CASE STUDY

How do you move a 400 pound eagle that doesn’t fly?

Project Summary

A client had a large concrete tree statue, with interior steel pole supports, in the middle of corporate headquarter lobby that needed to be dismantled and discarded.  However, a large, 400 lb. bronze eagle perched atop the tree holds special significance for the client and must be relocated to the new headquarters location.   Resicom is entrusted to carefully remove the eagle, deliver it to the new location, and ensure that the vacated lobby is returned to a normal condition after the removal of the focal point statue.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Dismantle and dispose of a 15 ft. decorative, concrete tree so facility is returned to neutral appearance for new tenant.
2. Detach 400 lb. eagle statue from its steel pole support and safely deliver to new location.
3. Once eagle is removed, dismantle and dispose of the 15 ft. steel support beam in the center of the tree.
4. Coordinate project execution with client representative to allow technicians access to vacated space.
5. Provide client with before & after photos of project execution.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Inclement weather prevented Resicom from getting the necessary hoist for the statue down to the loading dock as snow had not been plowed.
   • Resicom arranged with the loading dock manager to use an available fork lift to transport eagle statue.  The client was updated of the situation to provide approval.
2. The client considered the eagle as symbolic to the company’s good luck, not to mention that considerable monetary expense of the statue, therefore extreme care must be taken when handling.
   • To ensure that no mishaps occurred that could possibly break or mar the statue, technicians secured the eagle to the fork lift when moving the statue.
   • Techs only demolished the concrete tree and cut down the steel pole flush to the carpet, after the eagle statue was safely delivered to the new location.
   • All remaining debris was then cleared and disposed off the premises to a pre-arranged dumpster.
3. The deadline to complete the project from point of assessment to bid confirmation to delivery to completion was compressed into only 5 days.

• As soon as scope was received, Resicom immediately dispatched technicians to perform assessment, take the necessary photos to compile a quote and presented a bid within the same day.  Resicom project management stayed in contact with the client so a representative could allow access to facility.
• Resicom had our technician crews on stand-by to be ready for project delivery at a moment’s notice as soon as bid was approved.
• Upon work completion, before and after photos, including photos of statue at new location were immediately sent to client.  Resicom completed the entire project prior to the 5 day deadline.

Summary

Resicom understood that the execution of this project was unique because of the high level of visibility and emotional significance to the client.  This project sustained the attention of numerous decision makers within the client’s organization.   Resicom leverages our business structure to  return facilities to normal.

How do you install ICEE machines in over 100 locations as part of a national restaurant chain rollout?

Project Summary

A corporate restaurant client decided to have ICEE machines installed at their signature restaurant chain at over 100 locations as part of a national rollout.  Reserved space had to be cleared and prepared for the beverage machines prior to installation, and all project execution had to be completed overnight to minimize disruption to staff and diners.  Resicom was contacted to create a customized rollout plan so that every location targeted would have the machines installed prior to the first of the year.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Install new Corian lift countertops and column the support the new unit.
2. Remove or relocate existing soda fountain machines to make room for new units.
3. Silicone countertop and corners to adhere.
4. Install decorative column to hide syrup lines.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Project had to be executed after business hours.
   • Location visits were conducted prior to close of business to assess exact specifications and determine supplies needed unique to site.
   • Since project execution would occur after hours, technicians had to be properly prepared as they would have no access to local suppliers for additional materials.
   • As specifications varied by individual store, technicians relayed information to project managers so that customized plans could be created per location.
2. Installation at over 100 locations had to be completed within a tight deadline.
   • The project manager mapped each location, grouping restaurants by region so that multiple installations could occur each night.
3. Client needs ability to remotely review and audit work for each location.
   • Resicom leveraged available technology to provide real-time updates and detailed photographs as each location was completed.  Technicians sent detailed photos to project manager for client communication.

Summary

Resicom understood that the execution of project was unique because we were simultaneously executing projects at various locations across the country.  Since the scope of work varied by location, sound structure as well as adaptability was key.   The client relied on the receipt of  detailed, real time information from Resicom.  Our ability to offer verified information of the quality execution allowed us to assist in each restaurant’s enhancement with the new equipment.

Lemont, IL

What does it mean that the most dynamic companies are purpose driven, and operate from their “why” rather than their “what”?

Simply stated- whether a company delivers a professional service or manufactures a product, ideally, the cause behind why a company exists in the first place shouldn’t change.  Here’s a hint, it’s more than just building a better mousetrap and generating a profit.  Take Apple for example.  Apple defines their purpose as “Think Differently”.  From that mindset, tangible proof of their cause was realized with the iPod, iPhone and Mac computer;  items which are globally recognized as innovative and pivotal products to our culture.

