For those of you not familiar with managing projects, there’s a concept called “scope creep”. Typically, a project will identify a goal to accomplish with a defined start and anticipated stop date. Scope creep occurs along the way when additional parties continue to request additional tasks be performed along the journey to completing the final goal. Continue reading
Category Archives: Engineering
Slowing the House Electric Meter (2013-08-06)
In 2012, I lived in a 1600 sq.ft. home. It was a 1-story house that I had renovated in 2006 due to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Over the course of the summer, the highest the electric bill reached was $161.44. The 2012 12- month average for electricity is $96.35 In fairness, it’s worth pointing out that the home had gas service which added an additional $22 (approximately the minimum balance to maintain service) per month. Continue reading
Streamlining the Engineering Process (2013-08-05)
The methodology of engineering consists of the following actions; identify the goals (requirements), identify the restrictions, draft a plan, verify the plan complies with all parties (code, owners, etc.), revise as necessary until all parties accept the plan, and implement the plan. Many engineering firms formalize steps in the project to help reduce costs. Continue reading
Educational Controls of Knowledge (2013-06-24)
Throughout the years, I’ve repeatedly heard the same messages. Knowledge is power. Never stop learning. No one can take your education away from you. And, I’m certain there are a few more. Eventually, The question of “What do you know how to do?” has transformed into “What are you certified to do?” Continue reading
Change Smoke Detector Batteries at a “Convienent” Time (2013-06-05)
During my army days, I was stationed in Alaska. Winters were pretty cold (imagine 57 below), and during trips to the field, shaving with cold water wasn’t an appealing option. The alternative was to bring a battery-powered razor with spare batteries to the field. In the cold mornings, I’d find that my battery-powered razor wouldn’t run at full speed until after “warming up” the batteries with my hands. The lesson learned from this experience is that in cold conditions, battery voltages will drop in cold climates. Continue reading