Spring Planting and Cultivating

February in Chicago, home to CSE's editorial offices, is typically a bleak period. Fortunately, we've experienced some remarkably mild days this winter, which of course, puts one in the mind of spring. On a recent weekend, when local temps reached the mid 50s, I found myself outside making plans for a backyard pond.

The surprisingly pleasant weather also put me in a sunny mood at the office, where the staff and I have been busy making plans to add several new departments to enhance our editorial coverage this year.

For example, new departments on the drawing board include: Integrator's Corner—project breakdowns examining engineering integration and teamwork, or the lack thereof; Engineer's Soap Box—commentary on relevant subjects from voices within the industry; and Firm News—updates on people and firm transactions.

In addition, we're hoping to improve our existing departments: more news— including major show coverage, such as our AHR/ASHRAE recap last issue; more in-depth case studies; and added product profiles within features where appropriate. Some changes have already begun: in this issue we've tweaked our M/E Roundtable, enlisting appropriate personnel from the manufacturing community to bring in further insight and perspective on product developments and trends.

But as any gardener will tell you, spring plantings need the right conditions to bloom. In this case, the economy will be the equivalent of our rain and sun, with a significant impact on what we'll be able to add to the pages of the magazine. That being said, perhaps these new offerings can be presented on a rotating basis. Some, maybe, are more intriguing than others. Perhaps new columns focusing on IT or accounting might be more useful. As always, let me know what you think: jcrockett@cahners.com

Advisor update: Speaking of spring-cleaning duties, I have been contacting our current consulting editors about the new, more active role I hope to engage them in. Early results are most positive. And as I mentioned a few columns back, I'm also hoping to expand the board, including advisors representative of all parts of the country and each of the disciplines we cover. On a related note, much has been happening with our current advisors. John Rattenbury has struck out on his own, although he will still be working with R.G. Vanderweil; Anil Ahuja has joined B+A/CCJM Engineers of Chicago as a senior vice president; and John Hennessy, head of Syska & Hennessy, has checked in to let it be known that the 74-year-old firm and its subsidiaries, including its mission-critical operation Online Environments, will now be known simply as Syska Hennessy Group. "We're living in the decade of the engineer and it was time to herald that change," explains Hennessy, of the need for more results-oriented services.

I concur. Hopefully, CSE can be along for the ride.