Government Business 22.1

TOWN PLANNING

GROUNDSCARE

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 22.1

Business Information for Local and Central Government

EVENT PREVIEW

LOW-CARBON BUILDINGS The latest in low-carbon and sustainable construction will be featured at Ecobuild 2015

FINANCE

PAYROLL: PAYE RTI AUTOMATIC PENALTIES How the newly-introduced PAYE RTI automatic penalty regime affects employers PRINTING

PRESS TO PRINT

test The la gy olo techn 101 p news

Despite many questioning its future, print remains an effective and sustainable communication tool in a digital world

PENSIONS | RISK MANAGEMENT | FLEETS | DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT | ENERGY

COMMENT TOWN PLANNING

GROUNDSCARE

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 22.1

Business Information for Local and Central Government

EVENT PREVIEW

LOW-CARBON BUILDINGS The latest in low-carbon and sustainable construction will be featured at Ecobuild 2015

FINANCE

PAYROLL: PAYE RTI AUTOMATIC PENALTIES How the newly-introduced PAYE RTI automatic penalty regime affects employers PRINTING

PRESS TO PRINT

test The la gy lo techno 01 p1 news

Despite many questioning its future, print remains an effective and sustainable communication tool in a digital world

PENSIONS | RISK MANAGEMENT | FLEETS | DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT | ENERGY

Comment

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Batten down the hatches, it’s election year On or around May the 7th (it looks like) the country goes to the vote again, faced with a choice of Dave (Cameron) or Ed (Miliband). Or even Nige (Farage). Both the BBC and Channel Four can be held accountable for the UKIP leader receiving a head-scratchingly disproportionate amount of publicity recently. It seems he just won’t go away.

Should the Conservatives win, David Cameron has promised, amongst other things, to reinvestigate the ‘snoopers charter’ (officially the Communications Data bill). In the wake of the tragic Charlie Hebdo shootings in Paris, in which 12 journalists/satirists/cartoonists were killed by a pair of Algerian extremists, Cameron told ITV News: “I think we cannot allow modern forms of communication to be exempt from the ability, in extremis, with a warrant signed by the Home Secretary, to be exempt from being listened to. If I am Prime Minister after the next election I will make sure we legislate accordingly.”

The Communications data bill was vetoed back in 2013 by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. What part Clegg will play in the election, other than leader of the increasingly ineffectual Liberal Democrats, is unclear.

As usual, the NHS is being tossed around the political battleground like a rag doll. Big ‘Ed Miliband revealed his intention to ‘weaponise’ the NHS (politically speaking, of course) to the BBC’s Nick Robinson as early as November last year. Over Christmas, figures showed that the NHS has experienced its worst emergency performance in a decade. Almost 21,000 patients waited between four and 12 hours on trolleys. Labour will be using this as leverage.

What all this means for Local Government is that, in 2015, there will be even less time available to address its own issues, namely more cuts to expenditure, pensions, procurement, technology etc.

In other news, Bristol’s year as European Green Capital gets underway with an announcement on the purchase of hybrid buses, to go with it’s existing green transport endeavours, which include a bus powered entirely by human waste.

Danny Wright

P ONLINE P IN PRINT P MOBILE P FACE TO FACE If you would like to receive 6 issues of Government Business magazine for £120 a year, please contact Public Sector Information, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055, Fax: 020 8532 0066, or visit the Government Business website at:

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www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | www.governmenttechnology.co.uk PUBLISHED BY PUBLIC SECTOR INFORMATION LIMITED

226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Danny Wright EDITOR Angela Pisanu PRODUCTION EDITOR Richard Gooding PRODUCTION CONTROL Jacqueline Lawford, Jo Golding WEB PRODUCTION Reiss Malone ADVERTISEMENT SALES Steve Day, Nichola Halle, Michael Marius, Bernie Miller, David Morgan, Mark Ohanaka, Charmain Shrieves, Paul Taylor PUBLISHER Kelly Scott ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich, Charlotte Cassar, Vickie Hopkins REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

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Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

3

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CONTENTS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS 22.1 11

07 GOVERNMENT BUSINESS NEWS

57 ECOBUILD 2015

Higher rate council tax bands preferable to mansion tax, say MPs; CIPFA finds council cut in spending power

Ecobuild 2015 will give you the latest updates on low-carbon and sustainable construction whether you are delivering new housing or tackling the performance of existing building stock

11 URBAN REGENERATION

67 THE FM SHOW

15 FINANCE: PAYROLL

71 THE CLEANING SHOW 2015

How can town-planning and civic design encourage us all to ditch four wheels in favour of feet?

41

Samantha Mann of the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals, discusses the introduction of the PAYE RTI automatic penalty regime and how to avoid fines

21 FINANCE: PENSIONS

The LPGS Advisory Board presents its inaugural report

23 FINANCE: PROCUREMENT 51

Tim Colman of the Federation of Small Businesses provides an insight into future legislative developments concerning ‘quasi-monopoly’ private sector contractor

27 FINANCE: DEBT RECOVERY The skills that an outsourced debt collection agency can bring to the public sector are increasingly valuable

33 RISK MANAGEMENT

There are measures that can be taken that will help to mitigate fraud risks

37 FLEET MANAGEMENT

Ebba Nyberg of the Institute of Advanced Motorists explains how to save fuel by driving both greener and safer

41 TELEMATICS 77

87

In-vehicle telematics technology can give organisations the vital ‘inside’ information they need to streamline fleet operations

45 DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

Removing paperwork speeds up response times to citizens, improves workplace productivity, and benefits the environment

51 GROUNDSCARE

A £1.3m turf advice programme can benefit local government officers and contractors

IWM London

55 ENERGY

Chris Moriarty from the British Institute of Facilities Management explains how to develop a successful energy policy

Government Business

Contents

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Facilities Management 2015 returns to the NEC, Birmingham for its second edition on 24-26 March 2015

The Cleaning Show 2015 is an essential event for anyone responsible for cleaning, maintenance and hygiene

73 MAINTEC 2015

On 24-26 March, the maintenance, plant and asset management industry showcase, Maintec 2015, returns to the NEC

75 HEALTH & SAFETY

The International Institute of Risk and Safety Management will share its expertise at The Health & Safety Event 2015

77 PRINTING

Organisations must better understand print’s effectiveness in communicating information in a multimedia world, argues Jonathan Tame of Two Sides and Print Power

85 STATIONERY

Are quality office products from sustainable sources, at the best price from reliable suppliers sustainable in the long-term?

87 CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Named Best Culture Destination last year, London offers an eclectic mix of conference and event venues to suit all tastes and budgets, writes London & Partners

95 CONFEX

International Confex, taking place on 18-19 February at London’s Olympia, connects event organisers with an exciting line-up of venues, destinations and event support services

101 GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY NEWS

ISS

Turn to UE 13.1 p latest gage 101 for t techno overnment he logy ne ws

One in four councils have no strategic plan to bring further services online; DWP seeks Chief Technology Officer

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

5

COUNCIL TAX

PARKING

Higher rate council tax bands preferable to mansion tax, say MPs

English councils have posted a record surplus from their parking activities, according to the RAC Foundation.

In 2013-14 councils in England generated a combined ‘profit’ of £667 million from their day to day, on and off street parking operations. This is a 12 per cent increase on the 2012-13 amount of £594 million. £296 million (44 per cent) of the overall total was generated by councils in London.

Although not all councils made a large surplus, very few lose money on their parking activities. Just 55 (16 per cent) of the 353 parking authorities in England reported negative numbers.

The figures are calculated by adding up income from parking charges and penalty notices, then deducting running costs.

While some of the increase in surplus is down to rising income, there is also evidence that many councils are cutting operating costs sharply: for England as a whole councils’ operating costs for on-street parking have dropped 10 per cent. Even after allowing for capital charges (interest and depreciation), the combined surplus in 2013-14 was still £549 million. This is a 19 per cent increase on the £460 million figure for 2012-13.

The data, analysed for the RAC Foundation by transport consultant David Leibling, comes from the statutory annual returns that councils make to the Department for Communities and Local Government.

The authority with the largest surplus in 2013-14 was, once again, Westminster with £51 million. The five biggest earners were all London authorities with only Brighton and Hove, and Nottingham breaking into a top ten dominated READ MORE: by councils in tinyurl.com/o34akzn the capital.

The British Property Federation (BPF) has released the results of a poll which reveals that the majority (69 per cent) of MPs believe additional higher-rate council tax bands would be a better way to reform annual property taxes on high-value homes than introducing a mansion tax.

The Liberal Democrats first mooted the idea of the policy in 2012. The poll, commissioned from ComRes, shows that two-fifths (39 per cent) of Labour Party’s MPs favour additional higher-rate council tax bands over a mansion tax, despite the party championing the tax as one of its flagship policies ahead of the General Election. Just over half (56 per cent) thought a mansion tax would be preferable.

The majority (89 per cent) of the Liberal Democrat MPs surveyed also prefer additional council tax bands to a mansion tax, as do 92 per cent Conservative MPs. Asked separately whether they would support a revaluation of all homes to update council tax, 75 per cent of MPs agreed. Support is strongest amongst Labour MPs at 87 per cent, compared to 64 per cent of Conservative MPs. It seems that this is a priority issue for MPs, with the majority (53 per cent) of those who would like to see reform preferring revaluation during the next parliament.

The 24-year-old tax is still calculated on house prices in 1991. Since then, house price inflation has varied significantly, ranging from 160 per cent to over 400 per cent across England’s regions. It has urged policymakers to consider council tax revaluation and the addition of more council tax bands as a fairer and more efficient alternative to the mansion

Councils make record profits from parking, says RAC

tax, which would be unfairly concentrated in London and could act as a deterrent to investment in the UK’s built environment.

The poll was carried out among 150 current MPs during the period 25th November - 19th December 2014, before recent announcements on the policy made by the Scottish Labour Leader, by self-completion postal questionnaire and online survey. The Data was weighted to reflect the exact composition of the House of Commons by party and region.

Commenting on the results, Ian Fletcher, director of policy at the British Property Federation, said: “This poll shows that a full council tax revaluation rightly commands widespread political support, particularly across the Labour party, and that the majority of MPs recognise that basing council tax on 1991 house prices is simply unsustainable.

“The mansion tax is a political gimmick that is more about the narrative of rich vs the rest than anything else. Reforming council tax through a revaluation and raising revenue through adding more council tax bands would restore fairness to the council tax system and be better for the country as a whole.

“It is particularly striking to see the level of support from MPs for reform across the Labour and Liberal parties, and that a number prefer it to a mansion tax. From the results of this poll the mandate for a mansion tax is very weak, even amongst those parties that have pushed it, and the right course of action would be to reform READ MORE: council tinyurl.com/n5aolsn tax.”

GB News

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PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Bristol’s enviro buses to play part in Green Capital plans To coincide with the city’s year as European Green Capital, Bristol is to trial the latest green technology for buses. The hybrid buses will use GPS navigational technology to switch to electric power when they enter low-emission zones. A bus powered by gas produced from human waste is already in operation serving Bristol Airport.

Bristol Mayor George Ferguson said: “We need to exploit these new technologies to help us reach a future where we can all enjoy cleaner air, and a healthier future

where streets are no longer clogged with traffic, where public transport provides an affordable, quality alternative to the car, and it is increasingly attractive to walk and cycle.

Air quality improvements improve health and bring a higher standard of living, which will contribute further to Bristol’s reputation as the most liveable city in the UK.” £1 million funding from the Department for Transport will READ MORE: help finance tinyurl.com/ne5rg5c the trials.

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

7

RECYCLING

CIPFA finds council cut in spending power Councils face a six per cent cut in spending power next year once ring-fenced funds and pooled resources are excluded from the Local Government Finance Settlement, an analysis by CIPFA has found.

Examining the figures published by local government minister Kris Hopkins, who said funding would be cut by an average of 1.8 per cent in 2015/16, the institute has found the impact on council budgets could be more than three times more severe.

CIPFA’s figures, produced in association with Pixel Financial Management, excluded areas of spending that are ring-fenced for specific purposes or are already part of pooled budgets with the NHS, such as the Better Care Fund.

Once these funds are set aside, council spending power is set to fall most in London, where there will be an 8 per cent decline, and by 7.8 per cent in the North East. Councils in the South East will see their spending power eroded by 3.4 per cent, according to CIPFA’s assessment.

CIPFA Chief executive Rob Whiteman said the difference between what was presented by the government and the cash cuts faced by local councils is stark. “It demonstrates why we urgently need transparency about government funding instead of this continued conflation and inflation spending, which hides the true size and scope of the cuts many local authorities face.”

“The figures presented by the government also appear to hide the true impact of cuts upon some local authorities. Once you peer behind the opaque measurement of funding used today, you see that the disparity of impact across the country and between different types of authority is significant and needs to be considered carefully by policymakers.”

Although council spending power per head remains higher in more deprived parts of the country, CIPFA said the gap continues to narrow as funding cuts are falling most heavily upon READ MORE: areas with the tinyurl.com/m85ycvn greatest need.

NEWS IN BRIEF

GB News

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Dawes appointment Melanie Dawes has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary for the Department for Communities and Local Government, following Sir Bob Kerslake’s retirement at the end of February.

Dawes, who is currently the Head of the Economic and Domestic Secretariat in the Cabinet Office, was chosen following an open competition.

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/jw3jbd5

Cash boost for voter registration announced in election run-up Almost £10 million will be given to local authorities and to national activity to boost the number of people registering to vote around the country. This builds on the £4.2 million allocated for the previous financial year and the success of online registration, which has seen over four million people apply to be on the electoral register since it was introduced in June 2014. £6.8 million has been allocated to local authorities so that they can expand their programmes of canvassing and other activities aimed at encouraging people in their areas to register to vote.

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/ot9fkv6

Pickles overrules incinerator

AWARDS

Local Government in the new years honours list Local Authority chief executives and council leaders feature in the 2015 New Year’s Honours list. Edinburgh City Council chief executive Sue Bruce was made a dame for her services to local government, alongside former lord mayor of London, Fiona Woolf.

Cllr Gordon Matheson, leader of Glasgow City Council, was awarded a CBE for his role in the delivery of the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Lord mayor of Liverpool Cllr Erica Kemp, was also among those awarded a CBE. Those awarded an OBE included Cllr Eion Watts of Bolsover District Council, Rebecca Bryant, head of the crime and disorder directorate at Manchester City Council, Archibald Graham, deputy leader of Glasgow City Council, and former

Lambeth councillor, Peter Truesdale.

MBEs were awarded to Cllr Janet Burgess of Islington LBC, Cllr Ronald Edward Ley of Ilfracombe Town Council and Cllr Francis Prendergast, former lord mayor and councillor at Liverpool City Council.

Also awarded an MBE for services to local government was head of pensions at Norfolk County Council, Ms Nicola Mark.

A posthumous MBE was received by Cllr Carole Ellis of Bedford Borough Council.

Communities secretary Eric Pickles said: “It is superb that these individuals have been acknowledged in this way for their extraordinary contribution, impact to public service and dedication READ MORE: to local tinyurl.com/lb5kbx2 communities.”

Communities secretary Eric Pickles has approved plans for an incinerator in Gloucestershire, concluding that less than substantial harm to the settings and significance of two heritage assets is outweighed by ‘substantial’ public benefits.

Gloucestershire County Council refused permission for the energy-from-waste facility for the combustion of non-hazardous waste and the generation of electricity on land at Javelin Park, near Haresfield, Gloucestershire, in April 2013.

Pickles announced that he has decided to allow the appeal and grant planning permission for the facility on a former industrial site off junction 12 of the M5 motorway.

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/nklwhlx

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

9

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The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

Vehicle shown is a 2.0 180PS TDCi with 19́​́Alloy wheels, Panorama roof & Dynamic LED Headlights, in Ruby Red Special metallic paint (all optional at additional cost).

Urban Regeneration

TOWN PLANNING

Written by Jayne Phenton, Living Streets

TIPPING THE BALANCE IN FAVOUR OF PEDESTRIANS

Given that encouraging walking is good for public health, good for the environment and good for local economies, how can town-planning and civic design encourage us all to ditch four wheels in favour of feet? Jayne Phenton from charity Living Streets investigates It’s perhaps not too coincidental that A SPACE FOR BOTH CAR AND PERSON two organisations celebrating significant Modernism followed this lead and looked birthdays this year are the Royal Town for an accommodation for both car Planning Institute (RTPI), marking a century and person. The imprint is still evident since its foundation, against a slightly more in developments such as the Barbican youthful Living Streets, formed 85 years in London and its ambition to elevate ago as the Pedestrians’ Association. pedestrians on pathways above the traffic.

Just as trains transformed the One consequence of the focus on traffic has transportation of people and goods at the been to side-line walking and active travel, end of the 19th century, the rise of the creating corridors for cars rather than streets privately owned motor car impacted for people. In the hierarchy of road-users, at the beginning of the 20th. the pedestrian has long been at the In 1900 there were 8,000 bottom of the pile, but many aking M cars in Britain, rising to planners, developers and n urba nd 261,000 by 1930. local authorities have come a

e f a s The founders of to acknowledge that our s a are e v the Pedestrians’ car‑centric culture has i t c a r att e b

Association were left a legacy of fractured n a ing c h k l responding to the communities and a w

r fo it w d increase in traffic, empty high streets. e v achie easures campaigning for In contrast to Le m safety measures to Corbusier’s order, the simple rastructure New Urbanist protect those on foot movement f n i

d s an n o i and calling for people supports a vernacular t n interve to be at the heart of the form of development design of our urban areas. with environmental scientist In this latter respect, the two and former government scientific organisations have a clear association. advisor, Sir David King, making the case The RTPI was formed to ‘advance the for medieval towns and Brazilian favelas study of town-planning, civic design serving as paradigms of better urban living. and kindred subjects’ and the issue of He argues: “Infrastructure is seen as accommodating motor traffic could not separate units. We must, in the future, have been lost on its early members. see cities as networks of systems.”

In the same year the RTPI was founded, Le Corbusier designed his Plan Voisin.

DOING IT ON FOOT His vision was of spacious parks and The increasing physical and human density promenades ‘remote from the busy hum of our towns and cities will inevitably of the autostrada’, declaring, ‘the street make different demands on their structure as we know it will cease to exist.’ and design. King suggests environmental

sustainability needs will only be met by returning to models of urban development, where services and social infrastructure are within a walkable distance and cites Cambridge as an example of a city where people evidently walk more as a result of changes to the city centre.

At the heart of a sustainable public realm strategy is the importance of seeing our streets as places, not simply corridors for movements. Academics suggest ‘the five minute walk’ rule – being able to meet fundamental needs such living, working and shopping within a five minute walk from home – offers a framework for the design of our communities. Given that a quarter of British households have no access to a car, access to essential services is a vital factor.

