Organization & People

Human Dimensions Assessment of Top-Performing Personnel

This study from the New Horizons Foundation identified the human dimensions (personality, emotional intelligence, and behavioral traits) of key job roles within SMACNA contractors. The study uncovered a lot about the top 10% of performers among

Organizational Adoption of New Technologies: Best Practices for SMACNA Contractors

SMACNA members are eager to adopt new technologies, operational processes, and business strategies. Yet the implementation of organizational change – defined as an intentional, company-level adoption of new practices, technologies, or management

Best Practices for Field Leader Succession

Field Leader Succession is the process of developing and transitioning new leaders so they can replace their predecessors at the foreman, general foreman, or superintendent level. This white paper focuses on best practices in field leadership

Engaging a Workforce in Transition - Keeping Skilled Labor

This short white paper outlines the steps necessary to create a highly engaged workforce that will sustain your organization and manage the transition from one generation to the next.

An Executive Exit: A Closer Look at the Factors That Drive Successful Executive Transitions

There is significant research on laying the organizational groundwork for transition and identifying and preparing a successor. However, there is no formal set of guidelines for a successor transitioning into the CEO role.

Tools for the Hiring, Promotion, and Talent Development of Sheet Metal and Mechanical Contractors

The New Horizons Foundation partnered with lead researchers at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and the University of Kansas to understand how personality and aptitude assessments are being used successfully in the construction industry.

Enhancing Your Organizational Structure: An Approach to Profitable Operations

This white paper focuses on traditional and functional organizational structures. It offers a simple and easily understood contrast and comment on the appropriateness of each approach. In contrast to the traditional structure, the paper concludes

Using a Board of Directors, Peer Groups and Other Resources to Challenge and Enhance Performance

This white paper offers advice and suggestions on the effective use of outside resources to improve performance of HVAC and sheet metal contractors.

The Use of Just-in-Time Training in Construction

The Just-in-Time Training (JITT) report examines in detail the concept and application of Just-in-Time Training.

Strategic Thinking

Strategic Thinking is a blueprint for contractors seeking to use the Futures Study to improve their position as the industry recovers and stabilizes.