communication

Designing a New Paradigm
There was a time not long ago when the mere thought of pool builders and landscape designers getting together on equal footing and having meaningful conversations about backyard design would have met with skepticism:  There is not, it seems, much love lost between the trades.  But times are changing, and if the dialogue begun around a table last August is any indication, there's a tremendous amount to be gained by keeping the communications channels wide open.
Searching for Style
Among the most complicated tasks you'll encounter in designing a watershape is determining your clients' style and how it applies to the project. How important is it to know what style they want?  That's a complicated
Client Collaborations
One of the most critical moments in the life of any watershaper occurs when he or she meets prospective clients face to face for the first time.  This is when jobs are won or lost - and, more significant, the point at which watershaper and clients begin what can become a long and fruitful relationship. I'll state right up front that I do not approach my initial customer meetings with the idea of walking out with a signed contract and a check.  Instead, I go in trying to do what I can to help clients realize their dream of becoming owners of a quality watershape.  Whether I end up
Solid Foundations
When it comes to just about anything that matters in life, whether personal or professional, the difference between success and failure is often your mindset and the attitude you bring to each situation, event or occasion.   That's a huge generalization, but it's something I consider each and every time I prepare myself for something important - such as meeting a prospective pool client face to face for the very first time.  I know at times like this that my performance will be determined by how I feel and that how I feel will directly influence
The Power of the First Person
There's something very special about the people who write for WaterShapes.  If you haven't noticed already, let me point out that this magazine is written by people in the