The author discusses the importance of improving financial management to survive in a tighter market. As the market tightens, many contractors find themselves reflecting on the dynamics of the boom. When demand was at its peak, many hired labor at inflated wages just to get bodies. When concrete and steel prices soared, there was no room for negotiation they paid the prices because materials were essential. Subcontractors could command any price, and GC’s paid them. It seemed like it would never end. Growth was swift and the money rolled in, with more jobs, bigger projects and higher bids. Small businesses