need. Save time and money when you choose to be covered (literally) by one of these structures. You’ll be glad you did.

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