February 6, 2008—FMI, management consultants and investment bankers to the construction industry, announce the publication of the 2008 U.S. Construction Overview.
Published annually, the Overview offers a comprehensive report on vital construction trends, says FMI. It also forecasts the growth or decline in each market segment and geographic region, noting both short-term and long-term considerations.
The 2008 Overview forecasts a 5.8 percent growth of construction put in place for the coming year, although it was down 3.7 percent in 2007.
In addition, the 2008 Overview discusses standout trends in the construction industry, such as:
- Green Building. Green, nonresidential construction put in place was $13.4 billion in 2006. By 2008, the Overview predicts, $21.2 billion of all new nonresidential construction will employ the use of green- building principles.
- Productivity Improvement. Productivity improvement is approaching safety in importance for self- performers. Firms have begun to identify productivity as a critical strategic issue to provide sustained return on investment as well as an opportunity to gain competitive advantage. Using planning tools and job cost systems to manage projects are just some of the ways contractors can focus on productivity.
FMI has published the Overview since 1977. The publication surveys, analyzes and summarizes trends in the building and construction industry and provides all sectors of the construction industry with an overall picture of factors influencing construction spending in the various sectors for the upcoming 18 months. The cost is $135.
To purchase a copy, see the FMI Web site.