Constructionline gets upgraded

by Graham Ridout



Constructionline, the Government-backed registration scheme, is upgrading its systems to make it easier for firms to prequalify for public and private sector contracts.

The move follows six months of talks between Capita, which runs the scheme under a franchise from the Department of the Environment Transport and the Regions, and client organisations and registered firms.

Constructionline allows clients to access technical and financial information on contractors and consultants and thereby reduce the need for firms to fill in countless documents when trying to pre-qualify for a tender.

The upgrade, which comes into effect this week, will enable clients to make quicker searches of Constructionline's database.

Another development will allow clients looking to procure construction services to enter more detailed search requirements than before. Clients will be able to search using a selection of criteria such as contract value, certification, and provision of 24-hour call-out services.

Also included is client feedback on the performance of contractors and consultants. This takes the form of key performance indicators (KPIs) covering clients' satisfaction with the end product and service provided by consultants and contractors. Other KPIs cover firms' performances on keeping to the budget set for the contract as well as meeting programme requirements. Accident frequency rates and a firm's defects record will also be monitored.

Firms registering with Constructionline for the first time are promised an easier and quicker assessment. The "new firm indicator" will assess the capabilities of a new business without requesting information such as annual financial reports.

By the end of April, firms will be able to fill in application details via the internet. Firms already registered will be able to check how many times their details have been accessed.