The indefatigable Calculated Risk is reporting via the Census Bureau that outlook for construction spending remains weak. Overall, residential construction spending is down 61.5% from the 2006 peak. While non-residential spending is up slightly, but still down 22% from it's peak in October 2008. Sadly, the trend in non-residential construction points to further declines.
On the bright side (?), CR is predicting very modest growth (read: sluggish) in residential investment for 2010. I'll keep an eye out for the new Architectural Billings Index (ABI) for updates. An uptick in the ABI generally means construction spending will be up a few months down the road as architecture billings are a leading indicator for construction spending. So far, the index has been stuck in negative territory.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
Work and Morality
Found this on the usually great, occasionally ridiculous TED website.
I found Mr. Schwartz's talk a nice complement to some of what I would like to say on this blog. I especially liked the idea that rules and incentives in school and the workplace tend to stifle creativity and encourage mediocrity. Mediocrity is one thing we need less of.
It is a video, but is not very demanding visually. You could easily put it on as a background to whatever else you are doing. Enjoy.
I found Mr. Schwartz's talk a nice complement to some of what I would like to say on this blog. I especially liked the idea that rules and incentives in school and the workplace tend to stifle creativity and encourage mediocrity. Mediocrity is one thing we need less of.
It is a video, but is not very demanding visually. You could easily put it on as a background to whatever else you are doing. Enjoy.
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