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Ongoing communication between management level employees about the projects in which they're involved is crucial for any business, but especially so in the construction industry. Not only can managers share ideas and ensure all aspects of projects are being covered, regular communication gives everyone at least some knowledge of what the others are doing in case someone new must take over.

Good record keeping is also a must. Managers should make brief daily notations of their activities, including the progress made, any problems encountered and what needs to happen next. Notes should be kept on any client or vendor contacts covering what was discussed and any follow-up action required. They should also be kept for any confrontations and/or discipline involving employees.

Organization of key data is crucial, as well. Whether it's on a computer or in a file cabinet, data should be maintained in a readily identifiable format to enable others to access it in the event of an employee's absence or departure. Determine the most logical and clear-cut format, then check to be sure managers are using it. At the very least, make sure someone else in the office knows how to find the information in a pinch.

Moving on after a loss is never easy. Here at Cygnus, we continue to struggle to fill the very large shoes Phil left behind. Yet, we keep at it, both because it's necessary and because we know it's what he would have wanted. Phil enjoyed working on Equipment Today and our other construction publications, and was passionate about the equipment industry. We know he would want us to continue to succeed. And I'm pretty certain he's watching over us to make darn sure we do.