Peoples’ decision whether to walk is not influenced by distance alone, but by the quality of their walking experience. Street cleaning has been shown to be a better predictor of overall satisfaction with a council, than all other services put together.

The Department of Communities and Local Government found that people considered street and pavement repairs as the thing that ‘most needs improving’, above crime or health services.

A NICER PLACE TO WALK While changing the hierarchy of our transport modes might demand a wider cultural shift, making our urban areas safe and attractive for walking can often be achieved with simple measures and moderate infrastructure interventions.

Street clutter – superfluous items of street furniture, traffic signs, litter bins, E

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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TOWN PLANNING  guard railing, bollards – is not only often unsightly, but it can also make it difficult for pedestrians to navigate, particularly for people with mobility issues or sight impairment.

A survey carried out by members of Guide Dogs in 2012 found A-boards were the most commonly encountered obstacle on the pavement with almost 40 per cent of high streets scattered with unregulated boards, often duplicating the advertising in shop windows. Licensing can be effective in ensuring A-boards are not an obstruction or potential danger for pedestrians.

The Department of Transport’s Traffic Advisory Leaflet (TAL) issues in January 2013, Reducing sign clutter, gives practical advice.

In the Cut in south London, bins, flower boxes and ash trays are all accommodated onto a single lamp post, so pavements are left clear.

Of course some street furniture is useful or necessary. As well as providing somewhere for people to sit and – hopefully – enjoy a public space, as our population ages, the provision of benches or seating is becoming an essential element of street design. Age UK suggests that ‘age-friendly’ neighbourhoods may be the key factor that enables someone to continue living in their own home, rather than going into residential care, not only better for individuals, but also more cost effective.

Widening the footway and the creation of shared surfaces gives pedestrians greater

priority and can be complemented by traffic management measures. Reducing traffics speeds to 20 mph in the place where we live, work, shop and go to school, that is areas with high numbers of people on foot, reduces the incidence of injury and fatalities and makes our streets feel safer to walk.

CROSSING ROADS Originally designed to guide pedestrians to safe crossing points, badly placed guard rail often interferes with pedestrian desire lines and actually make crossing roads more dangerous by corralling them onto traffic islands in the midst of traffic. Guard railing can also be a signal for drivers to go faster, as the pedestrians are fenced in on the pavement.

As we live increasingly sedentary lives, encouraging people to walk and cycle more is not just an issue for transport and town planners, but also of public health. Guidance issued by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) in 2013 highlighted the need for investment in public realm and to create well sign posted, walkable town and city centres to encourage people to walk for short trips.

A range of improvements in Coventry city centre, including new pedestrian areas, a new civic square, clearer signage and better placement of street furniture, were credited with a 24 per cent rise in footfall in the town centre on Saturdays.

Not only that, but pedestrians are bigger spenders. In London town centres in 2011, walkers spent £147 per month more than those people travelling by car.

So given that encouraging walking is good for public health, good for the environment and good for local economies, how can ‘town-planning and civic design’ encourage us all to ditch four wheels in favour of feet?

Pavements are the one public service that we all use. Local authority budgets continue to be under pressure, but a Freedom of Information request by Guide Dogs found that local councils had spent over £106million in compensation claims over a four year period due to people tripping and falling over on poorly maintained footways.

The economic case for maintenance and investment is quite clear, but involving local people is key to implementing successful projects. Living Streets run Community Street Audits which identify the elements which form barriers to walking and design simple, cost effective solutions. By designing for people, our high streets and town centres are not just for shopping, but function as public spaces offering civic facilities, opportunities for work and leisure, where we can socialise, be active and communities can thrive. L

Urban Regeneration

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FURTHER INFORMATION www.livingstreets.org.uk

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

13

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PAYROLL

The PAYE RTI automatic penalty regime came into force for large employers late last year, but the first penalty notices will only be issued this January. Samantha Mann, senior policy & research officer at the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals, discusses the changes and how to avoid such fines There are many costs that can be budgeted for, penalties however, for non-compliance with HMRC PAYE requirements, should not become a regular budget heading for us.

Setting aside the direct cost, the indirect overhead of staff time in dealing with the fall out of penalties, for example reporting on the reasons, or even worse appealing the

reason and then having to report on those appeals, is not how we would want to spend our time or the time of our employees.

RTI – AUTOMATED PENALTIES No article involving the subject of payroll would be complete without some mention of Real Time Information (RTI) which became

An employer can appeal if they believe that the penalty is not due or that the amount of the penalty is incorrect or where they believe that they had a reasonable excuse for making submissions late

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Written by Samantha Mann, CIPP senior policy & research officer

POSSIBLE IMPACTS TO YOUR PAYROLL BUDGET IN 2015

mandatory for the employer population during the 2013-14 tax year. With the introduction of RTI came the assurance that, following a period of transition, automated penalties would be introduced from 6 April 2014, to cover the event of the employer failing to report all payments to employees on or before their contractual pay date.

The automatic penalty regime was then delayed for six months until October 2014, to allow employers, HMRC and all affected stakeholders more time to resolve any teething issues that they might be experiencing as a result of implementing RTI; which was not unreasonable given that the introduction of RTI had been widely quoted as bringing about one of the single biggest changes to PAYE operations since PAYE was introduced in 1944.

Since then we have received a further announcement from HMRC that they will be phasing the implementation of automatic penalties, giving smaller employers with one to 49 employees a little longer to ensure that their processes are up to date and accurate to enable the timely submission of Full Payment Submissions (FPS) and Employer Payment Summaries (EPS).

This group of employers will benefit from a delay in the penalty regime until 6 March 2015, in the event that they report their payroll information late from this time they may become subject to automatic penalties.

In the meantime employers with 50 or more employees will be subject to the new penalty regime for reporting submissions due from 6 October 2014.

An automatic penalty may also be issued 

Finance

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.1

PAYROLL  where HMRC believes that the employer should have submitted a greater number of FPS, based on previous submission patterns.

The amount of the penalty will be dependent upon the size of the PAYE scheme, increasing in bands of £100 from £100, to £400 per month for employer sizes banded as, 1 to 9, 10 to 49, 50 to 249 and 250 plus.

AUTOMATIC APPEAL PROCESS An employer can appeal if they believe that the penalty is not due or that the amount of the penalty is incorrect or where they believe that they had a reasonable excuse for making submissions late.

In preparation for automatic penalties, HMRC agreed with the software industry that payroll software would include a list of late PAYE reporting reasons to be used from April 2014, to enable the employer to highlight where they may not have achieved ‘on or before’ reporting for a single or group of employees, but with good reason, thus avoiding the issue of an automatic penalty.

There is a list of eight reason codes the majority of which are largely self-explanatory except for the imaginatively entitled code G – ‘Reasonable Excuse’. Software will prompt the employer to enter what they consider to be a reasonable excuse for the submission either being or appearing to be late.

Guidance on the subject of what would constitute reasonable can be found at www.gov.uk/running-payroll/fps-afterpayday and is based on reasons given and accepted for appealing HMRC penalties over the years.

The list given isn’t exhaustive, and the reason must have been considered, i.e. the employer shouldn’t simply tick the box simply to avoid an automatic penalty.

HMRC will monitor the use of reason code G and challenge its use where it believes it has been misused. We would advise caution when leaning towards its regular use and would instead suggest that you adapt your established processes to allow for ‘on or before reporting’ – leaving dates being reported outside of the tax period in which they fall appears to be one of the leading cause of a GNS notice being issued – are your processes evolving to be able to account correctly for this occurrence and thus avoid a penalty?

Reasons or excuses that have been found to be unacceptable in the past include, “I found the HMRC online system too difficult to use” or “I didn’t get a reminder from HMRC.” However, successful reasons for appeal could include; I no longer have any employees; the filing expectation of HMRC is incorrect; ill health or bereavement caused the delay; fire/flood/ natural disaster – and the list goes on.

HMRC continues to stress that it does not want to penalise hard working employers who are trying to get things right.

The first penalty notices can be expected in January 2015 for employers with 50 or more employees and so we wait with interest to see the expanding list of successful penalty reasons, or will it?  FURTHER INFORMATION www.cipp.org.uk

Finance

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

About the Chartered Institute for Payroll and Pensions The CIPP is the Chartered Institute for Payroll and Pensions professionals in the UK. The objectives of the Chartered Institute is to ensure that payroll professionals are of the highest quality, to promote, foster and develop the general advancement of the payroll profession, and to improve the way in which payroll services are delivered.

In addition, the CIPP is the UK’s leading provider of qualifications, training and consultancy for payroll, and has a Pensions Faculty responsible for delivering qualifications and membership services to those responsible for public sector pensions.

Chartered Institute for Payroll and Pensions members are governed by a code of conduct ensuring they remain highly professional, up to date on changes and developments and compliant.

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Counsel for Council Counsel.

www.lexisnexis.co.uk/governmentbusiness

RISK MANAGEMENT

MAKING SOCIAL MEDIA WORK FOR YOU, NOT AGAINST YOU

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

As a provider of legal information services for almost 200 years, LexisNexis understands the importance of complying with the law and helping government bodies discharge their duties legally and effectively.

The Local Government Association recognises the importance of social media to help elected members serve the people who live and work in their area better and is in the process of drawing up guidance for elected members.

Using social media to engage with citizens can provide government with fast and effective ways of responding to issues and concerns via a medium that many citizens feel comfortable with and understand. However, these rewards have to be balanced against the attendant risks such as reputational damage or unauthorised distribution of personal data.

As a provider of legal information services for almost 200 years, LexisNexis understands the importance of complying with the law and helping government bodies discharge their duties legally and effectively.

Social media can generate widespread interest engagement for an organisation.

However, it also has the potential to be detrimental in a number of ways, including by: being used as an online ‘vent’ site for defamatory statements about organisations by disgruntled employees or other critics; providing an additional outlet for widespread disclosure of confidential or commercially sensitive information or personal data, and; inappropriate or indiscriminate use of social media by an organisation diluting rather than strengthening its brand.

EMPLOYMENT LAW ISSUES Organisations should clearly explain to their employees in their social media policies that the organisation may suffer reputational damage as a result of individual staff making disparaging remarks about the organisation or its customers online. Employees should be requested not to represent their personal views as being those of the organisation.

Employees may see social networking sites as an outlet to vent their personal grievances but, due to the public nature of such sites and the wide potential audience that such comments may reach, the damage that can potentially result to the organisation or person that is the subject of such comments can be considerable. Such damage may be exacerbated where controversial comments are ‘Retweeted’, ‘shared’, ‘reposted’ or go viral.

Any social media policy should go on to detail the consequences for the employee of making such statements, eg that this may result in disciplinary action being taken against the employee. However, the ACAS guidance advises that any response by an employer to such comments made ‘on social networking sites should be proportionate to the perceived offence’ and the damage that the employer has actually suffered as a result.

DATA PROTECTION AND CONFIDENTIALITY Organisations should also be prepared for the fact that disgruntled employees (or former employees) or hackers may attempt to use social media sites as a forum for posting commercially sensitive information about them, which may be potentially damaging in terms of generating adverse publicity.

Although in some instances such employees may be protected by whistle-blowing legislation (where disclosure is in the public

interest), this may be done for purely vindictive or other personal motives, so the organisation should consider: having in place a strategy for containing or minimising the potential impact of such incidents; ensuring that all employees are bound by appropriate confidentiality terms and conditions in their employment contracts, which incorporate the organisation’s policies regarding confidential information, privacy and use of social media including a reasonable period post-employment.

Employers themselves also need to be careful that they do not disclose personal data about their employees via social media (or other means), eg regarding salaries, disciplinary proceedings or political or religious

beliefs of employees, in contravention of the Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA 1998).

USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO RESPOND TO BRAND MANAGEMENT CRISES Social media can be used to give an instantaneous response to either a wide readership or specific strategic targets. How this response should be handled, by whom and via which media should form part of an organisation’s overall brand management strategy. Organisations should consider whether legal department sign-off is required.

For instance, depending on the nature and gravity of the crisis, the size of the organisation and the power of its brand, the organisation may choose to respond by: using the same media in which the most detrimental publicity against it has appeared (eg using a quick, punchy yet carefully crafted Tweet, possibly linking to a more detailed blog post or press release); addressing its established online community through the media in which they

are used to receiving branded communications (eg a post on their Facebook page), or; launching an all-out online charm offensive utilising a variety of forms of social media to reach as broad an audience as possible.

However, there may be situations when an organisation takes a view that it is best to say nothing at all, as it may consider the maker of derogatory statements to have little credibility or the issue to be of little interest to most citizens. L FURTHER INFORMATION Please contact Tom Laidlaw at tom_ laidlaw@lexisnexis.co.uk or learn more at www.lexisnexis.co.uk/governmentbusiness

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT PENSION SCHEME

LPGS UPDATES ON PROGRESS MADE SINCE APRIL

The LGPS is the fifth largest pension scheme in the world in terms of assets under management and the largest occupational pension scheme in the UK in terms of scheme membership. April last year saw the final salary scheme replaced with a career average scheme, and in November, the LPGS Advisory Board presented its inaugural report, which aggregates information supplied in the annual reports of the 89 funds which make up the LGPS Last year brought massive change to the pensions sector overall, but especially the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), which was implemented in April.

The LPGS Advisory Board’s most recent report revealed that overall liabilities are estimated at £227bn while overall assets are valued at £180bn, a funding deficit of £47bn. This is up from a deficit of £36.9bn in 2010, the report said, although the overall funding percentage remained steady.

The fund’s chairwoman, Joanne Segars, said: “The board is actively developing proposals to tackle the estimated funding deficit of £47bn to improve the sustainability of the LGPS and its future funding levels.”

During the year, income was £12bn, compared to outgoings of £9bn.

Investments made up more than a quarter of the income, with employer contributions making up 51 per cent and employee contributions totalling 17.6 per cent.

DCLG local government minister Kris Hopkins said: “By bringing together the data from all English and Welsh funds, the Shadow Scheme Advisory Board has helped usher in a new standard of transparency for scheme members, employers and taxpayers alike.

“This will also provide a comprehensive and clear reference document for the scheme as a whole.”

HEALTH INDICATORS Segars revealed that the board was now devising a suite of LGPS health indicators which will allow the scheme to be benchmarked against other large private or public pension schemes.

After the report launch, Kris Hopkins MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, commented: “By bringing together the data from all English and Welsh funds, the Shadow Scheme Advisory Board has helped usher in a new standard of transparency for scheme members, employers and

taxpayers alike. This will also provide a comprehensive and clear reference document for the scheme as a whole.

“As a result, for the very first time, anybody with an interest in the scheme will now have the relevant information necessary to make informed and evidence-based observations on the fund’s performance.

This will help make comparisons with other schemes in the public sector and elsewhere.

“A great deal of work has already been done to ensure the Local Government Pension Scheme represents real value for money. I commend the board for its efforts so far and look forward to working alongside it as we drive forward with these important reforms to ensure the scheme is fair and affordable to taxpayers and public sector workers alike.”

Pensions

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Report highlights The total membership of the LGPS is 4.8m people.

9,340 employers participated in the LGPS across England and Wales.

The average age of an LGPS active member is 47 and average salary is £22k.

The average pensioner is age 67 and average pension is £5,000 per year.

The LGPS had a positive inward cash flow of £12bn that exceeded its current outgoings of £9bn.

Each of the LGPS funds has a statutory governance compliance statement and is governed by a Pensions Committee which have, on average, 10 members.

The LGPS’ total assets under management of £180bn make it one of the largest funded pension schemes in the world.

The average investment return on these assets was +12.5 per cent after fees for 2012/13. 41 per cent of LGPS funds are in pooled investment vehicles and 38 per cent in equities, the remaining 21 per cent being split across other asset classes.

DC is a very different story.

“For the first time, active membership of DC schemes now outstrips the active membership of private sector DB schemes. On average, trust‑based DC schemes who responded to our survey had 15,000 active members, compared to just 4,500 active members in the average DB scheme.

“This shift is not altogether unexpected as most NAPF members have embraced automatic enrolment. It does, however, underline the rapid growth in the number of savers into workplace pensions that automatic enrolment has generated.

We expect to see a further major shift in this area in our 2015 survey results.” L

A LPGS recent y Board r Advisovealed that re re report l liabilities a overal timated at all es h overt t i w n £227b ts valued a asse 80bn £1

NAPF SURVEY In December, The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) launched its 40th Annual Survey, which provides a snapshot of UK workplace pension schemes today and an opportunity to reflect on how this pension landscape has changed since 1975.

Graham Vidler, NAPF Director of External Affairs, commented: “The decline of defined benefit has been well documented as schemes have gradually closed to new members and new contributions from existing members. This year’s survey shows that trend continuing with 39% of DB schemes fully closed compared to 34 per cent last year.

“That said, DB schemes are still very much the dominant investment force in UK workplace pensions, with our survey showing on average £2.3bn of assets in private sector DB pension schemes and £0.25bn in DC pensions schemes in 2014.

But the number of active members in DB and

FURTHER INFORMATION www.lgpsboard.org www.lgps2014.org www.napf.org

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT

BIGGER SLICE FOR SMALLER FIRMS

The government and some local authorities have recognised the value of procuring goods and services from SMEs for many years.

The evidence is compelling and shows the true value of small businesses at the grassroots level. For example, research by the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) into the impact of local authority spending on their economies found that every £1 spent with local SMEs generated an additional 63p of benefit for their economy, compared to just 40p generated by large local firms.

So, doing business with local firms really does pay and it gives our towns and cities much more value. CLES also found that small local firms generated 58 per cent more economic benefit for local economies over two rounds of re‑spending than large local firms did. That said, the benefits are not just economic.

Small firms tend to be more innovative and better able to adapt to client needs, and so can offer very high levels of service. They may not have the economies of scale, but they don’t have such large overheads, and being innovative can deliver lower costs as well as higher quality. It is a common misconception that large firms are always cheaper. This is not necessarily the case; I know a number of authorities who encountered higher costs when dealing with large businesses.

If we opened up the procurement process to many more small firms, you will be surprised at what they can do for you.

SCHEDULE With the public finances still under significant pressure it is unsurprising that the Government is looking to get the most it can from the £230 billion public sector procurement pot. In May 2013 the Prime Minister’s advisor on enterprise and small business, Lord Young of Graffham, published a report, Growing Your Business, which set out proposals to make the public sector market more directly accessible to smaller businesses.

There were three main areas: simplifying prequalification; better transparency, and prompt payment. This built a number of reforms that had already been implemented in central government to make procurement more efficient across Whitehall. One year on

from the consultation on these proposals, the regulatory wheels on a package of reforms are being set in motion but what will this mean for public sector procurement?