Resicom understands that we began and will continue to thrive as such a cause-centered company.  Resicom’s inspiration was generated from CEO John Fairclough whose “why” for creating Resicom resulted from his own personal desire to experience normalcy after a difficult childhood.  Beyond his own satisfaction, Fairclough wanted to create a company that invites others to experience this sense of normalcy too.

At Resicom, normalcy is defined as those endeavors, emotions and initiatives that speak to us on a human level- creativity, community, the need to teach and nurture, the drive for efficiencies and improvement, the desire to create structure. The fact that we currently offer brand protection through facility maintenance and repair is simply the by-product of our deeper cause. People with whom this desire to both offer and experience normalcy resonates, gravitate towards working as employees or partnering with Resicom as clients.

So, we fully understand that we approach building our business from a different perspective.  Most sales representatives first tell a prospective client about the “what”; this is what we make and this is what we do.  Our sales and solution team introduce the why of doing business with Resicom and how we help clarify objectives with options, before providing a generic tear sheet of our core competencies.   We offer normalcy back to the busy, sometimes chaotic lives of facility maintenance managers.  This is accomplished when facility maintenance managers are provided verified, real-time information on project status updates, through structured management, and by executing stellar-quality consistency on a nation level.

If these solutions are appealing, and the Resicom approach to business sounds intriguing, we are more than happy to provide tangible projects lists of what we are capable of accomplishing and talk about the rollouts, and renovations, and capital improvements, and painting, and tile work and general carpentry, and …

The Purpose Driven Corporatist “a new breed of employee emerging from within multi-national corporations.  These “hybrid people” are increasingly motivated by creating products that add value both to society and to the bottom line. They persistently champion a vision of change in the face of frequent cynicism and resistance.  They have emerged as a result of a series of shifts in the landscape (e.g. global market failures & increased societal expectations on business).  Many of these people have experienced a shift in their personal motivation as a result of a life changing experience. Others have had an “aha!” moment after visiting a poverty stricken country or war-torn region.  Still others have less dramatic mindset shifts and just want to make a difference after suddenly realizing there is more to life than just making the next dollar/euro/yen.” *

* The Purpose Driven Corporatist

Written by Ryan Jones, Global Brand Manager, Procter & Gamble

Published on September 3rd, 2009in Eco-entrepreneurs

Lemont, IL

Traditionally, many people choose to spend their Valentine’s Day celebration at a favorite restaurant.

This upcoming 2010 Valentine’s weekend, Resicom Solution Team Members are choosing to spend time with favorite restaurants at the annual RFMA (Restaurant Facility Management Association) conference in Dallas.

Much of 2009 has been spent cultivating new partnerships with national restaurant facility management.  Resicom has been actively demonstrating our ability to help busy facility maintenance managers experience normalcy during specialty project rollouts, overall renovations, and of course preventative and on-demand maintenance for their restaurant facilities.  Two particular case studies, Finding New Homes for Nemo and Do You Want The Cherry or Cola-Flavored ICEE?, highlight Resicom’s ability to orchestrate and execute comprehensive restaurant projects.

Already known as the nationwide maintenance company for retailers, Resicom is looking forward to the opportunity to further introduce our disciplined structure and display what makes Resicom unique to restaurant clients.

“We are excited to bring the Resicom approach to the organizations attending RFMA.  Our clients nationwide value our insight and experience, looking to us to offer options to solve their facility maintenance challenges,” says National Business Development Manager Steven Rosendahl.

The Restaurant Facility Management Association, in which Resicom has enjoyed active membership and participation, brings together top restaurants and service providers to network and discuss key trends in the facility maintenance industry.

CASE STUDY

When the very floor becomes a safety concern, how can emergency maintenance rapidly return a facility to normal?

Project Summary

A retailer discovered a high traffic area in the store were the wood floor was buckling prompting immediate on-demand maintenance.  Normalcy at the facility was disrupted because of the possible tripping hazard that now existed.  Resicom was contacted to execute repairs to the flooring.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Arrive within 1 hour of request to assess repair work, prepare scope and take photos.
2. Secure area so it is restricted from all pedestrian traffic, deterring tripping hazards.
3. Remove section of flooring to determine the source of the buckling.
4. Update client as to extent of repairs and replace damaged flooring.

Challenges & Solutions

Completing this project would require immediate action.  The facility could neither operate in a state of having a section of the store blocked off, nor could it allow a potential safety threat to staff and guests.  The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. The damaged area of the floor is a potential tripping hazard to staff and guests.

1. • Upon arrival, area to be repaired is immediately sectioned off with caution tape to deter walking over uneven flooring.
   • Damaged flooring is temporarily secured with nails as a tripping precaution.
   • The crew will systematically work in marked off sections to have the least impact on the customers’ ability to access merchandise and move through the store.

