A discussion about the state of quality found on jobs.

With some of the insurance and mold issues facing the industry threatening to create yet another vehicle for lawsuits to fly in all directions, it might be a good time for us all to remember that pride in our work and integrity of character are more important than ever to bring to bear on the jobs we do.

Insurance companies exist, like any other companies, to make money. With shoddy workmanship resulting in failed construction, it becomes important to revisit how much care goes into the service being performed.

Let's face it: Many aspects of our culture have deteriorated in recent times, most notably, competence. How many times have we all experienced screwed up drive-thru orders? How many times have we seen simple words misspelled on public signs? In some ways, we are more technical than ever, but perhaps less literate. Test score expectations are lowered, not just for students but for teachers in some cases, to ensure that they all pass and life goes on. This kind of thinking can only result in disaster down the road.

One can only speculate how shoddy workmanship finds its way into construction. All the folks I have met while on this magazine seem intelligent, competent and possessing of not only pride but appreciation for what they do. Everyone seems to want to better the construction industry. Somehow, shoddy service and work still exists, and it is these bad apples that ruin the barrel.

I may be a bit starry eyed, but I am one of those who think most people are good. This means that I also think most professionals are good at what they do. Therefore, let us continue to make sure that we-and those we surround ourselves with-continue to maintain a level of competence and quality that will weed out shoddy workmanship and restore faith in true craftsmanship.