Lord Young’s reform programme will be delivered in two tranches. The first will see a consultation on the details of the new public contract regulations, with the intention of bringing measures into force in early 2015. The second will be carried forward through Clauses 33 and 34 of the Small Business and Enterprise and Employment Bill, and subsequent secondary legislation and guidance.

ELIMINATING PRE-QUALIFICATION QUESTIONNAIRES So, what can you expect? Well, taking the regulatory package first, we expect measures to oblige procurers to place procurement opportunities on Contracts Finder and oblige procurers to place details of who has won each contract on Contracts Finder, with an indication of contract value, and whether or not the winner is an SME. The measures should also eliminate pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs) for low value procurements below European Union (EU) threshold but recommend ‘open style’ self certification approach with emphasis on pre market engagement, as well as ban disproportionate requirements on turnover, and financial strength via statutory PQQ guidance.

A simplified standard selection process should also be introduced for high value contracts above EU thresholds, and public procurers should be obliged to use contract clauses to ensure that their fair payment terms (30 days) are passed on by suppliers through their supply chains. Finally, there will be a measure to create a legal duty to report on late payments including interest paid.

SELF CERTIFICATION For below tender threshold contracts the self-certification proposal is an interesting one. Normally pre-qualification asks everyone to tell the procurer whether they meet the standard or not. This proposal effectively inverts the process by requiring the procurer to state what the standards are up front in the contract advertisement. Potential suppliers then look at these and take a value judgement on whether it is worth bidding or not, knowing that they would have to provide evidence that they meet the criteria should they emerge as the winner at the end of the process. This is an elegant solution that should save both procurers and businesses time and effort if properly implemented The second tranche of Lord Young’s procurement reform agenda requires primary legislation and is set out in Clauses 33 and 34 of the Small Business and Enterprise and Employment Bill. Although the Bill is likely to receive royal ascent before the general election, the reality of legislative time tables means that the window for getting the statutory instruments in place before the election is very narrow. If this window is missed then the future of these reforms becomes significantly less clear.

Clause 33 of the Bill gives the Government the ability to implement further measures relating to public procurement in the future. Potential measures could see this power being used to require procuring authorities to run an efficient and timely procurement process and to make available, free of charge, information or documents, or processes necessary for any potential supplier to bid for a contract opportunity, as well as accept electronic invoices. E

Written by Tim Colman, national procurement spokesman, FSB

Back in December, the Public Accounts Committee warned that the Government had become too dependent on a handful of ‘quasi-monopoly’ private sector contractors. Tim Colman of the Federation of Small Businesses provides an insight into future legislative developments and what SMEs want

FAIR PAYMENT TERMS The obligation on public procurers to use contract clauses to ensure that their fair payment terms (30 days) are passed on by suppliers through their supply chains is absolutely vital. Some tier one suppliers have been gratefully accepting prompt payment from public procurers, while simultaneously expecting their own supply chains to wait 60, 90 and even 120 days. This is unfair and Government should be applauded for doing something about it. Some local authorities are already well ahead on this.

Wakefield Council is one of those already using contract clauses to force their tier one suppliers to pass on fair payment terms. They generously permitted the FSB to publish their standard clause for doing this as an illustrative example. This can be found in our 2013 report Local Procurement, Making the most of small business, one year on, which can be found on the FSB’s website.

Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

A simplifi ed standar d s e l ection process s h o be intro uld also high va duced for lue con above E tracts thresho U lds

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Understand, predict and manage application performance with iTrinegy’s new NE-ONE iTrinegy has launched a new generation of affordable and easy-to-use network profiling, pre-deployment testing and post-deployment monitoring solutions specifically designed to enable you to understand, predict and manage application performance across networks.

NE-ONE lets you discover, measure and benchmark how network resources are being utilised by users, applications and servers. Its profiling capability enables you to understand how cyclical and changing user demands impact network capacity and your business NE-ONE lets you predict how new applications will behave before they are deployed in the production environment.

Equally, it can show you how existing applications will fare if they are migrated to new environments such as the Cloud or onto a Mobile network.

NE-0NE enables you to conduct such predeployment testing through its comprehensive, yet easy to set up, network emulation capabilities that recreate the characteristics of any existing or proposed new network. As a result, you can run your applications over the worst possible network conditions, created on demand, and gain a concise understanding of what the end user experience will be prior

ensure good customer or staff experience.

This ability to predict application performance allows you to proactively identify and fix problems early in the project life cycle and mitigate the potential for application failure that could seriously impact user productivity and customer satisfaction.

NE-ONE also helps you to manage and monitor application performance. When things go wrong you will be able to drill down to the root cause, identifying whether it is the network, server, user or application. NE-ONE will determine if the problem is caused by limited bandwidth, latency or packet loss.

Alerts can be sent when things start to slow down and before your users start to complain.

It is also possible to track the quality of service being delivered by your outsource suppliers.

Previously cost-prohibitive to all but major enterprises, these technologies are provided

by NE-ONE in an easy to understand format that can be used by a broader range of IT staff and not just a network specialist. to actual deployment. It also enables a clear understanding of the minimum network conditions you need from your network, datacentre, cloud and mobile suppliers to

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01799 543 345 info@itrinegy.com www.itrinegy.com

How technology enhances the delivery of education The learning experience for many students continues to evolve with the tools that are readily available to them. Many students today are perceived as ‘digital natives’ and view technology, and access to it, as commonplace. However, it is widely believed technology should play a supportive rather than disruptive role for students. If a school does not have a defined and supported strategy for IT implementation, they run the risk of wasting valuable resources, and exposing themselves and students to network abuse.

Twyford School is a boarding and day school for boys and girls aged between 3 years and 13 years, located in Hampshire.

Twyford’s education ethos is driven by a blend of tradition and modernity, and aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge to achieve in the modern world whilst embracing traditional values.

In 2013, Twyford were looking to improve their wireless infrastructure. Having aged over the years, the wireless was underperforming and unreliable. The outdoor coverage was limited and sporadic, and required a high level of maintenance. However, the wireless access was more in demand than ever before. To advise on a technology

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.1

strategy and achieve objectives, Twyford School needed a technology partner to oversee and implement a solution.

OryxAlign was chosen by Twyford School as the technology partner. After conducting a series of physical wireless surveys, OryxAlign concluded the school’s campus required full wireless coverage to support a range of devices, including tablets, laptop computers and mobile. OryxAlign advised a high-performance Meraki solution with a combination of indoor and outdoor dual band 802.11a/b/g/n access points, and a total of 25 access points would be installed.

OryxAlign engineers configured the Meraki infrastructure to provide WPA2 PSK authentication and captive portals using a local credentials database. For specific classrooms, access was set to never go above the 30 authorised connected devices, meaning full control of the device and wireless accessibility. In addition, OryxAlign recognised that multiple SSIDs were required to secure the networks per locations and footfall. Via the cloud Cisco Meraki interface, OryxAlign created multiple SSIDs allowing full visibility for senior staff to track the usage and downloads of each device, allowing the implementation of necessary restrictions to deter abuse of the networks.

By upgrading their wireless infrastructure Twyford Schools have vastly improved their wireless coverage and efficiency, allowing them to implement an enhanced learning experience for students in a safe and secure environment. OryxAlign continue to partner with Twyford Schools to help them achieve their interactive technology vision.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0207 605 7890 www.oryxalign.com

GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT  PUTTING THE NEW MEASURES TO WORK It is too early to tell how these will be interpreted for implementation. It seems likely that duties to focus on procurement in an efficient and timely manner will include measures aimed at making sure that procurement time frames are proportionate to the contract size. It also seems likely that measures will oblige acceptance of e-invoices. Somewhere along the line there will also need to be an attempt to address the potential problems that could arise from different organisations using different e-invoicing software. This is a problem that needs tackling sooner rather than later.

Clause 34 of the Bill puts the Cabinet Office’s Mystery Shopper scheme, which provides a route for suppliers to raise concerns about public procurement practice, on statutory footing by giving the Minister for the Cabinet Office and the Secretary of State the power to investigate the exercise by a contracting authority of relevant functions relating to procurement.

This means that they can investigate prequalification, tendering/bidding and awards as well as the management of a contract. The provisions will empower them to demand documents, and to name and shame where poor performance is found.

With all sides of the political debate

Many public procurers are already making great strides in this area with in excess of 90 per cent of local authorities taking action to assist local SMEs, but there are always opportunities to improve broadly agreed on the merits of opening up public procurement to SMEs and micro firms, it is likely that the provisions of the Bill will be enacted by whichever party or coalition of parties forms the next government. However, what about those of you who are eager to start the process and don’t want to wait for the rules to change?

Well, the FSB’s 2013 procurement report that I mentioned earlier has plenty of best practice guidance. The main advice centres on breaking contracts into smaller lots to create opportunities for small firms, making sure that processes and requirements are proportionate to the value of the contract, and above all, supply chain engagement and capacity building.

So, let the SMEs and micro firms in your area know what you are going to need and they will come up with plenty of innovative ways of giving you what you want. If you are not sure where to begin

Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

to engage with SMEs and micro firms in this way, you need only contact your local FSB representatives. They have a range of ways in which they can help including by making introductions to previous winners of the FSB’s Local Authority Awards’ procurement category in your local area.

Overall, the direction of travel is for more procurement reforms in the short and medium term. I want them all aimed at increasing SME and micro firm participation in delivery of public procurement contracts. Many public procurers are already making great strides in this area with in excess of 90 per cent of local authorities taking action to assist local SMEs, but there are always opportunities to improve and the FSB is always here to help.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.fsb.org.uk

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Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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DEBT RECOVERY

THE CARE ACT 2014

Debt recovery specialists Judge & Priestley look at the challenges faced by local authorities when recovering residential accommodation and homecare charges Recovering residential accommodation and home care charges has always provided a unique debt recovery challenge to local authorities. The landscape will arguably become more difficult and complex from 1 April next year when the Care Act 2014 comes into force.

Judge & Priestley has been working with local authority clients to collect debts since 1990 and the company specialises in all forms of local authority debt recovery.

Judge & Priestley has developed a particular expertise in the recovery of residential and homecare charges and currently assists a number of local authority clients in this area to recover the debts, help set the recovery strategy and provide training to the teams in this complicated area.

POLICIES AND PROCESSES Local authorities are currently working hard on their policies and processes in advance of the change next year. Following the publication of

require careful attention to the processes right from the beginning when care options and finances are being discussed and considered with the individual. Failures in these front end processes will inevitably create challenges, potentially undermine assessments and demands and will delay the recovery of sums outstanding. It was clear from the roundtable discussion that these are very real challenges which are seriously being addressed by both finance and social care teams.

Concern was expressed in the discussion about the repeal of the HASSASSA charging provisions which have underpinned most recovery strategies to date. The loss of this unilateral ability, when charges are not paid, to secure debt and future charges will require careful consideration and planning.

The new regime anticipates that increased use of secured deferred payment agreements (DPAs) will provide a suitable alternative.

However, the discussion revealed concerns that this would not be the case as often non

Whilst the majority of Judge & Priestley’s work focuses on the recovery of charges it is clear that the successful and compliant recovery of debt will require careful attention to the processes right from the beginning when care options and finances are being discussed and considered with the individual the Statutory Guidance on 23 October Judge and Priestley hosted a roundtable discussion for practitioners from a number of London authorities. A lively and informed debate followed to consider how, if at all, recovery strategies would change from 1 April and the degree to which the social care teams would take responsibility in the new regime.

The Statutory Guidance makes it clear that running throughout is the ‘well being’ principle and its impact on an individual’s circumstances. Clear and well drafted policies will be required to balance that principle against the understandable desire from authorities to recover costs when budgets are under so much pressure. In Judge & Priestley’s opinion the new Act requires consideration of wider issues than those currently considered under safeguarding procedures.

Whilst the majority of its work focuses on the recovery of charges it is clear that the successful and compliant recovery of debt will

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payers refuse to engage or delays can occur if there are suspected capacity issues. If a DPA is not voluntarily entered into then a series of County Court claims will be required with probable charging order enforcements.

However, future charges will not be secured.

LAST RESORT The Guidance makes it clear that litigation must be a last resort and that before a claim is issued “all other alternative avenues must be exhausted”. There is no guidance as to what that requires but the use of discretionary DPAs will probably play a part in that discussion.

This requirement further emphasises the need for finance and recovery teams to work closely with social care teams with these debt types.

We were reminded by the Guidance of the recent introduction by the Financial Conduct Authority of its “Treating Customers Fairly“requirements for regulated debt.

The Finance industry considered and embraced

About Judge & Priestley J&P Credit Solutions is the specialist debt recovery division of Judge & Priestley Solicitors, which has considerable expertise in recovering the full range of local authority debts to include, residential and home care charges overpayments of housing benefits, council tax, business rates, and other sundry debts.

J&P provides expert, innovative and flexible solutions to help local authorities improve collections and with fees dependant on successful outcomes clients can add resource and maximise recoveries without adding to overheads.

J&P provides commercial and focused debt recovery processes partnered with expert specialist solicitors allowing the company to deal equally with bulk referrals and individual complex cases.

If you are interested in discussing how J&P can help you maximise your recoveries please contact Andrew Lloyd at alloyd@judgepriestley.co.uk or on 0208 290 7096. the new requirements and set up policies and training for recovery teams and they continue to effectively recover unpaid debts. Judge & Priestley is confident that authorities will do the same and the company will be working with its clients to recover these debt types in an efficient, cost effective and always compliant and understanding manner.  FURTHER INFORMATION If you would like to discuss any issues arising or the debt recovery challenge under the Care Act 2014 please contact Rachel Addai at raddai@judgepriestley.co.uk or on 0208 290 7356.

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in such a way, the results would

down to a poor understanding of the market in which we operate, and the services that we provide.

Another issue has been a failure to recognise how far the collections industry has come in the last 10 years in putting people first and treating customers fairly (TCF).

DEBT COLLECTION

RECOGNISING THE VALUE OF COLLECTIONS

The skills that an outsourced debt collection agency can bring to the public sector are increasingly valuable, says Peter Wallwork, chief executive of the Credit Services Association (CSA) Local Authorities are inevitably compared to their private sector colleagues in various areas of ‘business’ performance, but in one area in particular, the need to do well is not just ‘preferred’ but an absolute ‘must’ – and that is in collecting the cash.

Whilst it would clearly be wrong to tar all local authorities with the same brush – and there are some with excellent results – there is no doubt that the public sector’s performance in recovering sundry debts, including everything from garage rents to library fees, is at best inconsistent, and in

many cases worse than that. A conservative figure puts the amount of money lost by local authorities through mismanagement at something in the order of £1 billion.

Perhaps in a way this is understandable, given the intense media scrutiny that follows any local authority that ‘dares’ to deploy the services of a third party to help them protect the public purse. More likely, however, it is to do with an ethos within a local authority that is far more predicated on supplying a service than raising revenues. If a commercial organisation were to ignore best practice

RESISTANCE TO CHANGE Of course, the ‘traditional’ approach has been for government departments and local authorities to keep the collection of debts ‘in-house’; the thought of employing an external debt collection agency (DCA) to recover council money is anathema to some who still need to be persuaded that the popular portrayal of debt collectors in the media isn’t true. Whilst many councils are still comfortable using bailiffs and the courts, the use of an external DCA is considered by some to be a step too far, with an inherent threat of losing control of the recovery process.

Those local authorities already familiar with outsourcing are perhaps in the ideal position to make the most out of a third party relationship, with a good idea of how success should be measured. But not everyone has the experience of procuring ‘debt collection’, nor understanding how a debt collection agency works, how they should be managed, or how targets should be set. The skills required ‘in-house’ to manage external collections are not something that can be learned overnight, and results – if not carefully managed – can fall short of expectations.

The role of the credit department in keeping the cash flowing is becoming more critical than ever, especially in the context of the ongoing financial ‘squeeze’. Whilst the commercial sector and the public sector are different in many ways, they are similar in the sense that cash is king; without it, they cannot deliver the services on time and on budget promised to their respective ‘customers’.

OVERCOMING DOUBTS Improving cashflow means having a sound credit management strategy; a sound credit management strategy includes an informed policy on collections, and the possibility of engaging with external debt collection agencies. So for those that have yet to be convinced of the benefits of employing an external agency, how do we overcome their concerns? 

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Written by Peter Wallwork, chief executive, CSA

be disastrous. Whilst a private There t company has the opportunity ub o to create more sales d

o n is and therefore generate e h that t tor’s additional revenue to c e s offset any losses, no such c i l pub in e c opportunity exists in the n a m public sector, or at least perfor ng sundry i not on anything like the recover is at best same scale. Collection is not debts sistent given the priority it needs.

Part of the problem is incon

27

As one of the UK’s leading debt collection agencies, Access Credit Management provides UK & International commercial debt recovery, credit management, credit control, credit insurance, business finance and insolvency services to a wide range of organizations, large and small, national and international.

At Access Credit Management we specialize in both UK and International commercial debt recovery and have a proven track record of improving client cash flow by securing payment of outstanding receivables.

In addition, we also take the time to understand your business needs. So, whether you require assistance to develop or revise your company credit policy and procedures, require credit information or need a full or partial outsourced credit control service, we are able to offer a tailored solution that meets with your requirements.

DEBT COLLECTION

The role of the credit department in keeping cash flowing is more critical than ever, especially in light of the ongoing financial squeeze  The fear of losing control appears to be the most frequently quoted concern, alongside the need to protect one’s reputation. More than half of those questioned (55 per cent) in a previous survey conducted by the Credit Services Association (CSA) state the key reason for not employing an external debt collection agency is the fear of losing control when employing a third party, and not having control on what is done and said on their behalf. Many have enjoyed long relationships with their ‘customers’, are familiar with them, and do not want that familiarity to be compromised. They are also familiar with their own processes and procedures, and resent any disruption. Interestingly, membership of the CSA extends to local authority credit teams, and much work is being done to learn from each other in adopting best practice in how customers should be treated.

Cost is also a concern. Senior management employ credit controllers or departments to stop debts occurring in the first place.

To employ an agency therefore, in their minds at least, is doubling up

on costs – creating additional expense. It is in effect paying for the same ‘service’ twice, and would mean admitting that their own collections team has ‘failed’. It seems strange that some appear to be comfortable with the concept of writing off a debt and losing money as a result, but most uncomfortable with the prospect of ‘paying’ to recover it, at a time when every penny counts, perhaps the industry needs to do more to demonstrate how the cost is netted off against the collections and is not an additional expense.

