NTU has successfully supported Construction SMEs through the CITB funded commission to Improve Performance through Procurement
The Innovation-Driven Procurement (IDP) is a project initiated by Nottingham Trent University (NTU) in collaboration with Morgan Sindall Construction as an industry partner and Maria Coulter of Construction Coach - with funding from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
The IDP project sought to tackle the lagging productivity in the construction industry by using collaborative principles, processes, tools, and support mechanisms to drive innovation and add value for all stakeholders.
This was achieved through joint development of training packages with the supply chain, in-person and virtual training activities and an innovation support package of mentoring, coaching and consultancy to help construction SMEs adopt new processes and tools.
A fundamental aspect of the IDP approach was to avoid a top-down approach to how the supply chain is engaged and trained.
Benefits reported by the 46 supply chain firms included a £790,000+ direct cost saving across the businesses, 38 firms reported an increase in future work opportunities 36 reported proposed time-saving benefits and 30 reported proposed cost-saving benefits from the innovation challenge projects they undertook with coaching and or consultancy funded by the project.
Full details of the Insights and Impacts can be found here, which include example business case studies.
Chalk Build Ltd developed quality control systems, to ensure the company standards are being met, and to protect the client experience. The overarching ambition was to protect Chalk Build’s time and efficiency and reduce losses on projects. Company Director, Mustafa Dervis, said: “we believe that Chalk Build will benefit from the expertise of Cube Construction Consultants, as well as from the implementation of their processes. We are excited to move forward with these new changes and look forward to positive results.”
Envelope Design, a team of architects, designers and project managers who are pioneering a new, integrated design and project management service to build better residential projects, received consultancy support on How to Market their Innovative ‘Design File’ - an interactive digital library for SMEs and homeowners. Director, Tony Richard, said: “I’m not a natural marketing person so it was great to have a marketing expert to support me.”
Darren Eaton, Commercial Director, Morgan Sindall Property Services, said:
“This is a crucial time for the construction industry as well documented skills shortages and volatile prices require innovation to be at the forefront of our thinking. The project was designed to support development of ideas from operatives on site and SME’s to give them the confidence and tools to drive innovation. We hope that by bringing this diverse team together we have added to the collective efforts and success that our industry continually shows in delivering an amazing built environment”
Join the IDP Online Community Hub to access masterclasses delivered by experts on various topics and legacy resources to support business growth and productivity. Sign-up for the IDP Online Community Hub at this link: The IDP Community (mn.co)