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Welcome!
Welcome to the November edition of New(S)olutions, our monthly newsletter.
In this edition, we have exciting news about our new e-commerce website, a project we just completed, a new one we were just awarded and extensive coverage about the state of our industry. We will also focus on giving you some helpful business tips, ask some questions, share some humor and update you on other industry happenings. As the Thanksgiving holiday is upon us,we also want to take the time to thank all of you who read this newsletter for your ongoing patronage, friendship and support.
Through Facebook, Twitter, our blog and our presence on the Behance Network we are well positioned to help you connect with us. Please let us know what you think.
If you would like to forward this newsletter to friends or colleagues, it's easy! Just click on the Forward email link at the bottom of this newsletter.
And please, give us your comments and suggestions on things you'd like to see and how to improve our newsletter. Email your suggestions to marketing@cc-aep.com.
Sincerely,
Custom Components Company
"Your Custom Solutions Provider"
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Custom Components Company Launches New E - Commerce Site
Custom Components Company, announces the launch of their new e-commerce site. The new site www.cc-aeponline.com has been completely redesigned and upgraded. We've added more products, more photos, a better shopping cart and loads of other features to enhance the online buying experience. According to Marketing Manager Dave Janosz, "Our new online store was designed to provide several improvements over our old e-commerce site. It's clearer, cleaner and easier to navigate. We have also incorporated several new features to make for a better shopping experience." Some of the new features include:
- A new home page that shows a quick glance of our products
- Larger photos with a zoom capability
- Estimated shipping by zip code
- Shopping cart that displays when adding products
- Simple one page checkout
- Related item displays on each product page
- The ability to attach a drawing
- A category index and a product index
As a special incentive, we are offering 10% off your first online order.
Give it a try at www.cc-aeponline.com
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12 Critical Technology Mistakes Small Businesses Make
Have you ever had that ominous hunch that something bad is going to happen - and then it does? Unfortunately, this gut-wrenching feeling is far-too-familiar for small businesses facing the complexity of information technology.
By its nature, IT is a confusing, expensive and forever-changing animal. Hardware and software sometimes become obsolete within months, let alone a few years. And thanks to budget restraints, many small businesses fall into lethal traps like hiring inexperienced personnel to handle their IT. But it only takes a single mistake to lead to a catastrophic loss of company data, and starting over can be heartbreaking.
Fortunately, it doesn't have to be this way. There are many ways small business owners can learn from the mistakes of others. As a veteran IT professional on the front lines each day, I've listed the top 12 most common errors that small businesses make with IT.
Mistake #1: Using non-functional backup software
Mistake #2: Using mass-market equipment to run business-class tasks
Mistake #3: Overextending the technology lifecycle
Mistake #4: Having a "set it and forget it" mentality
Mistake #5: Buying new software while skipping hardware upgrades
Mistake #6: Going cheap, regardless of the consequences
Click here for more
Source: www.manta.com
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Custom Components Completes Largo Medical Restoration Project
Custom Components Company recently supplied over 4,250 sq. ft. of clear anodized  aluminum sunshades for the Largo Medical Office Building restoration (Largo, FL). The sunshades are 30" in depth with 6" airfoils, and each sunshade was 9.5' in length. Since this was a restoration, the primary challenge was finding a workable and cost effective method to attach the new sunshades to the existing structure. By working closely with the contractor and engineering team, we were able to overcome this challenge. We designed and fabricated over 200 special stanchions and brackets to attach the sunshades to the existing stucco walls. Gobbell Hays Partners, Inc. (Nashville, TN) was the architect on the project and Wallace Associates LLC ( St. Petersburg, FL) was the general contractor.
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New Project Award - Alta Centrum Apartments - San Diego, CA
Custom Components Company announces the award of a new project, Alta Centrum Apartments in San Diego, CA. The new $90 million project is a 379 unit  luxury apartment community consisting of two separate four story apartment buildings over two levels of basement garage with 750 parking spaces which is being developed by Wood Partners LLC. The property is located in the master-planned San Diego Spectrum business and residential site. The new apartment community will be centered around an expansive pool area with cabanas, a spa, barbecue pits, a waterfall and trellises that take advantage of the area's temperate weather. A two-story club house with reclaimed teak flooring will feature a glass wall and an outdoor deck that overlooks the pool scene, in addition to a state-of-the-art fitness center and wireless Internet access. The project architect is Thomas P. Cox Architects, Inc. of Irvine, CA and the general contractor is Cobalt Construction of Simi Valley, CA. The project has an anticipated completion date of September 2012.
Custom Components Company is supplying powder coated aluminum canopies with a custom egg crate infill and tubular aluminum frames.
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The 80/20 Rule - Eat That Frog!
There's an old saying that goes...
"If the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning is eat a live frog, then nothing worse can happen for the rest of the day!"