EXPERT HELP All of these concerns can be easily addressed and indeed overcome. Employing a third party to collect debts – and specifically a member of the Credit Services Association – does not mean losing control, or putting ones reputation at stake. Nothing could be further from the truth. Members of the CSA adhere to a strict Code of Practice (the same Code that formed the basis for the Debt Collection Guidance from the OFT and has also been closely scrutinised by 

Finance

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Council writes off nearly £200K of debt Nearly £200,000 worth of bad debt has been written off by Herefordshire Council, the Hereford Times has reported.

Between April and October the council wrote off 21 debts collectively worth £179,000. The council’s own collective capital and short term loan debt has crossed the £200 million mark.

Within the next four years, the capital debt alone could top £200 million. Thirteen debt write-offs were related to business rates collectively worth £104,000 and leaving the council liable for a percentage of the value.

Two cases were benefit overpayments worth £9,000.

Over the period there was one case exceeding £20,000. That was the write off of £40,237 relating to commercial rent with the tenant going into receivership and no monies available for distribution to creditors.

Debt hotspots report reveals rising council tax arrears Council tax arrears are now the most common form of debt for citizens, according to a report.

They now account for around 12 per cent of debt problems reported to charity Citizens Advice, overtaking credit cards and unsecured loans during the last year.

The findings emerged in a report from the charity listing the top 20 ‘debt hotspots’ in England and Wales. Denbighshire, Merthyr Tydfil, Stoke-on-Trent and South Tyneside make up the top four with at least 0.5 per cent of the population seeking help from Citizens Advice for debt problems.

Gillian Guy, chief executive of Citizens Advice said: ‘Times have changed, and so have people’s debt problems. Consumer debts like credit cards and personal loans have traditionally been the most common debt problems that come through our doors. But now priority debts such as council tax arrears are gradually building up as people struggle to cover everyday costs.”

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.1

1 Studio Court, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK2 2DG T: 01908 374374 E: ctenquiries@constantandco.com Head Office 66 Harpur Street, Bedford, MK40 2RA T: 01234 340091 E: admin@constantandco.com

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DEBT COLLECTION

 the new Financial Conduct Authority – the FCA), and for the most part appoint a board director responsible for compliance.

There are specific procedures and rules that these members follow with teams dedicated to a specific task – and that is recovering debt.

The CSA is the only National Association in the UK for companies active in the debt collection and purchase industry. The Association, which has a history dating back to 1902, has in excess of 400 members who represent 90 per cent of the industry, and employ 15,000 people. At any one time its members hold over £60 billion for collection, returning nearly £3 billion in collections to the UK economy per annum.

A PROFESSIONAL APPROACH CSA members are professionals. Their business, their training, and their motivation is all about achieving results for their customers.

Indeed as a trade association, the CSA has a clear professional pathway for individuals working in the collections industry and a dedicated learning and development team that has devised Diploma-level qualifications that ensure the highest levels of professionalism and best-practice. Our members pride themselves on their ethics, adhering to the very latest TCF policies, and indeed promote ‘compliance’ as a competitive advantage. Agencies deploy a series of skills in consultation with their client, rather than

‘one size fits all’. Their methodology is one of engaging the debtor, not confronting them. It is this collaborative approach that reaps better results, and maintains the creditor/debtor relationship for the future.

Agencies are only paid on results. That means that they have to be efficient, but often the very fact that a debt had been referred to an external agency makes it more ‘serious’ in the eyes of the debtor who

Finance

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performance – and often their reward – is based on achieving set targets. Far from indicating ‘failure’, the market for debt collection continues to grow because organisations are increasingly recognising how agencies should be utilised as an integral part of a credit management strategy.

Local authorities need to think and act differently in how they can keep the cash flowing, and they could do worse than

Local authorities need to think and act differently in how they can keep the cash flowing, and they could do worse than considering the bigger picture: recovering what’s owed, means that the level of Council Tax does not have to increase has previously avoided or ignored several attempts by the local authority to collect what is rightfully theirs to collect. Whilst certain legal firms may operate a ‘no-win no-fee’ service in specific cases, in the debt collection industry, no-win no-fee is pretty much accepted as the industry standard.

Clients, therefore, have quite literally nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Credit teams are increasingly measured on reducing the volumes of debt and increasing the amounts collected and their

considering the bigger picture: recovering what’s owed, means that the level of Council Tax does not have to increase. Finance Directors can exercise a Treasury function on money that is collected which in turn generates additional revenues that can be ploughed back into delivering more services.

It may sound fanciful, but the reality is that it is actually within their grasp.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.csa-uk.com

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Don’t waste your money on risk management.

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FRAUD PREVENTION

Five key essentials of good corporate governance to manage the risk of fraud: Embedded strategic approach to risk management Culture of zero tolerance

Written by Tracy Barnett, director of Alarm

Managing fraud risk

Risk Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Sound counter fraud and corruption framework Strong systems of internal control Close working relationships with partners in relation to counter fraud work

PROTECTING THE PUBLIC PURSE

It will never be possible to eliminate fraud completely, but there are measures that can be taken that will help to mitigate the risks, writes Tracy Barnett, director of Alarm, the public risk management association Public bodies have a duty to protect the public purse. The public sector has never before been more at risk of fraudulent activity than it is now. With the extended era of austerity that the UK has faced, and will continue to face for many years to come, securing funding for public services is becoming more and more difficult and every pound lost though fraud reduces the ability to provide valuable public services.

In 2013, the National Fraud Authority estimated that central government might be losing £2.6 billion and local government £2.1 billion to fraud, with a further £14.1 billion lost to tax fraud and vehicle excise fraud, and £1.9 billion to benefit and tax credit fraud, but no one knows for sure the true value of the losses and it is generally accepted that this is probably an underestimate.

The Audit Commission reported in its annual Protecting the Public Purse Report 2014 that “Fraud valued at £188 million was

Assessing potential fraud risks: Identifying the key risk areas Considering the impact of potential frauds Assessing the scale/likelihood of the risk of fraud occurring Identifying/evaluating the adequacy of existing controls Implementation of revised controls/ action planning for the future

detected by England’s councils in 2013/14, a ten-fold increase since 1990.”

investigations increased by 15 per cent in 2013/14 to 3,030. These figures are exclusive of housing association properties which make A SIGNIFICANT PROBLEM up the bulk of social housing.

Every area of public expenditure Detected cases of fraud in a e r a is at risk of fraud. In 2013/14 maintained schools is worth

y r Eve nearly 50,000 cases of £2.3 million. Most of these c i l b of pu is at non-benefit fraud was frauds were committed ure t i identified within local by staff, suggesting d n e / p 13 ex 0 2 government, worth that some schools may n I . sk £16.9 million. This fraud ri ,000 cases of have weak governance 0 included areas such as arrangements that 2014, 5 efit fraud was mean they are more Right to Buy fraud cases n l worth £12.3 million. non‑be ed within loca vulnerable to fraud.

There has been a rise in is no data available identifi nment worth forThere this type of fraud following non-maintained gover 6.9m the large increase of the schools or academies who £1 discount threshold. Social care have greater independence so fraud has more than trebled since are likely to have increased risks 2009/10 to 438, totalling £6.2 million of fraud. in 2013/14. Insurance fraud against local What’s more, business rates fraud is worth government is worth £4.8 million. Recovery £1.2 million and procurement fraud is of social housing as a result of tenancy fraud worth nearly £4.5 million. E

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.1

FRAUD PREVENTION  ADDRESSING THE RISK OF FRAUD With a focus on the need to ensure every penny is used to provide public services more public organisations are recognising the need to ensure their systems and controls adequately address their risk of fraud as well as putting in place measures to prevent, detect and investigate frauds. Historically, the detection of a fraud was seen as a sign of weak controls in an organisation however, it goes without saying ‘seek and ye shall find’. Increasing the level of detection should be seen as a positive sign that public bodies are taking the risk of fraud seriously and putting in place strong systems of internal control as well as sound counter fraud and corruption frameworks to address the risks.

Alarm, The Public Risk Management Association, recognised there was a need to provide its members with guidance to tackle this risk which could impact heavily on a public sector organisations’ strategic and operational planning arrangements, as well as on its performance. In May 2014, Alarm produced ‘Managing the Risk of Fraud: The Alarm Standard for Risk Advisors’ to help risk advisors, working in conjunction with business managers, to address their risk of fraud.

BEST PRACTICE GUIDANCE The Alarm Standard provides best practice guidance that enables organisations to test they have in place adequate levels of compliance

To support the fight against fraud in the public sector it is essential that senior executives and elected representatives actively reinforce the message that fraud against the public sector cannot and will not be tolerated to manage their risk of fraud. It will never be possible to eliminate the risk of fraud completely but there are measures that can be taken that will help to mitigate the risks. In order to effectively manage the risk of fraud it is essential that public sector organisations place this at the top of their corporate governance arrangements. A corporate approach helps public bodies to protect scarce resources.

There are five key essentials of good corporate governance that should be in place to manage the risk of fraud. The first is to embed a strategic approach to risk management and then promote a culture of zero tolerance. There must be a sound counter fraud and corruption framework, strong systems of internal control, as well as close working relationships with partners in relation to counter fraud work.

EFFECTIVE CORPORATE RISK MANAGEMENT In addition to identifying the aspects of

Risk Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

good corporate governance the guidance reinforces the principles of effective corporate risk management. It highlights that a review of potential fraud risks should be undertaken in a formal manner using the same principles that are adopted for other business risks.

This includes identifying the key risk areas; considering the impact of potential frauds; and assessing the scale/likelihood of the risk of fraud occurring. It also recommends identifying/ evaluating the adequacy of existing controls and implementing revised controls or action planning for the future.

Fighting fraud is the responsibility of everyone.

To support the fight against fraud in the public sector it is essential that senior executives and elected representatives actively reinforce the message that fraud against the public sector cannot and will not be tolerated. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.alarm-uk.org

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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FLEET MANAGEMENT

MAKING THE CASE FOR EFFICIENT MOTORING SKILLS

The answer to costly fuel bills is not just in fuel-efficient cars – it’s in the person behind the wheel. Ebba Nyberg of the Institute of Advanced Motorists explains how to drive both greener and safer Things change. The pace of change on our roads is continuous. As a professional driver it is important to know and understand these changes. We all need refreshing on the knowledge and skills we already have.

Businesses consider value for money and miles per gallon when they buy new company vehicles, but the answer to high fuel costs is not just in fuel-efficient cars; it’s in the person behind the wheel. It’s time to make sure that fleets are being driven correctly.

Drivers who spend long hours driving to meetings with clients and colleagues get fined and crash more often than other drivers due to a riskier driving style.

Too often, large fleets suffer significant losses due to poorly trained drivers. Yet sending out safer, more confident and fuel‑efficient drivers, is well worth the investment.

Some firms still believe they are covered for accidents as long as their drivers hold a current driving licence and their vehicles have insurance and MOT – a blinkered way of looking at road safety that doesn’t comply with the law. The risks must be managed.

RISK MANAGEMENT One solution to this is Driver Risk Management (DRM). DRM saves money because the costs of road accidents are nearly always higher than the costs of repairs and insurance claims. These costs are higher for smaller businesses and the self-employed, so whatever the size of the business, it makes financial sense to invest in a DRM strategy.

Simon Elstow, Training Manager at the IAM said: “Fortunately, many businesses now see the link between improving the driving skills of their employees and squeezing every drop of fuel and safety from their fleet.

“Skilled and trained drivers have a better attitude and look after their vehicles more carefully. With less wear and tear to the engine, tyres and brakes, the vehicles are worth more when they are sold on.”

An online driver risk assessment is the first step in assessing driving skills. It helps profile individual risks and proposes ways to tackle them. Each driver gets a personal skills programme that gives an audit trail and

Eco Driving

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

starting and stopping – is one way to save money. You’ll use the brakes less often, making for a safer drive. It’s a tip that works for any driver in any vehicle.

Choosing the right speed – of course within the limits – improves fuel efficiency and road safety. For example, on a straight road where the national speed limit is in force, 50mph is the optimum speed for fuel efficiency.

Improving driver observation, anticipation and awareness increases safety and again reduces the cost for fuel and maintenance.

It helps keep the car on the move – more fuel is used starting off and braking.

Aim to get your staff into the habit of accelerating gradually to the most fuel‑efficient speed while looking ahead.

There’s no point accelerating into a red light or traffic queue. Anticipating junctions and lights will also reduce the amount of time they stopping with the engine still running.

Most courses will get drivers into the habit of checking their vehicles frequently. They’ll learn the fuel-efficient importance of keeping oil levels and tyre pressure right – properly inflated tyres alone improve fuel efficiency by between five and ten per cent. Drivers will also learn to check brakes, lights and safety equipment and they’ll spot damage early.

DRIVING EFFICIENTLY To drive efficiently means to avoid the spikes in performance ing that telematics is designed Improv to record such as harsh r e v dri braking, steering, , n o i t accelerating, idling and, observaon and most importantly, i t a p i antic s increases inappropriate speed es n meets health and which can normally be e s r e a c w u a d e r d safety legislation. mapped to show where it’s n a safety for fuel and unnecessary or excessive.

Some drivers may t not need coaching In general, efficient the cos ntenance while they drive and driving means knowledge ai m may be more suited to of all the vehicles systems e.g. online e-learning courses. retarders on trucks/busses to make These are tailored to individuals best use of the vehicle. On all vehicles, and are a refresher for understanding the drivers should aim to keep moving; change good road craft and driving regulations. gear early; choose best cruising gear; lift For drivers who are judged as high-risk, off accelerator early; switch off when safe; hands-on training in real-life situations and avoid any unnecessary acceleration.

– with a qualified trainer – is best.

The mapping device measuring driver Make sure your trainers are approved inputs is called telematics, and the device by the Driving Standards Authority and is set to ‘normalised’ in order to look for listed on their fleet trainer register. ‘spikes’. Eco driving is all about ironing Elstow said: “The economic case and out spikes in the driving performance. The safety needs for driver training are proven Cambus (part of the electronic brain of the but there are other less measurable engine) already records a great deal of input benefits like having a workforce of happier, information. The telematics system adds more alert and confident drivers who feel mapping, speed and body roll (activation the company is investing in them.” of ROP and ESP systems etcetera).

Generally when talking about telematics GREEN DRIVING: THE METHOD driving efficiently with fleet drivers, there are Hurtling down the M1 and stopping and a few questions you might use to explore this. starting abruptly puts a lot of stress on the Do you know what your telematics system is engine and tyres, and it also burns a lot measuring (and how accurately), and do you of fuel. Going easy on the accelerator to know how to use all the systems on your new maintain a constant speed – with gentler vehicle to their optimum? E

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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FLEET MANAGEMENT  Find out how your vehicle lets you know when you are driving efficiently, and what feedback your organisation gives. Ask yourself: what is your organisation’s policy regarding idling, and do you know how much idling costs your organisation per year? Do you know what the added effect to the environment idling makes (tonnes of CO2 per annum?

Finally, do you know what your telematics system is measuring (and how accurately)?

If an organisation fits telematics it needs to match the general culture, for instance if it normally tells drivers about new initiatives it’s best to do the same in this situation. Generally telematics are very good at comparing one driver to another to encourage “best practice” modelling but often only where the organisation compares like routes/rosters and provides on road training where appropriate.

The drawback about telematics is that they are obviously not recording the context of the spike (which is why in cab cameras are increasingly combined). Therefore, it’s important to take the time to ask some questions to understand why a particular driver appears to be driving inefficiently/unsafely.

Some reason for spikes might be outside of the driver’s control. If a driver takes a new route, the trailer or rig is configured wrongly, or he or she has a new vehicle, this can all contribute to telematics showing spikes.

Therefore, most often there is a need to

Eco driving benefits look closer to what is causing the spikes.

Elstow said: “Occasionally, we have worked with organisations who had installed telematics and found that their staff were inadequately informed about the scope and accuracy of the system (sometimes deliberately). This results in confusion.”

Reduces greenhouse gas emissions (CO2)

IDLING The policy on vehicle idling is different for different organisations. Idling happens when the vehicle is stopped and the engine is still running. Generally, it’s recommended to switch off the engine if you don’t need to drive off within the next one minute given that it is safe to do so. That’s usually the case in queues in heavy traffic, when waiting to tip, when stopping to ask directions, when stopping in heavily pedestrianised areas to show intent to give up priority and in housing areas (especially at night or early morning).

However, there are situations when it’s actually better to avoid switching off. For instance, in queues of light traffic where you need to take advantage of gaps or where on board ancillary equipment is vulnerable to prolonged switch off. For the latter, you should avoid housing estates to park up near. L

Requires fewer natural resources: oils, metals, gases (air con) etc.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.iam.org.uk www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

Enhances company image (CSR: Corporate Social Responsibility)

Eco Driving

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Reduces local air pollutants (asthma/ allergies & damage to buildings) Reduces noise Creates less waste/recycle issues (rubber is a major problem to recycle)

Benefits the logistics chain (less need to ship/import resources, oil etc.)

Releases resources for other projects Allows for smoother traffic flow, resulting in less incidents Reduces incidents (less crashes and other types of incident) Saves fuel (capital available for other projects) Results in fewer insurance claims Reduces insurance premiums Reduces of corporate liability Lowers repair & maintenance costs

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

39

Introducing the IT1000. The most advanced 3G Vehicle Camera in the world.

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• Detect unsafe driving and driver training needs – Alter driver behaviour.

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FLEET MANAGEMENT

Telematics

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

AN INSIGHT INTO HOW YOUR FLEET IS RUN

In-vehicle telematics technology can give organisations the vital ‘inside’ information they need to streamline fleet operations, explains Geoffrey Bray, chairman of the Fleet Industry Advisory Group explores how Vehicle telematics has its roots in the HGV sector but, in more recent years, has become a popular tool for LCV fleets and today the technology is increasingly finding its way into company cars.

Telematics systems monitor the location of vehicles and the way they are being driven to deliver a raft of essential operational real-time information to fleet decision‑makers that enables them to take action to improve business efficiency, cut costs and ensure legislative compliance.

Simply retro-fitting telemetry devices to vehicles and having access to the torrent of data that flows will not solve fleet problems and potentially could cause more pain.

Indeed information overload is a major concern so fleet decision-makers will have to decide from the information and data streams accessible what they require to effectively and efficiently manage the fleet operation and which channels remain ‘asleep’ or are perhaps switched on at a later date.