1. Manufacturer information for replacement flooring is not available from client.

1. • Small section of flooring is removed from store and brought to local flooring suppliers to source proper replacement material.
   • Technicians are dispatched to pick up replacement flooring from several local suppliers to ensure that enough quantity is on hand to complete the repairs in one evening.

1. Determining source of buckling needs to occur during normal business hours.

1. • Small section of the flooring is removed to determine cause of buckling, and a temporary piece of wood flooring is installed there is are no open holes or gaps.

1. All repair work must be completed after hours.

1. • Crew returns that evening and completes all replacement to wood flooring prior to reopen of business the next day.

Summary

We understood that the execution of project was unique because we were working during business hours.  Resicom was confident that detailed project management and organized execution would not have adverse effect on the retailer’s daily revenue.  Regardless of working conditions or environment, Resicom is able to coordinate project completion that returns facilities to normal.

Caulk Talk

Caulk is one of those versatile substances that has a myriad of uses in both facility maintenance and general construction.  When sealing joints and seams, it can be difficult knowing which caulk to use given the variety of material available.  The most commonly used types of caulk for facility maintenance, residential and commercial construction are water based acrylic, silicone, and urethane.

Water based acrylic is often selected because of excellent adhesion, flexibility, and the fact this caulk is paintable.   Primarily used for carpentry and interior finishing, it easily fills the gaps between molding and walls, and can be used to fill the seams at the molding joints themselves.  When the caulk is applied to molding that is to be painted, it helps to give the facility an aesthetically appealing and “finished” look.

Water, water everywhere and not a drop that seeps…

Silicone caulk has all the beneficial properties of the water based acrylic, but it is not paintable.  The benefit is that this caulk repels water much more readily.  Often used to protect protect kitchens, bathrooms, and any other interior areas at risk from high levels of moisture and damaging effects of water, this caulk acts as a barrier to water seepage.

In kitchens, caulk is applied where the counter top meets the back-splash, where the back-splash meets the wall, and where the sink meets the counter top.  The same holds true for bathrooms, but expanded uses include the seal around toilets, bathtubs, sinks, and stalls. In these areas, it is possible to create a water tight barrier that is still visually attractive.

Down in the corner

Urethane caulk is commonly used on building exteriors to prevent water from seeping into the joints in concrete, or where pavement meets the edge of the building.  Caulking seams and cracks in concrete is imperative to prevent further separation, which is an eyesore.  The caulk prevents water from entering these gaps, freezing, then expanding which radiates cracks.  Using urethane caulk against the base of a building deters water from being directed towards the foundation and causing problems.  The downside of this type of caulk is that it can take several days to cure completely, so maintenance must be scheduled accordingly.  Anyone using urethane caulk should take precaution when applying as it is extremely difficult to remove from clothing and bare skin.

Seamingly Simple

Caulk is a necessary, versatile product to help maintain a facility.  However, one application of caulk is not a permanent solution.  Over time, depending on the type of caulk, it does need to be reapplied.  Caulk eventually will lose its elasticity, and crack due to the expanding and contracting of the structure where applied.  In high moisture areas, the caulk may show signs of discoloration and mold if not properly dried after prolonged exposure to water.  Re-application of caulk is part of any routine, preventative maintenance.   A small price to pay for having the right product for the right circumstances.

CASE STUDY

Excuse me?  Resicom removes fish tanks?  ::  How can leveraging business structure assist in offbeat projects?

Project Summary

A client’s design team created a comprehensive scope of work to update their current restaurant decor.  A central focus of the rollout outlined the removal of existing salt water fish tanks at multiple location.  Relinquishing the tropical appearance was a dramatic change, and the client was concerned about the impact the renovation would have on its loyal clients.  By removing the tanks and making the necessary repairs to swiftly return the facility to normal, Resicom was able to restore the location to usual operations without disruption.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute the project includes:

1. Have live fish removed and relocated prior to crew’s arrival.
2. Dispose of the old fish tank and palapa.
3. Replace floor tile, stained concrete, damaged dry wall, replace stained chair rail, skip trowel and repaint the walls.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Locations are distributed in multiple locations.
   • Resicom coordinated with District Managers so that project runs could be grouped together by region.
2. Live fish need to be removed and relocated prior to project start.
   • While scheduling project runs, exact start date are coordinated so that the aquarium company can transport live fish before crew arrives onsite.
3. Demolition work can not take place during normal business hours.
   • Resicom schedules after-hours/overnight crews to minimize disruption to staff and guests, while discretely removing fish tanks.
4. The damaged tile needed replacement was discontinued years ago.
   • Project management researches numerous tile vendors to match discontinued product and offer options to client.
   • Product is ordered for delivery before project begins.
5. Area surrounding fish tanks is in various states of disrepair.
   • Stained concrete is replaced.
   • Stained chair rail wood is replaced.
6. The combined required drying time for the concrete, tile, painted walls, stained chair rail is considerable.
   • An installation strategy is developed to accommodate the drying time for thin set, tile grout, skip trowel compound, chair rail stain and varnish and the wall that was painted.
   • A combination of materials with different drying times, is utilized so that technicians could complete the necessary repair tasks in under 2 nights.