Your "frog" should be the most difficult item on your things to do list, the one you're most likely to procrastinate on; because if you eat that first, it'll give you energy and momentum for the rest of the day. But if you don't...and let him sit there on the plate and stare at you while you do a hundred unimportant things, it can drain your energy and you won't even know it.
The 80/20 Rule is one of the most helpful of all concepts of time and life management. It is also called the "Pareto Principle" after its founder, the Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto, who first wrote about it in 1895. Pareto noticed that people in his society seemed to divide naturally into what he called the "vital few", the top 20 percent in terms of money and influence, and the "trivial many", the bottom 80 percent.
He later discovered that virtually all economic activity was subject to this principle as well. For example, this principle says that 20 percent of your activities will account for 80 percent of your results, 20 percent of your customers will account for 80 percent of your sales, 20 percent of your products or services will account for 80 percent of your profits, 20 percent of your tasks will account for 80 percent of the value of what you do, and so on. This means that if you have a list of ten items to do, two of those items will turn out to be worth five or ten times or more than the other eight items put together.
Read more
Source: Brian Tracy and www.simpletruths.com
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Somebody Important
A very large old building was being torn down in Chicago, to make room for a new skyscraper.
Due to its proximity to other buildings, it could not be imploded and had to be dismantled floor by floor. While working on the 49th floor, two construction workers found a skeleton in a small closet behind the elevator shaft.
They decided that they should call the police.
When the police arrived, they directed them to the closet and showed them the skeleton fully clothed and standing upright. They said, "This could be Jimmy Hoffa or somebody really important!"
Two days went by and the construction workers couldn't stand it anymore. They had to know who they had found. They called the police and said, "We are the two guys who found the skeleton in the closet and we want to know if it was Jimmy Hoffa or somebody important."
"Well," said the police, "it's not Jimmy Hoffa, but it was somebody important. In fact, he's famous for being undefeated in his field."
"Who was it?" asked the eager construction workers.
"The 1962 National Hide-and-Seek Champion."
Source: www.contractorcity.com |
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Experts Say Nonresidential Construction Will Not Turn Around Until Middle of 2012
The expected recovery for nonresidential construction has been pushed back to the middle of 2012, according to the economists who presented during the recent economic forecast webcast, "Flat, Down or Up? Where is Construction Heading?" hosted by Reed Construction Data. Speakers included Ken Simonson, chief economist of AGC of America in Arlington, Va.; Kermit Baker, chief economist of American Institute of Architects in Washington D.C.; and Bernard Markstein, chief economist of Reed Construction Data.
"Weak gains should improve in GDP, personal income and jobs, said Simonson. Sluggish growth in GDP has kept private sector hiring down, and has put a damper on all kinds of growth. No double-dip recession in my forecast. Construction will depend on a lop-sided activity. On the positive column there's power and energy construction. Manufacturing construction has had a recent upturn and will continue strongly in 2012. Warehousing construction has good prospects and hospital construction has come up after a 3-year slump. Apartments should boom. Federal, state, local cuts will continue. There will be little inflation."
"Total construction spending has been dropping since 2006, Simonson said. In August 2011 it was $799 billion, reflecting a 1 percent growth from August 2010 to August 2011. There's strong rally in multifamily construction with a 1-month change of 1 percent growth and 12-month change of 13 percent growth. Nonresidential construction spending was $553 billion up until August 2011, reflecting a 0-percent net change in the last 12 months," he said.
"Total construction spending is estimated to go up 6 percent to 10 percent in the next 5 years, and private nonresidential spending will go from -2 percent to 2 percent, Simonson said. Materials cost will also go up 3 percent to 8 percent in the next 5 years, labor cost will rise 2 percent to 4 percent and bid prices will rise 2 percent to 5 percent."
"In the nonresidential segment, recovery has been pushed back, said Baker. There's a 9- to 12-month lead in design and turnaround activity. We expected the recovery in the beginning of 2011, but we went through a weak spell, so we're still in the middle of 2012 before we see a full-blown recovery in the nonresidential front." Read more
Source: usgnn |
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Construction Activity Update
The latest federal government figures on construction spending have been released showing September 2011 construction spending estimated at a seasonally adjusted $787.2 billion annual rate, .2% (+ or - 1.8%) above the revised August estimate of $786.0 billion. The September figure is 1.3% (+ or - 1.9%) below the September 2010 estimate of $797.3 billion. During the first 9 months of this year, construction spending amounted to $580.9 billion, 3.5 percent (+ or - 1.3%) below the $602.0 billion for same period in 2010.
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Got A Problem? We've Got A (Custom) Solution
As "Your Custom Solutions Provider", one of our greatest strengths is our ability give our clients an estimate on exactly what they want for their projects. Our  Estimating Department works very closely every day with architects, contractors and glaziers to provide designs and products to meet their application, requirements and design intent. Our core ability includes glass, stainless steel and powder coated aluminum systems.
