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Labor Burden
What is Labor Burden?
Labor burden in the construction industry refers to the additional costs borne by a construction firm beyond direct wages paid to employees. It encapsulates all indirect expenses associated with employing a workforce such as benefits, workers compensation, insurance, PTO, retirement pensions, uniforms, training costs, and equipment among other employment related costs. An accurate understanding of labor burden is crucial for construction firms because it directly impacts bidding and project pricing efficiency. When effectively managed, it can improve a firm's profitability and long-term financial stability. Hence, Labor Burden is a key financial metric in the construction industry.
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Other construction terms
What is Software as a Service (SaaS)?
Software as a Service (SaaS) in the context of the construction industry is a key model of cloud computing. It allows construction firms to access software over the internet on a subscription basis. Examples of SaaS tools in construction include project management applications, design software, and collaboration tools. The biggest advantage for the construction industry is that SaaS eliminates the need for hardware acquisition, software licensing, and complex installations. It enables real-time data sharing, enhancing collaboration among teams located in different locations of the world. Users can access services from any internet-enabled device, offering mobility and flexibility. Investment into maintenance and upgrade is also reduced as the SaaS provider takes care of these. Thus, SaaS plays a vital role in streamlining construction operations by making software more accessible and affordable.
What is Davis-Bacon?
Davis-Bacon refers to the Davis-Bacon Act of 1931, a pivotal labor law in the United States that impacts the construction industry. Established by Congress, this act ensures that workers on federal construction projects are paid at least the locally prevailing wages and fringe benefits for corresponding work on similar projects in the area. This commonly applies to federally funded or assisted construction projects such as public buildings, highways or dams. The main goal of this law is to prevent non-local or out-of-state contractors from low-balling local firms on wages, providing a level playing field for all contractors and protecting local labor markets.
What is a Lender?
A lender, in the context of the construction industry, is a bank, financial institution, or a private individual that provides funds for construction projects. They lend money with the understanding that the amount will be returned, often with interest, as per the terms of a loan agreement. The borrower can be a contractor, real estate developer, or a homeowner needing funding for a building or renovation project. Lenders assess the viability of the projects and the borrower's solvency before loan approval. They play a vital role in construction financing, facilitating economic growth by enabling infrastructure development. They also manage risks by using construction loans that follow a draw schedule that matches the construction stages, ensuring the project's timely completion. Ultimately, lenders power the various construction operations, providing necessary liquidity and fostering business growth and expansion.
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