THE BENEFITS Telematics users suggest the benefits of the technology include saving money on fuel, improving driver behaviour, and enhancing productivity due to improved journey scheduling. They also say mileage record keeping is improved and savings are made on insurance premium as drivers adopt a more sympathetic style, resulting in fewer

accidents and reduced maintenance costs. telematics to its 1,400-strong fleet of vehicle Better customer relations due to more glass repair and replacement vehicles. accurate response times and call Separately, the company has also fitted scheduling, is another benefit,. tracker units to its 75 vehicles that deliver The list of benefits is almost endless and glass to its nationwide network of centres. members of the Fleet Industry Advisory

The company introduced telematics Group (FIAG) are among those because it wanted to reduce its s c i utilising telematics. annual fuel budget, improve t a Telem FIAG was launched earlier driver safety and improve users e this year with the aim of its accident record, which th t developing and sharing is centred on low speed s e g g su e d best practice among incidents. Indeed all three u l c s in fleet decision‑makers benefit ney on fuel, targeted improvements and at its second are inter-linked as mo saving oving driver workshop telematics improving driver will be in the spotlight. behaviour when on the impr iour, and The workshop’s road is one of the most ehav cing b aim – independent of effective ways to save fuel. enhan vity suppliers – is to raise fleet Autoglass fleet i t c understanding of how inmanager and FIAG founder produ vehicle telematics technology member Ged Raymond said: can assist in fleet operations and “The huge saving in our fuel bill is the pitfalls to be aware of in adoption. the result of improving driver behaviour.

Drivers do not want to incur violations so GET THE DRIVERS ON BOARD they are driving more carefully. In turn that At the outset communication with drivers is has also reduced the number of low speed critical as businesses seek to explain that they accidents suffered meaning downtime are introducing telemetry to put the brake has reduced thus also cutting costs.” on fleet costs and drive forward operating efficiencies and not as a ‘spy in the cab’.

INTEGRAL TO FLEET EFFICIENCY Autoglass has recorded a nine per cent fuel Meanwhile, telematics is a key tool in the fleet bill reduction equating to cost savings running management armoury of Martin Carter in into thousands of pounds after introducing charge of the 600-strong company car E

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Telematics

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Fighting heavy plant theft in Europe – The National Plant and Equipment Register (TER) Since 1995, TER has made more than 1,600 stolen equipment recoveries valued at more than £10M for most of the UK’s equipment insurers as well as finance companies, plant dealers and private individuals.

The stolen equipment recovered by TER has ranged from small plant trailers to a huge Caterpillar loading shovel valued at £125,000.

These items have not only been located across the length and breadth of the United Kingdom but also in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and even Australia.

TER’s services are designed to protect you - the owner, user, buyer, seller, insurer or financier - through due-diligence theft and finance security checks, valuations and registration.

TER CHECKS Over £1M of plant machinery, including trailers, is stolen each week in the UK (source: The Home Office) – and a significant percentage of this is circulating within the second-hand market. Buyers are therefore encouraged to check the serial number of the equipment which they are purchasing to ensure that it is not registered with TER as stolen or recorded on finance.

For as little as £10 plus VAT, a search

can be conducted against TER’s register for outstanding theft (known as the TER Trade Check) and, for additional peace of mind, the TER Premium Check also searches the HPI finance database as well as other records for theft and finance.

All searches can be completed online at www.ter-europe.org and a downloadable certificate is provided for each check.

TER VALUATIONS TER recently joined forces with LECTURA to introduce their equipment valuations service to the UK market. This service – which is widely recognised, used and respected throughout Europe – is an easy-to-use, comprehensive, market-linked valuation tool covering all aspects of machinery from

Telematics Consultancy Services provide specialist consultancy services for companies planning to implement vehicle tracking and telematics solutions.

Services Include:  Telematics Strategy  Identification of Products and Suppliers  Project Management  Operational Reviews

A Right First Time Approach Email: info@telematicsconsultancyservices.co.uk Web: www.telematicsconsultancyservices.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.1

agricultural and construction to truckmounted cranes and aerial platforms.

Items can be quickly and accurately valued and each valuation can be customised using variations such as the number of working hours, condition of the item and additional extras.

Valuations are available via the TER website (www.ter-europe.org) for £15 plus VAT each or annual subscriptions are available for unlimited valuations.

TER is currently offering a free 30-day trial of this valuations service. More details are available by calling 01225 464599 or emailing valuation@ter-europe.org.

TER REGISTRATION Registration of equipment is an important risk-management undertaking for equipment owners – in recognition of which, many insurers are prepared to offer a discount on their annual insurance premium.

Registering your ownership of an item is quick and easy – and up to five items can be registered for free on TER’s website.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01225 464599 www.ter-europe.org

FLEET MANAGEMENT  and light commercial vehicle operation at world-leading stairlift manufacturer Stannah.

Introduced as a pilot tracking scheme in a few vans to aid customer responsiveness and schedule flexibility, today the technology is fitted in all vehicles with data collected underpinning the entire fleet operation.

Carter, operations director of Stannah Management Services, and a FIAG founding member, said: “Telematics is not a silver bullet, but it is one thread of fleet management and an integral part in helping us manage the fleet. Fuel, accident and vehicle maintenance costs are all down and telemetry is a contributory factor in improving fleet performance and efficiency.”

Telematics is not just about saving money and improving fleet efficiency, but the data collected from the ‘black boxes’ are also an aid to corporate compliance while issues around driver privacy must also be in focus for businesses.

EMBRACING THE TECHNOLOGY As highlighted, fleets that have already turned to

About FIAG telematics report benefits in numerous areas, but the majority of businesses have yet to embrace the technology.

To-date the telematics market has been dominated by specialist providers. But an increasing number of organisations are looking to capitalise on fleet demand for the technology including vehicle leasing companies, motor manufacturers, telecoms businesses, insurers and firms best know for their breakdown and recovery services.

The disparate telematics market is moving at a rapid pace and what seems clear is that an increasing number of fleets will introduce the technology. Fleet decision‑makers interested in joining the Fleet Industry Advisory Group can visit www.fiag.co.uk and find out details of upcoming workshops. Annual FIAG membership is currently available at a cost of £350. 

The ics telemat oving is m market d pace and i at a rap eems clear s g what creasin n i n a t is tha er of fleets numb oduce the will intr nology tech

FURTHER INFORMATION www.fiag.co.uk

Telematics

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

The Fleet Industry Advisory Group (FIAG) is a not-for-profit organisation created to develop and share best practice in the fleet industry.

Launched in April 2014, it is the brainchild of industry veteran Geoffrey Bray and a team of highly experienced professional fleet managers who collectively have around 200 years experience in running vehicle operations.

Through the considerable knowledge of its founding members, FIAG will provide fleet advice, consultancy, mentoring and support. FIAG will also assist with benchmarking and analysis of industry developments through the publication of white papers and the organisation of workshops.

FIAG is also dedicated to supporting Hope for Tomorrow, a national charity which raises funds to support the introduction of mobile chemotherapy units nationwide.

Volume 22.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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DIGITAL INFORMATION

CAN THE PUBLIC SECTOR EVER GO PAPER-FREE? Many offices and places of work are clogged up with too much paper. The advent of the internet was supposed to herald the dawn of a paper‑free world, which blatantly hasn’t happened.

Nowhere is this truer than in the public sector, where there remains an over‑reliance on paper in many operational areas.

Yet the idea of a paper-free workplace is an attractive one. Those that work in the public sector are aware how paper can clog things up and that removing it in some areas could improve response times to citizens, workplace productivity and of course, help improve the environment. This was demonstrated in a recent AIIM study, ‘Paper Wars 2014 – an update from the battlefield’.

Of those that have introduced paper-free projects, 60 per cent of respondents have seen ROI within 12 months, and more than three-quarters had done so within 18 months.

Furthermore, 68 per cent of respondents

said that business-at-the-speed-of-paper will be ‘unacceptable in just a few years’ time’ and around half of organisations surveyed claimed that the biggest single productivity improvement would be to remove paper.

However, only one in five has a board-level endorsed policy to actually reduce paper and more than one in five organisations (21 per cent) are actually increasing their paper consumption. But is it realistic to think that public sector departments can ever go completely paper-free? Probably not, perhaps we should all be looking at paper-free processes instead and how technology can make that possible.

PAPER-FREE WORKPLACES – AN IMPOSSIBLE DREAM For a community of information professionals such as AIIM, admitting that we will almost certainly never be

The advent net nter of the i posed to was sup e dawn of h herald t‑free world, a paper re is still an but the ‑reliance over per on pa

paper-free is hard to accept. But it is true – the recent AIIM research showed more than half of respondents still print personal paper copies to take to a meeting, or to add a signature. Anecdotally, I’ve heard of public sector meetings where long agendas and background materials are printed for attendees, with a majority of them simply binned (unread) after the meeting.

Our research also highlighted that people still use printed copies for reading offline or out-of-the-office (50 per cent), and particularly to review and mark-up (45 per cent). Despite a number of ministerial mandates to reach paper-free targets, the public sector are as likely to cite a lack of management initiatives (47 per cent) as the major reason there is still so much paper in their business processes, along with the (perceived) need for physical signatures (44 per cent) and a general lack of understanding of the paper-free options.

The need for physical signatures is an interesting area. There are many different electronic signing solutions available ranging from stylus input, automated verification, E

Written by Doug Miles, director of market intelligence, AIIM

Removing paperwork in some areas of the public sector could speed up response times to citizens, improve workplace productivity, and benefit the environment. So why are paperless operations still not the norm, asks Doug Miles, director of market intelligence at AIIM

Document Management

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45

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DIGITAL INFORMATION  digitally encrypted signatures, and web signatures, all of which have a place in achieving paper-free working. Stopping an otherwise all-electronic process simply to collect a physical signature on a piece of paper, which is often immediately re‑scanned, is obviously somewhat sub-optimal and frequently presents a greater confidentiality risk than the electronic original itself.

World Paper Free Day 2014, which took place on 6 November, is an initiative that sought to show how much paper is wasted in the workplace and how well we can manage without it. Hundreds of organisations all over the world – including government departments in the US and UK – participated in going paper-free for the day.

One of the key takeaways was that paper-free business processes are a much more realistic goal than going completely paper-free. There are other technologies beyond electronic signing solutions that can play a role in this.

electronically is very attractive, especially if it can significantly reduce or even eliminate internal mail distribution. Our research asked those who consider they have a digital mailroom scenario, what proportion of mail they scan (not including brochures, junk mail, etc.). 45 per cent are scanning half or more of incoming mail, and 34 per cent are scanning three‑quarters.

Significantly, almost a quarter (23 per cent) are scanning 90 per cent or even 100 per cent.

The concept of a digital mailroom does not rely on the use of large central mailroom scanners. Mail capture can be distributed across regional offices, and can be readily outsourced, so lends itself well to government. Although the investment in scanners and capture servers for scan‑on-entry systems is not insignificant, most respondents saw a strong ROI, with 38 per cent reporting payback in 12 months or less, and 60 per cent within 18 months.

POINT-OF-ENTRY SCANNING The concept of scanning all inbound mail at point-of-entry and routing it around the office

GOING MOBILE As the camera capabilities of mobile devices have improved, the concept of using them as E

World r pe Free Pa which 4 Day 201lace on took p er sought mb 6 Nove how much to showr is wasted pape the in ace workpl

Paper Wars 2014: Update from the Battlefield Aiim released a new study in November 2014 called ‘Paper Wars 2014 – Update from the Battlefield’.

Paper-free processes improve productivity and lower costs, but the biggest impact is on speed of response – response to inbound mail, response to bottlenecks, response to regulatory changes, but above all, response to the customer, citizen or client.

Business‑at-the‑speed-of-paper will be completely unacceptable in a few years’ time.

In this report, Aiim takes an in‑depth look at the amount of paper in the office, the battle plans to remove it, the take up of digital mailrooms and multi-channel capture, and the influence of mobile and cloud. It looks at the progress towards paper-free processes, the triggers and decision-makers, and the issues, benefits and ROI. Download the report at tinyurl.com/lx2yf4r

Document Management

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DIGITAL INFORMATION  a portable scanning device has taken off.

In addition, tablets provide a new way to access electronic forms, creating what we might call a digital clipboard. Indeed, some of the applications are quickly becoming ubiquitous in the public sector – holding social care notes on a tablet, scanning receipts for expense claims, uploading content to back-end systems via a mobile. Capturing signatures with stylus‑tablets has been in use by delivery firms for many years, but there is now an opportunity to extend that to many other areas, or simply to photograph the form, with its signature.

The overriding benefit of mobile capture is speed of data availability: the process can start sooner and responses will be faster.

This can also free up time for public sector workers to spend on other more important areas, helping with the out-going demands on the public sector to do more, with less.

THE CLOUD AND DATA CAPTURE We have seen steady movement in both the use of cloud, and the general willingness to use cloud across the whole ECM spectrum in the past three years. The public sector has been a prominent user of such cloud technologies.

Capture is an interesting application for cloud or particularly SaaS in that data requirements are high, but the recognition technology involved benefits from large, dedicated servers and sophisticated software.

The need for physical signatures is an interesting area. There are different electronic signing solutions available from stylus input, automated verification, digitally-encrypted and web signatures, all of which have help paper-free working Our research revealed that the number of current users of Cloud or SaaS capture applications is around 11 per cent, but those with plans to deploy a cloud solution within the next 18 months will still nearly double that figure to one-in-five, rising to one-in four within three years.

These technologies are all going to be critical as we continue the paper wars. Progress has undoubtedly been made and recalibrating the main goal – from the totally paper-free workforce to the more realistic paper-free business processes – will help even further. The public sector can benefit from this as much, or even more than business. On-going budget restraints mean efficiency improvements are never far from the agenda and reducing paper‑free has been shown to help in this area.

Our survey showed that business‑at‑the‑speed-of-paper is fast becoming unacceptable. It will be a long journey adopting paper-free business

Document Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

processes, but the benefits are clear in terms of improving services to citizens response times and overall productivity. The sooner you get started, the faster you will see the returns.

AIIM president, John Mancini, said: “Reducing paper use has a tangible impact on business, from improved customer service to increased productivity.

Business‑at‑the‑speed‑of-paper simply isn’t compatible with the modern digital enterprise and while we can’t eliminate paper altogether, we can all be much smarter about using less.”

Mancini continued: “The paperless office will probably never arrive but achieving paper-free processes is a realistic goal for any business. There are many ways to capture, manage and store information digitally.” L FURTHER INFORMATION www.aiim.org

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SPORTS SURFACES

IMPROVING NATURAL GRASS PLAYING SURFACES

Local government officers and their contractors can now benefit from expert turf care advice for public sports playing surfaces in a £1.3 million programme funded by national governing bodies of sports, Sport England and the Institute of Groundsmanship The Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme (GNTIP) is designed to raise the standards of sports surfaces as well as the understanding of sports turf management practices among those who manage and maintain the thousands of public sports pitches for football, cricket and rugby throughout England and Wales.

Funded by the IOG, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), The Football Association (The FA), the Rugby Football League (RFL) and Sport England, the initial three-year programme – which builds on the established success of the IOG/ECB-funded regional advisor network – will be headed by national manager Jason Booth, formerly head

The s Ground ral tu and Na vement ro Turf Impramme Prog to raise ned is desig tandards the s orts of sp s surface

groundsman at Leeds Rugby. He will lead a team of turf care expert regional pitch advisors covering London, the south east, north west, north east & Yorkshire and West Midlands, as well as the east, south west and East Midlands.

Each regional pitch advisor liaises with the national governing bodies and reports directly to Jason. They provide support services, training and education to local councils and their contractors (as well as to grassroots clubs and sites), while also managing the development of pitch performance standards through reporting and advising on grounds improvements.

WHAT TO EXPECT As a result, local government officers and those responsible for the maintenance of

public pitches, will be able to access expert turf care advice, training and technical knowledge, as well as guidance on coping with flood damage, for example. Importantly, GNTIP will also enable players to access the best possible facilities in their local community and therefore maximise potential opportunities for growth locally, and deploy a strong infrastructure of support to the public sector particularly during a time of financial austerity. The GNTIP also aims to reduce the likelihood of cancelled matches and training, thus helping economic viability.

PITCH AWARENESS Commenting on the agreement, IOG chief executive Geoff Webb said: “The IOG’s regional advisor network has over the years helped to vastly improve the standards of many sports surfaces, especially at grassroots and volunteer level where funding is often very limited. Now, with additional support from more national governing bodies of sports, we will be able to continue this important work at a much higher number of venues.”

National manager Jason Booth reported that by the end of its first six months, GNTIP has seen more than 100 visits and reports delivered (to The FA) concerning local authority and club sites, along with numerous workshops delivered throughout the country.

“The GNTIP team has made steady progress in raising the much-needed awareness of pitch maintenance and its importance to all sports – especially at grassroots level,” said Jason. E

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About the IOG The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) is the leading membership organisation representing grounds managers, groundsmen, grounds maintenance managers, greenkeepers and all others involved in the management of sports pitches, landscape and amenity facilities in the UK. As well as maintaining the IOG Performance Quality Standards and providing a consultancy service for sports grounds, lawn maintenance and amenity horticulture, the IOG’s extensive Training and Education programme includes cricket, football, tennis, horseracing, bowls, artificial surfaces, turf science and many other specialist subjects.

It also stages the annual SALTEX exhibition, Europe’s leading show for the open space profession.

Optimising available resources is especially relevant in the current climate and the IOG is supporting APSE in a range of courses which support local authorities, including health and safety, asset management in parks and green spaces, as well as street cleaning supervisory skills for team leaders  In addition to the RFL’s initial emphasis on Tier 3 level clubs, The FA has focused on raising awareness of pitch maintenance while also offering support to clubs that are going through asset transfer from local authorities that simply can no longer maintain facilities.

Also, The FA has already provided significant investment to clubs with machinery being supplied to a number of sites, and this will continue with the help of GNTIP. NATIONAL GOVERNING BODIES SAY Tessa Hayhurst, national funding operations manager at the ECB says: “GNTIP will support the ECB’s mission to get more people playing cricket, more frequently in teams. Central to this mission is the continued improvement in the quality of pitches.” Kelly Simmons, director of National Game and Women’s Football at The FA, said: “The FA is pleased to be part of the Programme which will help deliver and support The FA’s targets in the National Game Strategy. It will help deliver against the key aims of growing the game, the retention and development of players and raising standards. The quality of natural turf pitches is key if we are to continue improving and attracting more people to play

and enjoy participating in football. GNTIP will enable football to offer support, guidance and training to affiliated clubs and leagues to ensure that they have all the resources and information required to enable players to play on the best pitches possible. The programme will also inform how we can best direct our investment and ensure that we provide value for money.”

Carol Doran, national facilities manager at the Rugby Football League, said: “The RFL is committed to increasing regular participation in rugby league and therefore believes it is crucial that the sport has access to good quality pitches. GNTIP will have a significant impact on the standard of natural turf pitches by helping to provide essential services and support to grounds staff.”

