The efficiency equation

As budgets are squeezed and all room for error eliminated, GEZE UK’s operations director Paul Ryan looks at how contractors can maximise efficiencies on site by choosing the right supplier solution.

As the UK economy inches its way out of recession, the building trade is still reeling from the impact of the last two years. Job losses, mothballed developments and limited access to finance, are taking their toll on contractors and developers. So how can contractors make sure that they are making the best decisions, the smartest choices and picking the most cost effective solution or product?

Well, expertise and experience is essential, but even the most highly qualified professional will struggle to retain the encyclopaedic knowledge required for each detail, let alone keep it up to date. That’s why specialists are essential. In the world of automatic doors it’s vital to choose the most qualified team, the most appropriate product first time and to plan installation carefully, as delays and changes can add weeks to projects, costing time and, more importantly, money.

At GEZE UK, we’ve been tackling this head on to ensure that we work with customers to eliminate the risk of any delays or costly errors with eight dedicated project managers to help and advise customers from order to completion of every project. With our track record of achieving market-leading efficiencies on sites, we believe there are five key criteria every contractor should look for in any supplier.

Accreditation
Ensuring your supplier is qualified to advise, complete and check the final job is essential. All GEZE UK project managers hold CSCS cards, demonstrating they participate in the Construction Skills Certification Scheme, the construction industry’s safety standard and are qualified to the British Standard BS 7036 Safety at powered doors. In addition they are fully trained to CITB (health and safety) and hold the ADSA (Automatic Door Suppliers Association) qualification.

Communication
A quality supplier will make sure that a customer receives a consistent supply of relevant, timely and honest information, keeping the project flowing smoothly. As a lynchpin between contractor, engineers, manufacturers, planners and other specialists on the site, a specialist project manager is able to ensure all parties are kept in the loop with all developments. This means that even as timings change on site, GEZE UK is already adapting to meet the new requirements of the job.

A key part of communication is to provide feedback, advice and to flag up where further efficiencies can be made. There can be significant changes to orders after specification as the theory becomes reality and the issues of the specific site become apparent. With an open, transparent and honest relationship, it’s much easier for suppliers to meet their customer’s changing need and to spot potential problems before they arise. Having one point of contact significantly improves communication.

Attention to detail
A specialist should always have an eye for detail. What accessories will be needed? Will users need a push pad for an automatic door or a security lock? What types of cabling is available and what will be required? What access will the engineer have and what facilities are available on site? Which finish and colour will complement and enhance the surrounding architecture or fixtures and fittings? From installation to ongoing maintenance, it’s essential that the specialist project manager examine every question that could possibly relate to the product in its lifetime. It’s this type of detailed planning that ensures the job goes smoothly and without delays.

On site
A project manager can only find the information they need on site, by seeing the location and context for their product. This on site check immediately highlights any inconsistencies between the specification and the need on the ground. A risk assessment and method statement should also be produced at this stage, ensuring all elements are documented and communicated effectively between supplier and customer.

Flexibility
Flexibility is essential and the planning process should be thorough enough to ensure there is freedom to accommodate any unforeseen changes or unplanned delays. By looking at all aspects of the job at the very start, goods can be ordered in advance, so they are available to use as soon as the customer is ready, in case the installation date is brought forward, maximising efficiency. With local specialists, customers can be sure that a supplier will be on site as soon as they’re needed, and not just when it suits them.

With these five pillars firmly in mind, GEZE UK is setting the pace for suppliers throughout the building industry, not just within the world of doors and windows. It’s this holistic approach that provides our customers with the confidence and peace of mind that the best solution, will be the one they receive, first time.