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Try Technology Before You Buy, at IBS Computer Labs
 Industry professionals will be able to sample the latest information technology business solutions at 20 computer labs at nextBUILD™ — the home building technologies component of the 2007 International Builders' Show (IBS) — coming to Orlando, Fla. in February.
In the 90-minute labs, attendees will be able to "try before they buy" such technologies as computer-aided design and drafting software, estimating software, workflow management software that can help reduce cycle time, voice recognition software that can streamline communications and help make jobsite supervisors more productive, and more.
The following is a preview of several labs at nextBUILD™:
Speech Recognition Software to Streamline Field Communications
 BuilderWerks automatic speech recognition software, by IntoText of Tampa, Fla., can streamline communications from the field by enabling construction superintendents and others to bypass cumbersome technology when sending critical business data to their back office systems.
Brig Johnson, president of IntoText and a former construction superintendent, said BuilderWerks only requires that users learn a simple “dictation protocol” to send vendor-, customer- or other data to support personnel.
At nextBuild™, computer lab participants will learn how to create a voice profile, configure the few setting that control e-mailing and faxing reports, and then use BuilderWerks in a guided walk-through of a virtual house to enter punch items and schedule activities.
Participants also will learn about how BuilderWerks can improve processes, speed jobs and document key details and agreements.
Computer-Aided Architectural Design Software
SoftPlan Architectural Design Software is computer-aided design and drafting software to help create floor plans, picture elevations, offer three-dimensional renderings and generate materials lists rapidly and easily.
Participants in the SoftPlan-sponsored computer lab will use the software to complete a hands-on project ― such as a pool house or garage.
They will also get an overview of all of SoftPlan’s design tools and be given demo CDs.
A Complete Management System for the Production
BuilderMT Sage Timberline offers a complete information and process management solution for production builders to reduce cycle time and improve customer service and warranty performance.
Participants in BuilderMT’s lab on workflow solutions will learn how the tool helps builders tighten their operations “from dirt to defects” and grow their bottom line.
A second BuilderMT lab focuses on field management technology to improve superintendent effectiveness and includes demonstrations of Web-based trade portal and tablet technologies.
Attendees at both labs will receive demo CDs and can sign up for in-depth presentations on the show floor.
Full Potential From Estimating Software
Sage Timberline Office lab participants will learn how to take full advantage of their estimating software investment sooner by using new tools for database setup and implementation. Demonstrations will include the Database Builder Wizard andfeatures that decrease the amount of time needed for the database-building process.
A second lab featuring Sage Master Builder will demonstrate how an integrated solution can help improve project management and allow jobs to proceed more smoothly. Participants will view a new Executive Dashboard to enable builders to constantly take their company’s financial “temperature.”
One-on-one demonstrations will be offered on the show floor and special discounts will be offered for purchases made on site at IBS.
Other computer labs will allow nextBuild™ attendees to sample:
NAHB staff also will facilitate three labs, including one demonstrating how to get the most out of the NAHB Web site: www.nahb.org.
Go to My Planner to Sign Up for the Labs
To sign up for the labs, go to My Show Planner for dates and times on the IBS Web site.
Register for IBS Early for Your State Hotel Room Block
Last year, more than 105,000 housing professionals attended the builders’ show. Register early to request a room in their state hotel room block.
For more information, or to register, visit www.buildersshow.com.
 NAHB Has Nearly 300 Resources to Help You Run Your Business More Profitably
Go to NAHB's Business Management Tools Web pages (available to members only) for instant access to nearly 300 timesaving, moneymaking and cost-cutting business resources to help you run your business more profitably. Get guidance on accounting and financial management, business strategy, computers and information technology, customer service, human resources and more.
Resources are added weekly, so bookmark www.nahb.org/biztools to go directly to these vital business management resources.
Local and state home builders associations can link directly to www.nahb.org/biztools from their Web site and give their members instant access to these resources. It will make your HBA's Web site the place to go for the information and guidance that members need to succeed.
 NAHB Kit Gives Builders Back-to-Basics Tips in Cooling Market
With the current cooling of the nation’s housing market expected to persist into the middle of next year, NAHB has developed a comprehensive online toolkit geared to providing association members with information that will help them prosper in today’s changing business environment.
To access the “Back to Basics” toolkit, you must be an NAHB member and have a login to www.nahb.org. To create a login, go to www.nahb.org/login or click on the log-in button on the main menu bar.
For assistance, call the NAHB Member Service Center at 800-368-5242.
Subscribe to NAHB’s Business of Building e/Source
NAHB’s Business of Building e/Source is your monthly electronic guide to the hot issues and emerging trends in home building business management. You’ll find practical advice, tricks of the trade and sound business guidance — all delivered monthly, straight to your desktop, in a quick and easy-to-read format. Business of Building e/Source is available free to NAHB members and their employees.
To subscribe, visit www.nahb.org/BoB on the Members Only side of the NAHB Web site.
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