Efficiency on a lighting project is critical to profitability. Contractors seek ways to save time and money — particularly on labor costs — to ensure maximum profitability from every job. While lighting installations come with their own set of challenges, properly managing material can save time and ultimately increase job profitability.

Professionals who brave the elements year-round know that summertime often creates particularly harsh outdoor working conditions. Exposure to heat and the sun is not only challenging from a productivity perspective but can lead to serious short- and long-term health implications.

It’s not uncommon for contractors to face material management obstacles. Projects are often delayed because of haphazard storage, damaged products and other issues. While some of these problems are out of a contractor’s control, others can be solved with outside expertise, preventative measures, and Lean practices.

Article originally published Feb. 4, 2016, and updated for accuracy and relevance.

In the immortal words of "Game of Thrones," winter is here. Luckily for us, we don't have to worry about facing the army of the dead in 100-foot-high snow drifts. There are, however, plenty of outdoor workers who will be exposed to the harsh elements this season. As conditions start to deteriorate, brush up on these 5 essential tips for every outdoor winter worker.

Contractors are always under pressure to get a job done on time. When they don’t, there can be a negative impact on costs and the client relationship. That’s why it’s ironic that construction is one of the more inefficient industries when it comes to work processes.