It all starts when you submit a bid proposal or contact us regarding a project. From the specs and drawings provided, we do a take - off and prepare a concise, all inclusive materials proposal. We have both standard and custom systems to meet a variety of applications. Whatever design is desired, we make sure that it meets all code and minimum engineering specifications. If desired, we offer an engineered product which includes signed and sealed drawings and calculations. At all times throughout the process we stay in close contact with the client to ensure that the design works. We place a heavy emphasis on making sure that the product meets not only the application, but the design intent, as well. Can't seem to make your design work within budget? Through value engineering, we can provide you with various options.
Our estimates are complete materials proposals, are very detailed, and include every piece for your system. We specify all inclusions and exclusions of the product, so there is no question as to what our project package includes. This same process applies to all of our products and systems from railing to interior doors and frames and sun control devices.
So if you have a tough problem, we've got the solution. It's what we do. Contact us at (800) 516-9474 or visit our website at www.cc-aep.com.
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Think Ordinary, Produce Extraordinary - 10 Small Business Marketing Ideas
Marketing plays a fundamental role in measuring the health of your small business. Without it, you'll struggle. But with an effective plan, you can turn ordinary ideas into creative marketing ideas to promote success for your business. There are so many ways to market your business, so I thought I'd share just a handful with you that have helped me succeed. Marketing ideas for small business: Below mentioned are the most effective small business marketing ideas to promote your business on the web.
1. Build A Brand. People want to be able to see that you're building the best brand in your industry. Always speak positively about yourself and your business. Produce great work and leverage the feedback of others to improve your business. Make sure your personal brand is as good as your business brand.
2. Build a Facebook Fan Page. You're connected to hundreds and potentially thousands of people! Leverage those relationships because your friends are always willing to support you with anything that you do. Build a Facebook Fan Page that promotes your business and presents another avenue for your customers to see your business.
3. Grow Your Facebook Fan Page. Building a Facebook Fan Page is different from growing one. You will need a great looking landing page that shows you want fans to join your community.
4. Make Your Mark on Twitter. Create one. You'll start promoting your business even more. This one should be easy because it requires very little prep. With it, you can be connected to thousands of people and businesses.
5. Make a LinkedIn Page. Make one for you and your business. There are hundreds of thousands of professionals utilizing this professional website. Try it out. Read more
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About Custom Components Company
Custom Components Company is the premier manufacturer, fabricator and supplier of architectural engineered products, including interior and exterior railing systems, interior aluminum office fronts, stile and rail doors and sun control devices. For clients interested in custom engineered products, Custom Components' Engineered Services Division offers full design, engineering and fabrication of one-of-a-kind architectural elements. Through a national network of independent architectural representatives and an in-house staff of engineers, Custom Components offers the highest level of technical and product assistance to building and design professionals.
For any project large or small, if we don't already have what you need, we will build it for you and make your vision come alive.
For more information, give us a call or visit our website at www.cc-aep.com.
Custom Components Company "Your Custom Solutions Provider"
13902 Lynmar Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33626
1-800-516-9474
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What Is The Secret Of The World Class?
How can we turn mediocrity into greatness? There are some fundamental  differences between the ever day middle class and those that are truly world class. Many simply toil away every day in accepted mediocrity. Not surprisingly the edge necessary to get to that next level lies in the differences in attitude that is cultivated and applied, on a daily basis. Want to be world class?
Source: simpletruths.com |
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AIA To Launch Database Of Stalled Projects
Following in the well-trod path of Match.com and other online dating services, the American Institute of Architects thinks it has found a way to attract investors to the thousands of industry projects put on hold-send the potential suitors to cyberspace for a database of the good-lookers. That is, the AIA is compiling a list of stalled projects nationwide that "make sense" to move forward but for lack of financing, and a list of the types of projects that financial entities specialize in.
"It's the Match.com for projects," says Clark Manus, AIA president.
Clark believes AIA's initiative will help to shed light on the credit-worthiness of restarting some of the projects that investors have overlooked. As proof, he cites the association's announced plans in June to develop the database.
"That resulted in a number of inquiries from potential investors," he says. "There are pockets of [investors] out there that are specifically looking for projects," and the database will make it easier for them to find what they are looking for. Read more
Source: http://archrecord.construction.com
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Eiffel Tower To Get Glass Floor
Architectural glass will be the centerpiece of a €25 million renovation of the Eiffel
Tower that will be undertaken in 2012-13.
Citing obsolescence and under use, the Eiffel Tower Operating Company (SETE) announced a plan to redevelop the first floor of the iconic tower. The first floor was last renovated 30 years ago. The tower's first floor is 57 meters above ground, and the renovation will feature a glass floor, giving visitors an unimpeded view of the tower's plaza and making the first floor accessible to all. Based on architectural renderings, it looks like the floor will be surrounded by a glass wall so that visitors will be able to look through, but not walk on, the floor.
