{"id":33153,"date":"2025-11-10T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-10T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=33153"},"modified":"2026-01-22T06:45:04","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T11:45:04","slug":"conversations-in-construction-uncertainty-as-the-new-normal-part-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/conversations-in-construction-uncertainty-as-the-new-normal-part-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Conversations in Construction: Uncertainty as the New Normal, Part 2"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--generic\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/category\/construction\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Construction<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tConversations in Construction: Uncertainty as the New Normal, Part 2\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2025-11-10T09:00:00-05:00\">November 10, 2025<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"Conversations in Construction: Uncertainty as the New Normal, Part 2\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/conversations-in-construction-uncertainty-as-the-new-normal-part-2\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/author\/dustinstephens\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Dustin-Stephens-2-350x350.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Dustin-Stephens-2-350x350.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Dustin-Stephens-2.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 40px) 100vw, 40px\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Dustin Stephens<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Welcome to the next installment of our <em>Conversations in Construction<\/em> series, where industry leaders share practical strategies to help firms navigate today\u2019s challenges and build long-term resilience.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In part one of our <em>Uncertainty as the New Normal<\/em> discussion, we explored the unprecedented challenges firms face today \u2014 and why technology is key to overcoming them. If you missed it, be sure to go back and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/conversations-in-construction-uncertainty-as-the-new-normal-part-1\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">read the blog <\/a>and watch the videos on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=BRVvh-whCMk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">today\u2019s construction reality<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=fnNRiu409iQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the technology imperative facing the industry<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The next part of this conversation shifts the focus to finance leaders: how they\u2019re adapting, the role technology plays in driving agility, and the strategies positioning firms for long-term success.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One thing has become clear over the years: finance leaders aren\u2019t just responsible for the numbers anymore. They\u2019re at the center of how firms adapt, grow, and respond to an unpredictable market.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s what we&#8217;ll cover:<\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-moving-from-reactive-to-proactive-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Moving from reactive to proactive &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-forecasting-with-agility\" data-level=\"2\">Forecasting with agility<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-pricing-and-bidding\" data-level=\"2\">Pricing and bidding<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-building-strong-relationships-and-culture\" data-level=\"2\">Building strong relationships and culture<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-the-evolving-role-of-finance-leaders\" data-level=\"2\">The evolving role of finance leaders<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts\" data-level=\"2\">Final thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-moving-from-reactive-to-proactive-nbsp\"><strong>Moving from reactive to proactive<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the past, financial reporting in construction often meant looking backward. Teams pieced together spreadsheets and closed the books long after decisions had already been made in the field.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, technology is shifting that dynamic. With cloud-based systems that connect finance and operations, leaders can see what\u2019s happening in real time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of waiting until the close to learn that margins eroded, firms can now spot issues as they happen and adjust right away. Whether it\u2019s a subcontractor billing ahead of progress or a cost overrun, finance teams can act early to protect profitability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-forecasting-with-agility\"><strong>Forecasting with agility<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Another major shift is happening in forecasting.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Reforecasting used to be a time-consuming, error-prone process, often managed through endless spreadsheets and version-control headaches. Now, integrated systems allow collaborative updates that flow directly into the financial picture.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Having this level of insight helps leaders answer critical questions quickly:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do we need to re-forecast this project?&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Should we adjust resources now before risks escalate?&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>How does this change impact the overall outlook for the project?&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This allows firms to gain clarity not just on individual projects, but on the business as a whole. That kind of visibility is essential for scaling with confidence.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In my recent discussion with John Moran, CFO at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wrnewman.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">W.R. Newman and Associates, Inc<\/a>. and Zachariah Merschdorf, solutions architect at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accordantco.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Accordant<\/a>, they provide additional examples of how businesses can develop and maintain operational agility.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=ZjYcliyfaS0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Watch <em>Conversations in Construction: Operational Agility<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pricing-and-bidding\"><strong>Pricing and bidding<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond forecasting, firms are also rethinking how they price and pursue work in a volatile market.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many contracts are being written with shorter terms and built-in flexibility, giving firms room to adjust when conditions shift. At the same time, AI is transforming the bidding process. By analyzing past estimates and identifying gaps, firms are producing bids that are both faster and more accurate.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What once took weeks can now be turned around in days, a critical advantage when speed and precision often determine who wins the job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-building-strong-relationships-and-culture\"><strong>Building strong relationships and culture<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>But strategy isn\u2019t only about numbers and systems. People and partnerships matter just as much.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Externally, firms that take a long-term approach to client relationships are seeing the greatest impact. Instead of focusing on one-off engagements, they are building trust with clients and gaining opportunities for repeat business. Internally, culture plays a vital role in employee recruitment and retention. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By fostering a close-knit, team-oriented environment, firms are keeping talent engaged in a competitive labor market. When people feel connected to the mission and valued for their contributions, they\u2019re more likely to stay invested in the firm\u2019s long-term success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My discussion with John and Zachariah provided additional insights into how businesses can position themselves for success.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=4nxZy0-9Bxg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Watch <em>Conversations in Construction: Strategic Positioning<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-evolving-role-of-finance-leaders\"><strong>The evolving role of finance leaders<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Finance leaders are not solely overseeing accounting processes. Their role is becoming more strategic \u2014 focused on enabling technology, interpreting data, and guiding their organizations through uncertainty.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By automating manual tasks and integrating core systems, CFOs can achieve more with leaner teams. That doesn\u2019t mean replacing talent; it means giving teams the tools they need to work smarter, focus on analysis, and provide insights that drive decisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The result: finance leaders are moving from producing reports to actively shaping the direction of their firms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts\"><strong>Final thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Uncertainty will always be part of construction. But today\u2019s finance leaders are proving they can stay ahead of it \u2014 moving from reactive reporting to proactive management, forecasting with agility, and redefining their role as strategic partners. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Watch <em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=4nxZy0-9Bxg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Conversations in Construction: Strategic Positioning<\/a><\/em>,<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to our Sage Advice Newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Get our latest business advice delivered directly to your inbox.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-ab515c6e-7e90-4c2f-a67e-113872516e8b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Working from home with tea in hand\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As part of the Conversations in Construction video series, Construction and Real Estate VP Dustin Stephens and industry experts examine some of the unique challenges and ground-breaking innovations in the world of construction.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":81,"featured_media":8994,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sage_video":false,"post_featured_image_hide":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[404],"tags":[192],"business_type":[41],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[50],"persona":[],"imagine_tag":[246],"coauthors":[585],"class_list":["post-33153","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-construction","tag-construction","business_type-growing-business","industry-construction-and-real-estate"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-us","author_name":"Dustin Stephens","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1155402459.jpg","imagine_tags":{"246":"Construction"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice US","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33153","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/81"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33153"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33153\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/8994"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33153"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33153"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33153"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=33153"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=33153"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=33153"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=33153"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=33153"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=33153"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=33153"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}