Charles Johnston, Sport England property director said: “Good quality grass pitches are important for helping people get out and play sport. We recognise the real value and importance of those who maintain and deliver quality pitches every week.”

PARTNERSHIP TO DELIVER TRAINING The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) has partnered with the Association of Public

Service Excellence (APSE) to deliver joint courses which support the maintenance and provision of parks and green spaces.

Optimising available resources is especially relevant in the current climate and the IOG is supporting APSE in a range of courses which support local authorities, including health and safety, asset management in parks and green spaces, as well as street cleaning supervisory skills for team leaders.

Commenting on the partnership, IOG head of education Chris Gray says: “Together we will be able to offer training that brings together the expertise from both organisations, providing an enhanced and well-balanced service to meet the needs of local authorities.

“In particular we are able to provide bespoke training which can address the specific needs of individual authorities in a cost‑effective way. One area that is currently being developed is that of providing training to parks volunteers whose services are increasingly being relied on to reduce management costs and to further engage and empower a community in local decision‑making.”

Jan Kennedy, APSE’s head of training, added: “It is all too easy in the current climate of budget cuts to neglect the training and development of key staff and partners, but this is often a false economy. Getting services right first time, ensuring best practice and good health and safety, as well as delivering for local communities in local environmental services will ultimately deliver dividends in service cost, quality and efficiency. I am really looking forward to delivering our training programmes in partnership with the IOG.” L FURTHER INFORMATION www.iog.org

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ENERGY AUDITS

SWITCH ON TO THE ENERGY AGENDA

Bolt-on renewable and low to zero carbon technologies, such as photovoltaic arrays, wind turbines and solar thermal, are often seen as the answer, although the capital cost can often be seen as a barrier. Whilst these all have a part to play, there should be a consistent strategy running from the energy policy. The standard published ISO 50001, Energy Management Systems, provides a framework for integrating energy performance into management practices. This enables organisations to: develop a policy for more efficient use of energy and fix targets and objectives to meet that policy; use data to better understand and make decisions concerning energy use and consumption; measure the results; review the effectiveness of the policy; and continually improve energy management.

The first step is always to understand current energy use by carrying out energy use audits from an analysis of regular meter readings. This will show, for example, if electricity or gas use is dominant and where improvement efforts should be focused.

A full it aud energy odical th is a me ation of examine, and thus us energy cost, and the energy dures that proce ct on it impa e us

The use of energy is a hot topic. With organisations having to comply with increasing levels of legislation, and society demanding more sustainable and transparent practices, it is vital that organisations are fully aware their energy usage and whether they are adopting best practice wherever possible.

A full energy audit is a methodical examination of energy use, and thus energy cost, and the procedures that impact on its use. Coupled with an energy policy, which can act as a driver for implementing and improving an organisation’s energy management system, you can demonstrate commitment to minimising energy use. This can be broken down in the six elements described below.

TOP LEVEL COMMITMENT It starts at the top. The energy policy should be endorsed by senior management, ideally at board level, in order to demonstrate their commitment and ensure that the organisation allocates the staff time to maintain and enhance its efforts to improve energy efficiency and adapt energy use to its needs. Without that support you are likely to see any initiatives lose momentum and fail to get the widespread behaviour change that these types of projects require.

DEFINING THE STRATEGY In the quest to reduce energy use it can be tempting to rush into quick fix solutions.

DEFINING THE MAIN OBJECTIVES A long-term target should be developed with a series of stepping stones to maintain progress. For example, if you have multiple buildings, consider initially restricting the policy objectives to a small number or even a single building. This will ensure that the project is manageable. It can be rolled out to cover all buildings later. This will also help you to understand the benefits of the policy at a smaller scale, helping inform the roll out across further buildings and informing target settings. It is important to define the area over which the policy applies at any particular time.

The objectives themselves should be simple and clear so that they can be understood by internal and external parties, such as employees, customers, public authorities and investors. They will form the basis for setting energy targets.

COST AND TIME RESOURCES There are certainly long term benefits to be had through better managed energy

TARGET AND REVIEW PERIODS To formulate the energy policy itself, once the scope is defined and a general picture of high level energy use understood, it is important to: set targets and goals; determine action plans; state time frames; and identify key personnel, including the sponsoring senior staff member.

This will allow roles and responsibilities to be transparent and identify building lifecycle factors.

These steps will ensure that efforts are concentrated to optimum effect and that realistic targets and timeframes are set. It will also help you understand whether the project is working and where you may need to adapt approaches.

Written by Chris Moriarty, hed of insight and corporate affairs, BIFM

A full energy audit, coupled with a robust energy policy, can demonstrate an organisation’s commitment to the sustainability agenda. Chris Moriarty from the British Institute of Facilities Management explains how to develop a successful energy policy

but these will be no overnight fix. We must also ensure that we do not focus solely on the financial costs and also consider the human effort required. Changes to the way in which we manage our energy requires behaviour change and for that you need to look at different techniques to build that movement from within the workforce.

One approach would be to form an energy working party to feed ideas into the policy. By acting as advocates they can help establish commitment throughout multiple areas of the organisation. Consulting with people from a variety of skill sets and department will broaden input. It is also a good idea to identify ‘energy champions’, people who can support initiatives on a daily basis in their usual working lives.

Energy

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT The energy policy should be an official, publicly available statement. It should illustrate a commitment to achieve energy management objectives such as to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to do this by continual improvement.

When formulating an energy policy, there is no simple solution to tackling this complex challenge. Each building is different, each organisation is different, and therefore the journey towards better energy management will be unique. That said, the above provides a framework to take the first steps.

What is important is that full commitment is given to it from the start. Our work shows us that organisations are tackling the whole sustainability agenda either to comply with legislation or to enhance their public image. It is encouraging that organisations are reviewing their activity but doing it for these reasons threatens to undermine the benefits that can be realised.

A full and sustained approach to becoming a more sustainable business must be part of the DNA of an organisation; it cannot be a side project, it cannot be a short term goal. Increasingly organisations are becoming switched on to the topic, which is good news. I look forward to seeing how this important debate develops. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.bifm.org.uk/gpgs

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Premier Guarantee gives you the confidence that your properties have been built to the highest quality. This is backed up by our experienced Risk Management Surveyors and RIBA accredited Technical Manual standards.

By providing our customers with a range of warranty, insurance and Building Control solutions tailored to the needs of the industry, Premier Guarantee has become the provider of choice for some of the country’s leading house builders.

For a quotation on your next development, or to join the Premier Guarantee Register – one of the country’s fastest growing house building communities – contact us today on 08444 120 888 to find out how we can make a difference on your developments.

2 Shore Lines Building | Shore Road | Birkenhead | Wirral | CH41 1AU

MD Insurance Services Ltd is the Scheme Administrator for the Premier Guarantee range of structural warranties.

MD Insurance Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

EVENT PREVIEW

Ecobuild

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

THE LOWDOWN ON LOW-CARBON BUILDINGS

Whether your focus for 2015 is delivering new housing or tackling the performance of existing building stock, Ecobuild will give you the latest updates on low-carbon and sustainable construction

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Ecob 3 - 5 Ma uild rch Excel L 2015 Visit us ondon at s S1072 tand

CONTRACTORS HEALTH & SAFETY ASSESSMENT SCHEME

The market leader in Health & Safety pre-qualification • CHAS is the largest and fastest growing Health & Safety

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standard and cover a wide range of sectors including non-construction, construction and care service providers

• Buyers include local authorities, housing associations, main contractors, health trusts and many others

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EVENT PREVIEW Regeneration to transform our transform communities and ultimately deliver sustainable economic growth is the mission UK government, local authorities and housing associations are working towards. However, whilst we must address many of the same common challenges in our bid to deliver low‑carbon, sustainable buildings, each authority has its own unique path and objectives.

Whether your focus for 2015 is delivering new housing, or tackling the performance of existing building stock (commercial and domestic), Ecobuild, the world’s marketplace for green building is the must-attend event for your diary.

Returning to London’s ExCeL on 3-5 March, Ecobuild hosts over 600 of the industry’s most prolific experts and 400+ leading technology, services and solutions providers, to equip public sector professionals with the right

training, tools and technologies to deliver sustainable buildings.

Alison Jackson, group director of sustainability & construction at Ecobuild said: “As the single largest market in the UK, the public sector represents tremendous power in the UK’s delivery of sustainable building.

Ecobuild 2015 will help local authorities transform themselves to respond to the pressures they face and put public sector professionals firmly in the driving seat of decreasing the UK’s carbon footprint.”

CONFERENCE & SEMINARS Ecobuild’s highly regarded conference and seminar programme will tackle a raft of issues, from designing buildings that don’t overheat, are energy efficient and comfortable and attractive, and ensuring buildings are delivered cost effectively, efficiently and E

Building Performance – seminar programme

Ecobuild

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

TUESDAY 3RD MARCH 10.45 - 12.15 Tackling the performance gap in new homes: Strategies for action with the Zero Carbon Hub. Chair: Rob Pannell, MD, Zero Carbon Hub 12.30 - 14.00 Innovate UK Building Performance Programme. Chair: Dr Kerry Mashford, chief executive, national energy foundation 14.30 - 16.00 What Government Soft Landings mean for the supply chain. Chair: Andrew Digby, head, Business Improvement Team, Ministry of Justice; and chair, Government Soft Landings Stewardship Group 16.15 - 17.45 Connecting sustainability buildings with health, productivity and wellbeing.

Chair: Richard Francis, principle, The Monomoy Company WEDNESDAY 4TH MARCH 10.30 - 14.00 The missing link: Engaging and empowering residents to optimise building performance.

Chair: Chris TwinnFounderTwinn Sustainability Innovation 12.30 - 14.00 Successful energy management strategies. Chair: Ed Garrod, head of Integrated Design and Sustainability, Elementa 14.30 - 16.00 Delivering on performance: An integrated approach. Chair: Judit Kimpian, director of Sustainable Archictecture and Research, AHR 16.30 - 18.00 The role of controls and energy management systems in building performance: Understanding, optimising and new developments THURSDAY 5TH MARCH 10.30 - 12.00 Going beyond compliance: Making the most of Energy Saving Opportunity Scheme. Chair: Matt Fulford, director, Inspired Efficiency 12.30 - 14.00 Performance in practice with a fabric-first approach. Chair: Rob Warren, Head of Technical, Celotex 14.15 - 15.45 Bigger, better data: Understanding and using operational data to improve building performance. Chair: Phil Birch, project director, Sweett Group

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Pioneering protection from the experts at Epicuro Epicuro offers superior quality, environmentally friendly, cleaning, protection and waterproofing solutions for use on a variety of structures and buildings. Our range of products are coupled with expert advice, ensuring that our customers and their clients get the best possible outcomes time and again.

Come and see us at Ecobuild, stand ‘S60-901’ at Excel, London, 3rd-5th March, 2015

www.epicuro.co.uk

Protecting for the future

EVENT PREVIEW  perform as designed, to delivering better buildings through programmes such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and how to tap into available funding pools such as the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

For procurement professionals, Ecobuild houses the industry’s leading technology providers, from future construction materials, lighting and technical solutions, to solar, low carbon, resource management and energy efficiency and generation.

Local authorities play a vital role in achieving widespread carbon reduction targets and this issue is top of the agenda at Ecobuild 2015.

homes, with greater potential offered by shared ownership, whereby communities will share the benefits with developers of energy developments built in their area.

The seminar on community energy will explore the policy and incentives intended to accelerate uptake and will examine the benefits, opportunities and barriers.

Fiona Booth, Head of Community Energy Unit, Department of Energy & Climate Change, will discuss policy and incentives to promote uptake and Philip Wolfe, Chair of Community Energy England, will discuss the impact of shared ownership on commercial projects.

Ecobuild’s Green Energy and Solar City seminar programmes will cover the specification and delivery of low and zero carbon energy technologies to homes and other buildings. It also looks at energy supply at community level GREEN ENERGY AND SOLAR From energy storage to the Renewable Heat Incentive, Ecobuild’s Green Energy and Solar City seminar programmes will provide tailored sessions on renewables for both public and private sectors.

Green Energy, sponsored by biomass experts Innasol, will cover the specification and delivery of low and zero carbon energy technologies to homes and other buildings. It also looks at energy supply at the community level. Topics will include determining the most cost effective technology for specific applications, meeting regulations, leveraging the feed in tariff and renewable heat incentive. This stream examines the different energy technologies and how to specify these and the latest technical developments including energy storage.

It will also explore government policy and incentives to stimulate growth and decarbonise energy, as well as the development of the renewables market and emerging technologies. It will present a holistic view of sustainable energy and heat, exploring future challenges and opportunities for generation, storage, demand reduction and demand-side management.

Solar City in association with SMA Solar also returns for 2015 to cover both residential and commercial projects. For the first time, specific sessions are to be held for the public sector including a focus on school solar projects.

COMMUNITY ENERGY The government’s community energy strategy seeks to help more consumers of energy become producers of energy and in doing so decentralise energy. Community energy will drive down prices, cut carbon emissions and diversify the UK’s energy mix.

Estimates suggest local community energy generation schemes could power 1 million

FULLY CPD ACCREDITED SEMINAR PROGRAMME For the first time ever, all Ecobuild seminar sessions will be fully CPD accredited enabling public sector professionals to officially record their personal development undertaken at the event.

The Building Performance seminar programme is definitely worth checking out covering a wide range of issues from connecting sustainable buildings with health, productivity and wellbeing and engaging and empowering residents to optimise building performance, to making the most of the Energy Saving Opportunity Scheme and the role of controls and energy management systems in building performance – understanding, optimising and new developments.

WATER Responding to demand from over 6,000 Ecobuild attendees keen to specify water management and efficiency solutions, organiser UBM will deliver its strongest offering ever in 2015 with a dedicated water area and content programme.

Public sector professionals will experience an industry showcase; from the latest consultancy and services, water efficient and water recycling products, to water infrastructure innovations.

Ecobuild’s official water sponsor Wavin and its brands Hep2O and OSMA will be out in force at the 2015 event. They will be joined by a growing number of brands now committed to the event including ACO, Rainwater Harvesting Ltd, Balmoral Tanks, Biorock and Alutec.

Seminar sessions of note include urban liveability and well-being: balancing blue, green and grey infrastructure, water efficient buildings and landscapes – how do we do it?

And water resilience for cities. E

Designing Better Buildings – seminar programme

Ecobuild

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

TUESDAY 3RD MARCH 10.45 - 12.15 Passivhaus: A model for designing for local climate differences as well as for anticipated climate change?

Chair: Lynne Sullivan, co-founding partner, SustainableByDesign 12.30 - 14.00 Designing to promote wellbeing in and around buildings.

Chair: Derek Clements-Croome, professor, University of Reading 14.30 - 16.00 How can we achieve small-scale, high-quality green construction and retrofit in the real world? Chair: Dan Epstein, director, Useful Simple Projects 16.15 - 17.45 Towards a photosynthetic architecture: The role of bio-based materials in the built environment. Chair: Craig White, director, White DesignChair, Wood for Good WEDNESDAY 4TH MARCH 10.30 - 14.00 Can Passivhaus lead to a ‘zero-carbon’ future for the UK? Chair: Jon Bootland, chief executive, Passivhaus Trust 12.30 - 14.00 Health + comfort + efficiency = the impossible dream? Chair: Bill Gething, Sustainability + Architecture and Professor of Architecture, UWE 14.30 - 16.00 Design for deconstruction and reuse: The circular economy in action. Chair: Gary Newman, Executive chair, Alliance for Sustainable Building Products 16.30 - 18.00 Landscape‑led masterplanning. Chair: John Letherland, partner, Terry Farrell & Partners THURSDAY 5TH MARCH 10.30 - 12.00 Future sustainability: From cost-plus to cost-minus Chair: Chris Twinn, founder, Twinn Sustainability Innovation 12.30 - 14.00 Lighting design: Promoting health and wellbeing Chair: Dr Paul Littlefair, principal lighting consultant, BRE 14.15 - 15.45 Passivhaus: Delivering small, medium and large-scale projects. Chair: Jon Bootland, chief executive, Passivhaus Trust

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Mapei at Ecobuild!

Visit Pamie, Our New Demonstration Vehicle!

New for 2015, Mapei’s Demonstration Vehicle & Hospitality Suite on stand N7030

ND ATES A TOUR D EY T S E T N A UR EL FOR TH LLOW THE JO HANNELS C TO FO MEDIA L IA C O UR S VISIT O

Join us for a glass of bubbly to celebrate the launch of our brand new Demonstration Vehicle, ‘Pamie’!

• View samples of environmentally conscious products across a variety of ranges - including ceramic, resilient and building • Participate in live product demonstrations throughout the day • Meet our technical experts on hand to discuss projects and give product advice • View our latest project references and technical literature

• New product launches • Sign up for one of our RIBA approved CPD presentations across a variety of topics • Book ‘Pamie’ for your event

www.mapei.co.uk

Ecobuild

Green Energy – seminar programme TUESDAY 3RD MARCH 10.45 - 12.15 Green energy: Drivers, challenges and the changing nature of energy 12.30 - 14.00 Innovative heat and energy: Urban case studies.

Chair: Gareth Roberts, partner, Sturgis Carbon Profiling 14.30 - 16.00 Community energy.

Chair: Gaynor Hartnell, Community Engagement advisor, REA MP Greg Barker delivers a speech at Ecobuild 2014

 INNOVATION AREA New for 2015 is Ecobuild’s first ever dedicated Innovation Area. Sponsored by M&S, this curated innovation exhibition will showcase a selection of Ecobuild exhibitors’ new and innovative products.

Fostering innovation at every level, Ecobuild will host a Dragons Den-style session whereby companies will be pitching their new ideas and innovation to a panel of industry experts. For 2015 this will be elevated to a conference session held in one of the two arenas. In conjunction with M&S and the UK-GBC, Ecobuild will launch the search for the best innovations and the team of judges will whittle these down, who will present live at Ecobuild.

RESOURCE For local authorities keen to address management of waste, Ecobuild’s sister event Resource (www.resource-event) is definitely worth a visit. Challenging and changing the way we think about waste, Resource will help local authorities embrace new circular business models to recover greater value from waste. An important topic which will also be addressed is how to build waste management processes into the design of new homes rather than taking the traditional retrospective approach.

BRE’S NEW HOMES STANDARD BRE is launching its New Homes Standard at Ecobuild 2015. The standard is being

For local authorities keen to embrace the latest biodiversity best practice, Ecobuild 2015 is working with a raft of experts producing green roofs, living walls and permeable paving, as well as many animal conservation organisations BIODIVERSITY For local authorities keen to embrace the latest biodiversity best practice, Ecobuild 2015 is working with a raft of experts producing green roofs, living walls and permeable paving, as well as many animal conservation organisations.

