As a former retailer — I managed a jewelry store, then opened and managed several bookstores before returning to contracting — I know well what retail remodeling clients worry about: How long will it take? How much will it cost? Will it disrupt my business? These questions are usually more important than aesthetic considerations. The less disruption and down time a remodeling project causes, the happier your client will be. This means distinct rewards for the contractor who can meet these needs — and trouble for those who can't. A well-done job on a prominent retail site can lead to many similar jobs; a botched job that took too long can mean paying liquidated damages and losing other jobs through bad word-ofmouth. Scheduling In