Click here for more
Source: Ceramic Tech Today
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"Every thought is a seed. If you plant crab apples, don't count on harvesting golden delicious"
- Bill Meyer |
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Trivia Question
What is the oldest manufactured building material still in use?
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Visit Our Blog
Come view our blog. We created it to help our customers and potential customers improve their businesses.
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The "Earthscraper"
A team of Mexican architects have designed a 65-story glass and steel pyramid to sit in the middle of Mexico City's most historic plaza. But, if it ever gets built, you won't see it anywhere on the skyline.
That's because it would be the world's first ever "earthscraper" -- a 300-meter deep office and living space with ambitions to turn the modern high-rise, quite literally, on its head.
"There is very little room for any more buildings in Mexico City, and the law says we cannot go above eight stories, so the only way is down" explains Esteban Suarez, co-founder of BNKR Arquitectura, the firm behind the proposals.
"This would be a practical way of conserving the built environment while creating much-needed new space for commerce and living," he added.
Click here for more images
Source: www.cnn.com |
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You Should Overcommunicate With Your Employees
"You have two ears and one mouth, so you should listen twice as much as you talk." An old and still very true saying. But communicating is different than talking. In your role as a business manager or leader, communicating with people you work with is essential.
Sure, you see them every day, handing out work assignments and doing paperwork. You even ask how their kid's Little League games are going.
But this isn't communicating about the business and their role in its success. Each Monday morning you should have a ten minute meeting with the people you are responsible for. Not formal, not a classroom type presentation; schedule around the coffee pot or out at the cutting table. Start out with three minutes having one person talk about something they did well; a project that came in time and on budget; an installation that went well, or a manufacturing goal that was exceeded. Then take a minute to translate that into how this success can be achieved in another department or by another person.
Read more
Source: Paul Bieber - usgnn
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Connect With Us!
Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter, view our blog on Blogger.com and see our work on the Behance Network.
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Our Corporate Presentation
 Take a look at our corporate presentation. It will give you a detailed understanding of our company, our experience and our capabilities. It also includes an overview of our products and services, our project resume and photos of some of the projects we have worked on. Click here to view the presentation |
New Product Just Added!
Check out our new line of sunshades. Available in clear anodized and powder coated aluminum in three different sizes.
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Small Business Optimism Index Increases Slightly
NFIB's Small Buisness Optimism Index gained 1.3 points in October, nudging the Index up to 90.2. This is up from 88.9 in September and is the second increase in a row after declining for six consecutive months.
"Consumer sentiment remains at very low levels and is reflected in the 26 per cent of small business owners who site 'poor sales' as their biggest problem, " said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg... Read more |
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Custom Components Supplies Railngs For World Architecture Festival Winner
The fourth annual World Architecture Festival (WAF) wrapped up in Barcelona on November 4. More than 1,300 people  attended this year's awards ceremony, which capped the three-day event, and got a peek at the 700-plus international projects entered. Custom Components supplied a unique design base shoe, cladding and structural mounting system for the balcony railings for Beekman Tower, the Structural Design of the Year winner at the World Architectural Festival. Click here to see all the winners |
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A Permanent Home For Peace
Moshe Safdie's United States Institute of Peace has opened on the National Mall's last  buildable lot. Capitalizing on the surroundings, Safdie conceived a building with atria and offices filled with light, thanks to glass curtain walls and a billowing roof made of 1,482 glass panels.
Created by Congress in 1984, the institute is a nonpartisan organization whose mission is to help prevent and resolve international violent conflicts. For years, its roughly 325 employees worked in rented space in a nondescript office building, with no common area where they could host dignitaries and other visitors.
Click to read more and additional images
Source: archrecord.construction.com
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Apple Unveils Glass Cube At NYC 5th Ave. Store
Apple has finally revealed its new Glass Cube at the Apple Store on Fifth Avenue of New York City, and the new design indeed looks different.
The 32 foot glass cube has the number of panes reduced from 90 to 15, and is praised for its seamless architecture that has upgraded the already revolutionary architecture of the tech giant's icon. The glass cube was Apple's late CEO Steve Job's personal project, which he personally designed and funded.
Click here for photos and video
Source: e-glassweekly |
Something's Up! Big News!
Something really big is up at Custom Components Company. Watch for an E-Alert or our December newsletter for details. |
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In Case You Missed
Us...
In case you missed some of the past editions of our monthly newsletter, you can access them by clicking on the link below.
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Our Business Divisions
 RAILING SYSTEMS INTERIOR OFFICE FRONTS  SUN CONTROL DEVICES CUSTOM PRODUCTS |
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