Broadening minds on the concept of living walls, is Biotecturewho will be talking vertical forests at Ecobuild; full biodiversity microclimate areas developed with shrubs and small trees creating a more wild and natural look.

Famous for many stunning living wall projects including the roof terrace at Coca-Cola’s HQ and a 240m2 living wall near the Eurostar terminal at Kings Cross, Biotecture uses its patented hydroponic system BioWall to bring a new level of sustainability through intelligent water management and stable system dynamics.

developed in the wake of the recent government review of housing standards. It will be radically different from anything that has gone before, providing developers and RSLs with the opportunity to differentiate their product in the marketplace by recognising quality and performance beyond minimum regulation, and provide increased quality and choice for the consumer.

The launch will include the dramatic unveiling of the name and branding of the standard, which will be launched onto the market following extensive consumer research with homebuyers and tenants.

It will cover issues that are critical to the design and operation of a high quality home, including low energy and water use, improved connectivity and better health and well-being for occupants.

The new standard will be developed for

16.15 - 17.45 Understanding the potential for heat networks Chair: Chris Grainger, engineer, Buro Happold WEDNESDAY 4TH MARCH 10.30 - 14.00 Smart and efficient use of future energy. Chair: Grant Bourhill, director, Smart Systems and HeatETI 12.30 - 14.00 Benefitting from the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive.

Chair: Patrick AllcornHead of Scheme Design - Domestic RHIDepartment of Energy & Climate Change 14.30 - 16.00 Integrating systems to maximise energy efficiencies.

Chair: Andrew Keating, marketing director, Baxi 16.30 - 18.00 Routes to market for generators: Maximising the value of power. Chair: Ben Hall, senior consultant, Cornwall Energy THURSDAY 5TH MARCH 10.30 - 12.00 The role of storage at varying scales Chair: Ray NobleSolar Storage and EVRenewable Energy Association 12.30 - 14.00 On-site renewables: Business case and technology selection 14.15 - 15.45 Treating the whole home: A green energy makeover. the UK markets and can be adapted for specific local circumstances. It will use an easy to understand, consumer focused rating system. It aims to tackle the performance gap issue, ensuring that the home is performing as designed and if not to recommend a course of action the home owner can take.

BRE is an independent and impartial, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, offering expertise in every aspect of the built environment and associated industries. It help clients create better, safer and more sustainable products, buildings, communities and businesses. E

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

SIMPLIFYING SOLAR FOR YOUR BUSINESS SunEdison is a global leader in solar energy and semiconductor products devoted to transforming lives through innovation. We provide groundbreaking, advanced solar products and energy solutions to businesses, the public sector, utility, and residential customers. With more than 50 years of experience and deep expertise in the whole value chain, SunEdison works with local partners to create a world-class customer experience.

www.sunedison.co.uk info_UK@sunedison.com

Microgeneration Microgeneration Certification Scheme

Certification Scheme Stand N2050

The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is an industry-led and internationally The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is an internationally recognised recognised quality assurance scheme, supported by the Department of Energy and Climate quality assurance scheme, supported by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC). MCS certifies microgeneration products used to produce electricity and heat Change.

MCS certifies microgeneration technologies used to produce electricity from renewable sources. and heat from renewable sources.

Throughout Ecobuild MCS will be hosting a series of presentations regarding the updates

MCS a mark of quality and demonstrates industry standards that to theisMCS standards and competency criteria, ascompliance well as those to focussed on the upcoming companies to meet.

It highlights consumers domestic RHIstrive scheme, due to be launched into spring 2014. that companies are able to consistently install or manufacture to the highest quality every time.

Speakers have been confirmed from DECC, Ofgem and the MCS Working Groups. These will run from 10:45-16:30.

For more information about MCS or how to become certified, please visit www.microgenerationcertification.org We would love to meet you, please come and find us on stand N2050.

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EVENT PREVIEW  BREEAM AWARDS The BREEAM Awards 2015 recognise the achievement of those involved in the specification, design, construction and management of BREEAM certified buildings.

They are taking place on 3 March, the first day of Ecobuild and it promises to be the must-attend night of the year for the buildings and property industry.

The ceremony will be attended by the most accomplished in the industry and will also provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy the evening with colleagues and network with the industry, after a hard day at Ecobuild. Be the first to find out who will be walking away with a trophy at the glittering ceremony at The London Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Sq. The shortlist is comprised of an extraordinary variety of inspirational buildings, representing all regions of the UK and several other countries – including the Czech Republic, France, Norway, Romania and Sweden.

They range from city centre towers to industrial facilities, schools and homes, having been drawn from the highest scoring buildings under the BREEAM schemes in the year ending 30 November 2014. Visit www.breeam.org to view the shortlist. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.ecobuild.co.uk

Refurb & Retrofit – seminar programme

Ecobuild

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

TUESDAY 3RD MARCH 10.45 - 12.15 Energy efficiency drivers. Chair: Patrick Brown, Assistant director (Sustainability & Construction)British Property Federation 12.30 - 14.00 Refurbishing building services to deliver energy savings in non-domestic buildings 14.30 - 16.00 Marketing and consumer engagement strategies for refurbishment.

Chair: Dr Kerry Mashford, chief executive, National Energy Foundation 16.15 - 17.45 Learning from refurbishment successes in Europe Chair: Arno Schmickler, director, Urbarno WEDNESDAY 4TH MARCH 10.30 - 14.00 Are traditional buildings really carbon villains? Chair: Neil May, Technical Lead and Co-chair, Sustainable Traditional Buildings Alliance (STBA) 12.30 - 14.00 Learning from large-scale approaches. Chair: Andrew Eagles, managing director, Sustainable Homes 14.30 - 16.00 Energy performance contracting and refurbishment. Chair: Tobias ParkerSustain 16.30 - 18.00 Energy efficiency and Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS). Chair: Adam McTavish, director of Sustainability, Sweett Group THURSDAY 5TH MARCH 10.30 - 12.00 Financing domestic retrofit: Alternatives to the Green Deal.

Chair: Jeremy Kape, director of Property Investment, Affinity Sutton 12.30 - 14.00 Retrofit forensics: De-risking refurbishment. Chair: Peter Rickaby, director, Rickaby Thompson Associates 14.15 - 15.45 Efficient and affordable low-carbon non-domestic refurbishment

Efficient and reliable heating systems BRUGG Pipesystems develops and markets efficient and reliable district heating pipe systems. In the UK, its activities focus on local and district heating in the renewable energy sector.

BRUGG provides complete solutions, from thermal decoupling to the final consumer.

The company’s extensive product range comprises of rigid and flexible pipe systems, either with steel or plastic medium pipe, as well as accessories for any application. Along with a service package ranging from engineering to production and delivery to installation, BRUGG is a competent system supplier of local and longdistance energy networks.

CALPEX is a flexible plastic (PEXa) low-temperature system for reliable supply of service water and heat. CALPEX’s highquality, distinctively corrugated outer casing facilitates

problem-free installation and lastingly protects the highperformance polyurethane composite system. CALPEX reliably and quickly provides access to local heating networks and is an energy-efficient system to last for decades: an investment in a secure future.

PREMANT is a preinsulated district heating pipe with a steel medium pipe. PREMANT pipes are available in sizes ranging from DN 20 to DN 1000. The choice of foam insulation, medium pipe material and leak detection system is yours.

BRUGG’s modern production facility allows the company to react quickly to your requirements and provide high-quality products.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.pipesystems.com

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Two-way radio systems with ‘more than just voice’ Direct Telecom Services are an award‑winning provider of two‑way radio solutions. Established in 1988, Direct Telecom Services supplies, integrates, hires and maintains two‑way radio solutions throughout the UK. Committed to meeting customers’ needs in a fast, but safe and effective manner, a dedicated team of professionally trained staff with a comprehensive knowledge of the vast product portfolio often exceed our client expectations.

Whether you need simple radio to radio communication system, or a system featuring GPS, lone worker protection, fire alarm and telephone integration, detailed advice can be given from our representatives at the Facilities Management 2015 show.

Direct Telecom Services Ltd, Barham House, Barford Road, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 6YQ T: 0800 542 7860 E: info@dts.solutions W: www.dts.solutions

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT SHOW

THREE INTO ONE AT FACILITIES SHOW

After last year’s hugely successful launch, Facilities Management 2015 returns to the NEC, Birmingham for its second edition on 24-26 March 2015. The event, which last year attracted over 4,365 attendees, is set to be bigger and better than ever, with more exhibitors, show features and expert speakers Facilities Management 2015 will again run alongside Maintec – the leading UK event for the maintenance, plant and asset management industry and The Health & Safety Event, which is run by a leader in the health and safety sector, Western Business Exhibitions. Visitors will be able to access all three shows with one badge, offering hours of content in free-to-attend educational seminars, inspirational industry experts, masses of show floor entertainment and a wealth of exhibitors looking to launch new technologies and concepts to the UK market.

EXHIBITION HALL Exhibitors at Facilities Management 2015 include all the major names such as Ice Road Gritters, Scot Young Research, WD40 and Cooleraid. These will be joined by an exciting array of new exhibitors including NBC Bird and Pest Solutions, Kemper UK, Williamson‑Dickie Europe Ltd and Asckey Data Services.

For all those looking to improve their green footprint and for the latest in disinfecting and sanitising, Green World Innovations will be exhibiting its newest product, the lotus® PRO Cleaning Solution. It quickly transforms water into aqueous ozone, by simply infusing water with ozone, which the unit can efficiently stabilise for up to 24 hours. The infused water or aqueous ozone is totally chemical free and serves as a viable alternative to potentially harmful chemical cleaning products. It can be used to effectively and efficiently clean before changing safely back into ordinary water and oxygen, reducing the impact on employees and the environment.

to make adequate provisions for staff at lunchtime, with far greater choices than a simple vending machine. Everything is displayed on accessible shelving units so staff can browse, with payment being made via a touch-screen self-service terminal.

FMFIRST SHOWCASE First time exhibitor, Asckey Data Services, will be using Facilities Management to showcase its fmfirst® product suite to the wider market. This fully integrated CAFM suite has separate targeted modules including: Task Management; Asset Management; Venue Booking; Health and Safety Risk Assessment plus Cleaning Audit Management.

Bernard Hill, commercial director at Asckey explains the reasons behind his company’s decision to exhibit: “We chose Facilities Management due to the wide spread of target industries it reaches. As longstanding NHS health sector specialists, we are now looking to diversify and our product range reflects this. The co-location with Maintec and the Health and Safety Event presents the perfect platform to showcase our fmfirst® product suite to a wider market.”

Williamson-Dickie will also be using the event to exhibit some of its core health and safety and personal

protective equipment (PPE) ranges. The products on display will include showa gloves, gel knee pads, goggles, safety helmets, bump caps, ear defenders, respirators and its safety footwear range.

IMMIX Solutions Ltd will be launching its brand new CRM system at Facilities Management 2015. The system will not have been shown anywhere in the world, making a visit to the show even more worthwhile.

Facilities Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

SHOW FLOOR ENTERTAINMENT Visitors will have plenty of learning opportunities at Facilities Management 2015 too, including a return of FM Matters, where experts from some of the biggest names in industry will share their knowledge and experience.

Running in conjunction with FM Matters will be The Business Exchange. This will feature a selection of free, content-rich practical talks full of the latest research, new innovations and case studies exploring the hottest topics, challenges and trends. For instance Tony Cahill, ‎Executive Director of Business and Service Development at Vivark will be discussing why energy management is becoming an increasingly important subject and explain the significance of creating an integrated workplace design.

BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING Oliver Ridgwell, sales and marketing manager at Manhattan Atrium will be detailing the process of implementing Building Information Modelling (BIM) for a Historic Estate and its integration with use of FM systems.

Whilst Gerard O’Keeffe, CEO at Geopal will be exploring how to transform field operations from a reactive and break/ fix model to a preventative and predictive model.

Few would argue that being more carbon conscious is a hot topic for the Facilities Management industry at the moment.

With this E

“Those within es liti the faci t industry men manageldn’t let this shou ss them by; a show p hould jump they s oard” on b

REDUCING OPERATIONAL COSTS Anyone hoping to discover new ways of reducing the operational cost of their buildings and estates will want to make sure they attend the LCMB stand. LCMB is launching its ‘service and solutions’ business, which provides a risk free means of improving the utilisation of buildings and estates while reducing the associated operational cost and energy usage.

Coin-A-Drink will be showcasing its pioneering micro-market retail concept to the UK. The micro-market is a bespoke store that is located within a business premises, enabling companies on out-of-town estates

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FACILITIES MANAGEMENT SHOW  in mind Matt Whitehead, Head of Energy and Carbon Reduction at LCMB and Mitchel Maynard, Senior Energy Consultant at LCMB will be discussing how to deliver behavioural change when it comes to energy and carbon awareness.

There will be additional entertainment in the form of show favourite, Lions’ Lair, which will see the event’s newest technologies, innovations and concepts pitched to an expert panel in a bid to find the best in show. The winner will be announced live on the show floor, straight after the voting has closed.

Katie Crocombe, facilities management event manager, comments: “The feedback about our debut show last year was fantastic.

It just reiterated to us that there was a largely untapped facilities management community outside London. In such a fast moving sector it is crucial that the information we provide is top drawer, which is why we are expanding the exhibition floor, continuing the successful co-locations with relevant industry shows and providing a high quality seminar programme. Those within the industry shouldn’t let this show pass them by; they should jump on board.” L FURTHER INFORMATION For more information and to register for free entry visit www.fm-birmingham.com

Facilities Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Exhibitors at Facilities Management 2015 include all the major names such as Ice Road Gritters, Scot Young Research, WD40 and Cooleraid. These will be joined by an exciting array of new exhibitors

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Access Control Time and Attendance Integrated Video Management and Access Control Solutions Speak to us today on

0161 236 9488 See us at The Facilities Management Show in the NEC 24-26th March 2015 at Stand F22a

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TO REQUEST YOUR 2015 REINTEC CATALOGUE TEXT REINTEC TO 64121

reintec.com / 08456 02 82 71 Safety / Value / Availability / Support

EVENT PREVIEW

Cleaning

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

THE CLEANING SHOW COMES TO THE CAPITAL

The Cleaning Show 2015, which takes place from 10-12 March 2015 at London’s ExCel Exhibition Centre, is an essential event for anyone responsible for cleaning, maintenance and hygiene The Cleaning Show 2015, which takes place from 10-12 March 2015 at London’s ExCel Exhibition Centre, is designed specifically for the cleaning and support services sector.

It is an essential event for anyone responsible for cleaning, maintenance and hygiene.

The free seminar programme will feature British Cleaning Council sessions discussing solutions for the current challenges facing the industry, as well as a range of other expert speakers.

What’s more, visitors will be able to view over 100 companies demonstrating the latest services and products on the market.

The event, which takes place every two years, is organised by BCCE, a company jointly owned by the British Cleaning Council and Quartz Business Media. The event’s Platinum Sponsor is Mitie.

This year the event moves to London following overwhelming support for a London-based event from buyers, specifiers, and – critically – visitors and buyers across the cleaning and related industries.

The Careers Cinic is available for those looking to take the next stage in their career and want to get some professional advice. The sessions take place with FM Network, are free and take 30-minutes. Fill in the form online to take part. The Training Academy will give visitors a chance to find out about the latest technology on offer and to get professional advice in developing their organisation including advice on how to use social media.

INNOVATION AWARDS The Cleaning Show Innovation Awards 2015 gives prizes for the best innovative products and services in a number of categories. These include cleaning products; floor cleaning; outdoor cleaning; carpet cleaning; window cleaning; washroom hygiene; sustainable cleaning; management Systems; and overall Winner.

Judging is done by a panel of industry professionals and will take day on the first day of the Cleaning Show 2015, with products demonstrated at the show so that visitors can find out more, trial the latest products and technology and place their orders.

Neil Nixon, organiser of the Innovation Awards, said: “The criteria for entry have been simplified for 2015, encouraging more companies to get involved across more clearly defined category groups.” 

eria The crit have y for entr lified for p been simncouraging 2015, e panies to get m more coed across more involv rly defined clea ies categor

FURTHER INFORMATION www.cleaningshow.co.uk

ECONATURAL

WINDOW CLEANING This year the Cleaning Show 2015 will have a greater focus than ever before on the window cleaning sector.

In addition to a host of new window cleaning products and systems on show, the event will also feature the Window Cleaning Competition sponsored by Unger and Principle Window Cleaning.

The world’s fastest window cleaner, Terry ‘Turbo’ Burrows, will take on competitors trying to break his long-standing world speed record for cleaning three regulation-size windows.

The competition – which takes place on Wednesday, 11 March – will be expertly adjudicated by the Federation of Window Cleaners, and details of the event have been logged with Guinness World Records to ensure the record, if broken, will stand.

All participants will have the opportunity to practise for the event during the morning of 10 March. Anyone successfully breaking the world record during the competition will receive a cash prize of £1,000. The competition is free to enter and open to everyone.

Matt Hodgkins, sales and marketing director for Unger UK, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the window cleaning competition at The Cleaning Show 2015. We believe the show is going to be an excellent opportunity for us to showcase our latest innovations for the professional window cleaning industry and look forward to a great event.”

Between 4-5pm on Wednesday 11 March, a networking event for window cleaners will be staged in the VIP Lounge.

What’s more, the Federation of Window Cleaners will also be taking a slot in the seminar area to announce the ‘Window Cleaner of the Year 2015 Award’ on Wednesday 11 March.

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“Finding solutions instead of searching for them. This saves time.”

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MAINTEC 2015

THE MAINTENANCE, PLANT & ASSET MANAGEMENT SHOW

Facilities Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

On 24-26 March, the maintenance, plant and asset management industry showcase, Maintec 2015, returns to the NEC. This will be the fortieth year for the show – a major landmark, and testament to the critical part the show plays in the industry All the signs are that 2015 will be a big year for Maintec. Building on last year, which saw Maintec’s floor plan and visitor base expand, the organisers have confirmed that it will again run alongside Facilities Management, which debuted last year and quickly proved to be a neat fit, as many maintenance professionals now also have a wider FM remit. The Health & Safety Event, run

by Western Business Exhibitions, will also return for its second year. Visitors will be able to access all shows with one badge.