Summary

With so many customers sad to see Nemo go, restoring normalcy also meant operating with a certain level of discretion.  Aside form the emotional element, sourcing materials and scheduling within the allotted time added to the complication.  However, because Resicom is able to leverage our business structure, we can successfully manage and execute projects regardless of how unusual specifications may seemingly appear.  Approaching with a team effort of trained technicians and detail-oriented project management, we were able to deliver a turn 2 night project into 1 night- along with the disclaimer “no fish were hurt in the process”.

Lemont, IL

Resicom invites our clients and employees to experience normalcy.  To achieve that purpose, we are always looking to add great people to the team who are able to provide objective clarity and solutions to our clients.

Therefore, we are pleased to announce the addition of Terry Fulmer to our Sales/Solutions Team as part of our national business development.   Terry will be responsible for expanding our national client base.

Terry brings proven sales and client base building experience having worked in the parallel industry of commercial custodial maintenance.  Most recently, Terry enjoyed consulting for a start-up talent agency endeavor assisting with both the overall launch of the business and the organic growth of newly created sales team.

“Resicom’s core values resonate with me personally,” says Terry.  “I look forward to working with the team in helping relieve clients’ points of pain by offering Resicom’s differentiating options.”

“We’re very enthusiastic to have connected with Terry,” says Laurie Ledonne, Team Development Manager.  “Terry is an excellent compliment to not only our sales team, but to our Resicom culture.”

At Resicom, we are committed to delivering world class service. We embrace our role of brand protection through facility maintenance and repair nationwide.  Through innovative technology, customized visibility, accountability without emotion, and disciplined structure -  our clients are able to choose smarter spending options.

Remember Mr. Garrison’s 7th Grade Science Class?

How about having to memorize the Periodical Chart?  Beg your pardon for bringing back those daunting times.  Picture two elements on the chart; Ti and O. Pop quiz- combined they create what?  Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) – which is used in products like sunblock, deodorant, food coloring and paint. The newest applications of the chemical is revolutionizing surface treatments. In the advent of nano technology, TiO2 in its particle form is graduating from junior high school science applications to new century innovation.   From self cleaning surfaces to killing H1N1, titanium dioxide can make it happen.

Let your light..shine on me

The magic behind nano TiO2 is its photocatalytic ability. Photocatalysis is a phenomenon in which a chemical reaction occurs as particles absorb light. When light hits a TiO2 treated surface, it charges the particles and they develop an appetite for electrons. This hunger is as strong awaiting Thanksgiving dinner and the TiO2 particles gobble down electrons.  As organic pollutants collect on the surface, the TIO2 steals their electrons and they begin to decompose in oxidation. This happens in fractions of a second and the pollutants do not have a chance to form a bond with the surface.  When charged TiO2 comes in contact with water vapor, the reaction creates a Hydroxyl Radicle. Hydroxyl Radicles have been proven as a more effective bacteria oxidizer then chlorine, ozone or hydrogen peroxide. While TiO2 reacts best to UV rays, new technologies through Particle Doping get reactions from indoor lighting.

TiO2 has an interesting relationship with light; wait until you hear about how it responds to water.   When TiO2 is charged by UV rays it develops, what chemists call, super-hydrophilicity. As water collects on a treated surface it spreads out in “sheets” on the plane. As a result you should not see a single droplet of water on a properly treated TiO2 surface. This is where the “Self Cleaning” on exterior surfaces concept starts to make sense.  Normally, after a good rainfall, water tends to pool on a surface.  Since the organic pollutants are decomposing and have not bonded, the water grabs a hold of them.  Next, gravity kicks in and pulls all polluted water off the vertical surface.

It’s so easy being green

New TiO2 based products are being rapidly developed.  With its atom morphing abilities, TiO2 is the answer to facility maintenance cost reduction and Green initiatives. There are products that produce the “self cleaning” effect for exterior block, EIFS, and windows. These products reduce or eliminate the frequency of traditional exterior maintenance programs thus reducing cost and carbon footprint. Paint manufactures are developing paints that use TiO2 to eat organic orders. There are products for deodorizing fabrics that are used on curtains, carpets, and furniture. Hospitals are using TiO2 coatings on walls to kill airborne bacteria. There are TiO2 treated HVAC equipment that kill bacteria as air is circulated through the system. A recycling system that uses TiO2 to reduce plastics to a harmless gas has been recently developed.  Believe it or not, in Japan a company is promoting a TiO2 treated mens suit that kills H1N1. Now that’s sanitizing good looks.