Report calls for backup

Construction companies need more technical backup and fast turn around times for information from manufacturers according to the 1996 Barbour Report - 'Communicating with Constr-uction Customers'.

The report was assembled from 250 interviews and 5,000 written questionnaires with specifiers, contractors and clients. The report shows that directories and literature held in libraries are the main starting points for product searches. On seven out of ten occasions, specifiers and buyers will then contact the manufacturer direct for more information.

The speed in which that information is given is crucial. Over three-quarters of decision makers require the information they have requested from a manufacturer within 48 hours. Standard specifications are used in two-thirds of occasions when they are specifying and almost half of these include references to products. Eight out of ten specifiers say they would like to see more manufacturers developing recommended specification clauses.

Most aspects of manufacturers' delivery of information are seen as satisfactory, but some areas are identified as needing the greatest improvement. These areas include better technical knowledge from representatives, better maintenance instructions and more information on compliance with CDM.q