Smarter construction. It's about easy and cost-effective building through the smart combination of products, systems and processes. It's a balancing act - and it can be achieved without sacrificing aesthetics or sustainability. The Smarter Construction Book gives builders and designers insights into the right approach for the job, and at the same time, questions a few "accepted" myths.

The Smarter Construction Book is the third in a series of books which includes the Smarter Design Book and the Smarter Green Book.

SCYON™ MAN 2008 really was the ultimate building contest. Over three gruelling rounds we not only saw some fantastic workmanship with all seven SCYON™ products, we also saw great teamwork too. But at the end of the hard-working, laugh-filled day (a lot supplied by a bloke called HG Nelson – who on earth let him in?), this was ultimately the search for the smartest, fastest builder of 2008. And we found him …

Scott Spark was this year's SCYON™  Man and with teammates Daryl Rogers and Jai Carey was part of the winning team. They are each independent builders and were sponsored by the Victorian-based Taits Home Timber and Hardware.

When Queensland-based builders Plantation Homes wanted to create a new look, they worked closely with James Hardie to create a product that combined the classic features of traditional design with a strong, contemporary feel. In a production environment, however, the key was achieving this cost competitively.

The result was Scyon™ Stria cladding. While Scyon™ Stria cladding may be the new kid on the block in the building industry, it is already making inroads with consumers as well as being cost effective, efficient construction for Plantation.

As General Manager Paul Roots points out, consumers are quick to recognise the appeal. While the rule of thumb is that 70% of what it sold is based on what consumers see on display, Scyon™ Stria cladding is already breaking that rule. "The results have been fantastic," Roots says. "People are asking specifically for that product on their homes regardless of whether it was displayed … or not." Find out more in this case study.