With technology invading every part of our lives, including our place of work, we become more dependent on technology and technology is heading towards mobile accessibility. In the construction field we see connectivity through technology, apps, and software as a real plus. We are able to e-mail from job sites pictures, change orders, product descriptions, schedules, and day to day communications. There are so many useful Apps now available for contractors like Evernote, Construction Master Pro, Buildertrend, ihandy Carpenter, and many more task specific apps. All of these apps work well with our cell phones that no one is without anymore. So our job sites are now linked to all of this information. All these apps help us on site but do not replace the Carpenter, Electrician, roofer, supervisor, or the plumber. Building is still, simply put, a trade skill irreplaceable by technology and craftmanship is the cornerstone to our industry. Too many contractors devalue craftmanship for production while adding computer systems and technology to help with production. Think of it this way, every project you construct has the need for a "Craftsmanship" App. If this app was the emphasis for Contractors I believe we would produce a far better product for our customers and I could argue increase your productivity and sales. Recently a study found that construction workers were amoung the "Happiest" at there jobs. I believe this to be true for many reasons, but mainly how rewarding it is to work hard with your own two hands and make something everyday. So spend time training your employees to become Craftsman and the rest of the Apps you use will become more helpful in the hands of a skilled profesional.
I have recently been working on a new deck project in which I am using Trex products. The products have exceeded my expectations in both quality and ease of installation. I am going to specifically write about the rail system today. I started with the online catalog of parts and pieces, and did my takeoff from there. Once the product was ordered and delivered on site, the process has already begun because all the boxes are labeled "step 3 of 5" for example. So organization of the product on site was easy. From there I followed the trex express installation guide, which included a template for mounting the post brackets to the post, see picture to the right. This is great for a couple of reasons. One the template requires no measuring as other brands and systems do. Secondly the template also acts as a third hand holding the brackets in place till you can pre drill and fasten them with screws, very cool! The rest of the installation is truly as simple as following the steps marked on the boxes. Trex also includes a few extra fasteners per bag of hardware so if you drop or lose one you don't have to immediately crawl below the deck to retrieve it. The rails themselves are solid, strong and have a smooth finish. Way to go Trex for designing a better way of doing things! 
If you want to add detail and drama to a room adding boxed beams with crown molding will do the trick. This kitchen had high ceilings but needed some added detail. I split the room into thirds taking a cue from the square shape of the room. After installing the supports to the floor joists above I wrapped them with 1x mdf and routed the bottom. I then installed crown molding inside the squares made by the false beams. All it needs is paint and it will be complete. 
