The integration of stakeholders is key to the success of any project in the built environment, from design co-ordination and efficiencies, to end user satisfaction. The engagement of tenants and supply chain is a requirement of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, which can be delivered using a procurement route such as SCF.

Mandating contractual engagements through a plethora of options such as open book commercial modelling aligned to design development, to early and meaningful tenant engagement through employment and skills plans, will help achieve measurable inputs and outcomes throughout the project development. In addition, overarching framework agreement KPI’s can be used to support applications for funding, evidencing the benefit gained in supply chain engagement and development.

Integrated Supply Chains

We use a number of tools to integrate supply chains throughout the procurement and second stage process, which is supported by our framework managers. A two stage process ensures that key supply chain partners are embedded during design development, either whilst it’s being developed or as advisors when the design is fixed. By doing so, it can lead to efficiencies in design, buildability and identifying alternative methods and materials. It also allows the supply chain to advise on the current market conditions of stock and labour availability, as well as programme input.

The tender period also mandates the use of a shared software, providing access to clients and cost advisors on tender enquiries, tender lists and quotation returns. This is done for both open book and for maximising local supply chain usage, further ensuring the projects benefit the local economy where possible. On average an SCF procured scheme results in 80% spend of project value with SME companies within 30 miles of the site. Furthermore, positive engagement and support of Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprises (VCSE) is supported by SCF for both support services and direct contracting opportunities.