Benchmarking scheme launched

A benchmarking scheme aimed specifically at the construction industry and backed by œ100,000 of grant was launched last week by construction minister Tony Baldry.

The long-awaited move by the Department of Environment brings the industry into line with other sectors like steel which have enjoyed DTI benchmarking sponsorship since November last year.

Benchmarking aims to promote the formation of industry clubs which collect and share information on best practice in all areas of the industry concerned. The idea is to work towards establishing and raising standards by measuring quality and efficiency.

Robert FitzHerbert, director of the Building Employers Confederation's consultancy arm, BAS, said: 'We've been expecting this news, and it is welcome, if long overdue. I am a little disappointed, though, that the DoE grants will only cover one third of the costs, as opposed to the 50% funding available from the DTI.'

However, FitzHerbert believes contractors will respond well to the initiative and said the BEC itself was already looking at a potential project connected with energy efficiency.

He added that once a project had been accepted by the DoE, money might be spent on appointing technical or management consultants to take research forward.

'But there are many details we are not yet clear about - such as who exactly would fund our part of the project and how the results would be shared,' said FitzHerbert.

Ian Macpherson of MACE and long standing advocate of benchmarking also welcomed the move. 'We are already benchmarking at MACE,' he said. 'We are looking into best practice in construction management with a range of clients including British Airways and Stanhope, and we have another investigation underway centred on our own company.

'But if there's any money available from the DoE, perhaps I'll give them a ring,' he said.

Benchmarking proposals must be received by the DoE by 16 September 1994.