INDUSTRY LEADING EXHIBITORS Exhibitors at Maintec 2015 include all the major names and show regulars such as Hörmann UK, Pruftechnik, Thermaflue, KeyTracker and AV Technology, many of whom will be using the show to launch new products to the market or unveil their very latest work. RMS Reliability has confirmed that it will be using Maintec to present its new web-based learning series, iLearnReliability. This is designed to help industrial plants establish sustainable reliability improvement programs, via four training modules aimed at upper management, reliability and engineering managers, condition monitoring technicians and mechanics, and plant floor operators and craftspeople. eMaint will be showcasing its new eMaint MX Mobile, a wireless version of its computerised maintenance management software which provides an easy-to-use, cost-effective solution for maintenance personnel in the field. Designed to run on smart phones, tablets, or any browser-based device, eMaint MX reduces the need for paperwork and frees technicians from their desktop computer.

Acutest will be displaying its HT MacroTest G3 Multifunction Meter, an innovative instrument capable of carrying out safety tests on domestic and industrial electric systems.

The Cable Detection EZiTEX t100 Signal Transmitter and the FLIR E8 Thermal Imaging Camera will also be exhibited.

For all those looking for the latest in CMMS systems, the Ashcom Technology stand will showcase its MaintiMizer BlackBox – an all-in-one CMMS/EAM solution created for businesses with small or non-existent IT departments. It contains everything wrapped up in a self-contained network appliance. Also on display will be its flagship product, the MaintiMizer Web Edition and its Software as a Service, MaintiMizer.com.

SGS Baseefa will also be using the show to present its certification services and training materials, whilst also offering trained experts to answer any questions visitors might have about certification of explosion protected equipment.

EQUIPMENT MONITORING Returning exhibitor KeyTracker will present its key and tool tracking systems. These allow organisations to secure, control, track, and maximise the usage of important equipment.

Ryan Slaney, business development at KeyTracker, explains why the company is returning to the show: “The incorporation of the Health & Safety Event and Facilities Management last year proved to be a resounding success for Keytracker, resulting in a decision to upgrade to the entrance stand for 2015.”

First time exhibitor IndySoft will be using the show to promote its IndySoft Software and Motion Tablet Computer. The Motion F5v has an integrated 1D and 2D barcode scanner built into the carry handle as well as an option for RFID tracking.

SHOW FLOOR ENTERTAINMENT Visitors will have plenty of learning opportunities at Maintec 2015 too, including a return of The Business Strategy Forum, which will feature sessions from expert speakers and major names from right across the industry.

There will also be a return for The Business Exchange, a packed programme of practical presentations delivered by leading industry names. The Business Exchange will feature free, content-rich talks full of advice, new innovations and case studies for maintenance professionals, engineers, plant and asset managers to learn from.

There will be additional showfloor entertainment in the form of show favourite, Lions’ Lair, which will once again be returning to Maintec with brave exhibitors presenting their new technologies, innovations and concepts to a panel of experts, in front of a live audience, in a bid to be voted best of show. L FURTHER INFORMATION To register for free entry, visit www.maintecuk.com

Inoxantuã Inoxantuã – Instalações em Inox, Lda, founded in May of 2002, initiated its activity connected to the area of construction through the manufacture of all types of equipment.

Today Inoxantuã’s core business is pre-fabrication, manufacture and assembly of piping in carbon steel, stainless steel and titanium. It also manufactures and assembles metallic structures and tanks and provides Industrial Maintenance.

Inoxantuã relies on a young team with a high level of specific training. We have welders certified according to TIG, coated electrodes and MIG/MAG welding processes, working on various types of material, such as carbon steel, stainless steels, Hastelloy, aluminium and titanium.

Several investments are planned for the near future, which include the expansion of the facilities (in a first phase, a plot of adjacent land has already been acquired) and the construction of a blasting cabin by glass beads for stainless steel materials.

Quality is also a priority and for that reason we initiated the certification of our Quality System according to the ISO 9000 Standard.

Inoxantuã’s success lies in its sustained growth and in the partnerships it has created throughout the years, both with clients and suppliers.

www.inoxantua.pt

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Health & Safety

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Leading health & safety risk management Cardinus is a leading health, safety and risk management specialist offering a range of solutions for all areas of every business. Thousands of organisations around the world reduce work-related discomfort, accidents and injury through working with Cardinus.

The company also helps them to increase employee productivity and comply with legislation.

Its areas of expertise include display screen equipment (DSE) risk assessment and training, driver training and fleet risk management, property surveys and risk audits, environmental training and consultancy.

Cardinus services can be tailored to help specialised businesses in specific circumstances.

Cardinus offers enterprise risk management for all types of business risk and e-learning.

It provides managed services and consultancy to deal with all aspects of health and safety. No other risk management company offers such a comprehensive range of solutions.

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Cardinus experts have knowledge of all industry sectors, including construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, electronics and communications, service industries and laboratories. Cardinus people undertake every type of risk management task, from hands-on auditing and surveying through to senior director presentations.

Operating worldwide means Cardinus can meet the needs of any high profile, global organisation using its up-todate knowledge of regulatory requirements in all the territories in which it operates.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 7469 0200 www.cardinus.com

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SlipGrip Interior Stair Tread Covers • Slip resistant solution for indoor stairs and landings.

Refined appearance with easy clean finish.

FibreRail Handrail System • For most applications including walkways, steps, ramps, and wall mounting around access points.

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Tel: 01440 712 722 info@fibregrid.com

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HEALTH & SAFETY EVENT 2015

IIRSM PARTNERS HEALTH & SAFETY EVENT AT THE NEC

The International Institute of Risk and Safety Management is to join the growing list of major organisations sharing expertise at The Health & Safety Event 2015, which takes place at the Birmingham NEC on 24-26 March IIRSM has confirmed that it will independently author one of the main conference streams at The Health and Safety Event, taking place 24th – 26th March 2015 at the NEC, Birmingham. This news comes in addition to the announcement that BOHS, the British Occupational Hygiene Society, has confirmed that it will officially support the event.

IIRSM, the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management, will ensure that the topics to be addressed in the conference cover the latest risk and safety issues and that the presenters are recognised experts, able to deliver insight and relevant experience across a wide range of industries. Commenting on behalf of the event organiser Western Business Exhibitions, event director Tim Else said, “The involvement of the IIRSM in our NEC event compliments the conference content which the British Safety Council provides at our Scotland and North events.

EXPANSION By expanding the breadth of organisations involved in contributing to our conferences we are ensuring that visitors will gain easy access to the leading minds in the sector and ensure that the topics covered remain fresh and pertinent.”

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Greg Brown, Deputy Chief Executive of IIRSM said: “We deliver many educational opportunities, such as forums and our annual conference and our involvement in this event is a natural extension of that work.

Similarly, it’s a great opportunity to showcase the expertise of our members as they contribute to the development and delivery of the educational content. Our role will ensure that visitors are hearing from highly skilled and experienced people who understand the key topics of the day.”

As well as its role in the conference both the IIRSM and the BOHS will take leading roles in the other educational activities taking place at the event, including providing panellists for the ‘Safety Dialogue’ discussions. ‘Safety Dialogue’ is a round table discussion involving a live panel during which experts discuss the latest issues and open up the floor to questions from the audience.

Steve Perkins, Chief Executive of BOHS commented, “BOHS is delighted to support The Health and Safety Event at the NEC. The single most important issue for BOHS is to tackle the huge occupational disease

burden faced in the UK, which causes an estimated 13,000 deaths annually. To this end, we are keen to work in partnership with others to raise awareness of the issue and what can be done to protect workers.

Health & Safety

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES “This event provides an excellent opportunity for BOHS to work together with IIRSM and the other partners and supporters. We will enlighten visitors about what the main health risks in their workplaces may be, and about how these can be accurately assessed and effectively controlled through good occupational hygiene practice.”

Other free educational activities that take place include practical seminars and the newly introduced ‘Safer Logistics Theatre’, sponsored by Toyota.

Appealing to time pressured visitors from across a range of industry sectors The Health and Safety Event is taking place at the same time and in the same location as Maintec, Facilities Management 2015 and Cleaning Expo 2015. This co-location of events ensures that any visitor will maximise the time they spend attending the NEC. L FURTHER INFORMATION To register online visit www.healthandsafetyevents.co.uk or call the event hotline on: 0870 4866816

About the Health & Safety events The Health & Safety Events series represents a great use of time for visitors from virtually any industry and at any level, not just health and safety professionals.

The venues are chosen for ease of access while the educational content addresses the most topical and pressing safety issues.

Along with event partners, Arco, DuPont and NQA and title sponsor 3M, the Health & Safety Events series is officially endorsed by the International Institute of Risk & Safety Management (IIRSM) and supported by the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) and Safety Groups UK. The 2015 series includes 3 events: The Health & Safety Event – NEC Birmingham 24-26th March Health & Safety Scotland – SECC Glasgow, 22-23rd April Health & Safety North – Bolton Arena, 7-8th October

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ARE YOU A STAR OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT?

The Green Star System provides a credible definition of what is an eco-responsible paper. The system is based on the combination of two main elements - the sourcing of raw materials and its manufacturing process. The definition established by Antalis aims to be simple to understand, easy to trust, stringent in terms of its requirements and based on internationally recognised standards. To be a 5-star paper, it must be awarded both the EU Ecolabel and be made from 100% recycled post-consumption or at least 50% recycled minimum (but the virgin fibre must be FSC速 or PEFC certified).

5 star papers include: Cocoon, Cyclus, Digigreen, Image Recycled and Xerox Recycled Supreme.

Learn more at antalis.co.uk or call 0870 607 9014.

Printing

PRINT COMMUNICATIONS

Written by Jonathan Tame, UK country manager, Two Sides and Print Power

WHY PRINT IN AN INCREASINGLY DIGITAL WORLD? Whilst many question the future of print and paper, organisations must better understand print’s effectiveness in communicating information in a multimedia world, argues Jonathan Tame of Two Sides and Print Power The printed word on paper has been around for over 2000 years yet, for this ubiquitous product in our daily lives, its raison d’être is being questioned. Some would argue that, except for the most cherished of documents, there are better ways to store and communicate information. Others, that marketing and advertising is much cheaper on-line and quicker to get the message to the consumer. And then, of course, there is the question of the environmental impacts.

Whilst many question the future of print and paper, organisations must better understand print’s effectiveness. It’s engaging tactile qualities and, how it delivers a proven ROI (return on investment). At the same time, organisations should be confident in the unique sustainable attributes of paper and,

when considering the environment, realise that digital alternatives have impacts too.

trackable, cost-efficient and fast-paced nature of digital communications will often win out at a time when budgets are squeezed and the pressure for quick results is increased.

However, with more and more studies and reports about the highly effective nature of print marketing emerging, marketers are starting to realise that print has lost none of its ability to turn consumer interest into sales. If anything, digital printing, greater creativity and a wider choice of papers and finishes E

ations Organisld be shou in the nt confide e attributes abl sustain paper and of digital t a h t e realis tives have alterna cts too impa

PRINT MEDIA’S EFFECTIVENESS – THE BOTTOM LINE While print has many fans in the marketing, advertising and media industries, whether it receives the same budget in an integrated multichannel campaign as digital platforms such as web, email, mobile and social will come down to ROI – in other words, its effectiveness. And for many brands, the

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PRINT COMMUNICATIONS  have meant that print is increasing its effectiveness, especially when combined with other media in a multichannel campaign.

In an exclusive meta-analysis project carried out for Print Power, international research firm BrandScience confirmed that print is proving increasingly effective when utilised as a key element within a multimedia campaign. Looking at specific examples of magazine advertising for specific brands, the BrandScience project identified research that included a crucial IPC/ Insight report that found that every £1 invested in magazines generated an ROI of £1.40.

Furthermore, an Omnicom study found that print is the most efficient medium across a number of categories. For every £1 spent, magazines generate £1.47 for FMCG clients, £1.89 for finance advertisers and an incredible £11.31 for telecoms advertisers.

As Sally Dickerson, CEO of BrandScience, says: “It’s really important to think about not just whether an individual print ROI is better than somebody else’s, but how the inclusion of print in a campaign helps that overall campaign. Print is often going to be a secondary or tertiary medium, but it gets to people and lets them find out more than a TV ad or an ephemeral online ad would do.”

Printing

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

“There aren’t many industries around that can aspire to becoming genuinely sustainable.

The paper industry, however, is one of them; it is inherently sustainable.”

Jonathan Porritt, Co-Founder Forum for the Future FROM ONLINE TO PRINT An important indication of the effectiveness of print can be seen in the amount of online brands turning to it for their marketing communications. When online fashion retailer Net-A-Porter announced the launch of their new print magazine, Porter, the company’s founder Natalie Massenet said: “I know it sounds crazy, but we’re a multimedia company. And, in the same way that you have to have a Facebook page and an Instagram account and be on mobile and have a website, you also need to be in print.”

Porter is one of the highest-profile examples of a growing trend: internet-based brands turning to print to engage with their existing customers, generate new ones and sell more product. The magazine uses interactive

technology to allow the reader to view and buy featured products, visit featured brand’s websites, view exclusive video content and use a VIP concierge shopping service by scanning the page via the Net-A-Porter app.

ONLINE GIANTS TURNING TO PRINT But it’s not just fashion that’s feeling the positive effects of print’s high levels of credibility and trust. Other traditional online brands journeying into print include; Boden, Ocadolife, Achica Living, Matches. Even Google, the world’s biggest internet company, turned to print to communicate with some of their hard-to-reach business customers.

Billed as “a breathing space in a busy world”, Think Quarterly was conceived as a lean-back publication for the search E

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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PRINT COMMUNICATIONS

Printing

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

About Two Sides Two Sides was created in 2008 with members from the Graphic Communications Supply Chain, creating a forum for the industry to work together and share experiences, improve standards and practices; and maximise customer confidence in print products.

 company, extolling the virtues of print and encouraging the exchange of ideas within a community of C-Suite contacts.

One print area of g which in market marketers excites the various is excited in which a augmented reality ways er can be (AR) is now a reality.

Consumers can stand in consumfrom print their homes and see how d e mov l a piece of furniture featured a t i to dig in a catalogue would look in

BRIDGING THE DIVIDE One area of print marketing that’s currently getting marketers excited is bridging technologies – the various ways in which a consumer can be moved from print to digital. Done well, this can convert the high levels of consumer engagement provided by print into further online investigation, data capture and direct sales.

The bridging technology that’s getting the most amount of attention is augmented reality. The technology that enables reality to be overlaid with images, graphics and text from the digital realm has been promised for years, but a host of campaigns suggest

their living room or buy clothing direct from the pages of a magazine.

All these wow-factor experiences are now available through your smartphone.

What was far-fetched five years ago is now becoming real thanks to fast-developing technology offered by AR software companies such as Blippar, Layar and Aurasma.

The development of image-recognition AR also means that, unlike the monochrome squares of QR codes, virtually any image can work as the trigger for a digital experience. IKEA, Tesco, Audi, Starbucks, BMW and Lego are among the many international brands now capitalising on augmented reality.

Two Sides is made up of companies from the Graphic Communications Supply Chain including forestry, pulp, paper, inks and chemicals, pre press, press, finishing, publishing, printing, envelopes and postal operators.

Its common goal is to promote the sustainability of the graphics communication supply chain and dispel common environmental misconceptions by providing users with verifiable information on why print and paper is an attractive, practical and sustainable communications medium.

Led by sustainable and responsible forestry, paper production and printing, Two Sides aspires to ensure that, in a world of scarce resources, print and paper’s unique recyclable and renewable qualities can be enjoyed for generations to come. Two Sides is further committed to ensuring that print and paper also remains a versatile, effective and powerful means of marketing and communication, stretching the imagination and imparting knowledge.

Two Sides is a not-for-profit organisation: www.twosides.info SUSTAINABILITY OF PAPER AND PRINT But, what about the sustainability of paper and print media? For a long time the industry has tolerated misinformation about its environmental record. Commonly print and paper are considered a primary cause of deforestation. This myth has been perpetuated by organisations promoting alleged “tree-saving” benefits by moving to on-line billing. The truth is it saves them money and the reality of paper’s impacts on forests is very different.

European forests, where 94 per cent of paper is sourced from, have grown by 30 per cent since 1950 and now cover 44 per cent of land area. They are expanding by 1.5 million football pitches every year, an area four times the size of London, and as young forests grow they absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and continue to store carbon through their lifetime.

Of course tropical forests are under threat but, this is largely due to land clearance for E

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TAKE A REFRESHING LOOK

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PRINT COMMUNICATIONS

The world may have changed, but what hasn’t changed is the natural appeal of print and its power of engagement, gaining a consumer’s trust in a way that’s still unmatched by other media along with its unique sustainable qualities  agriculture or fuel as indigenous peoples aspire to the affluence of the west. The paper industry has little to do with this and, by adhering to certification schemes, responsible buyers can ensure that they only buy from sustainable sources. Another common myth is that paper making uses a lot of non-renewable energy and has a high carbon footprint. In fact the paper industry is Europe’s largest user of renewable, low carbon energy and 54 per cent of the energy used in European paper making is biomass based.

It is important not to forget that the digital alternatives also have impacts. The IT industry is the fastest growing user of energy and, it has been predicted if current rates of growth are maintained, will consume over 50 per cent of the country’s energy requirements in the next ten years. Electronic waste is now the fastest growing component of the municipal waste stream. The amount of electronic products discarded globally has sky rocketed

recently with more than 20 million tonnes generated every year. In Europe, e-waste is increasing at 3-5 per cent a year, almost three times faster than the total waste stream.

Rather than considering print and paper as wasteful, it is good to know that more than 72 per cent is now recovered for recycling in the UK. Recovered paper fibre is re-manufactured back into new paper, packaging or other industrial products making paper inherently sustainable.

FINAL WORD If you were to invent the ideal communications medium for the modern consumer, you would have to take a number of things into consideration. It would have to be light, flexible, portable, recyclable, able to express colour in fine detail, and have a satisfying, tactile nature that felt good in the hand.

Something, you might say, a little like print.

Print and Paper has been around for more

About Print Power Print Power is a pan-European organisation dedicated to promoting print media and its role in modern integrated marketing programmes and campaigns. The organisation comprises a wide range of companies representing the entire print media value chain – production, distribution, printing, content and delivery. This gives Print Power a unique level of expertise and experience in all areas of the print industry. For further details, visit www.printpower.eu

Conferences & Events Printing

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

than four centuries. Of course, the world has changed over those four centuries and, arguably, it’s changed the most over the past decade for the communications industry. But what hasn’t changed is the natural appeal of print and its power of engagement, gaining a consumer’s trust and attention in a way that’s still unmatched by other media along with its unique sustainable qualities. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.twosides.info www.printpower.eu

ASL is one of the UK’s leading independent reprographic suppliers, offering the latest print, copy and scan solutions to make your business more efficient, cost effective and environmentally sound.         

Document Management Solutions (DMS) Colour/mono photocopiers and printers including Kyocera, Ricoh, Lexmark, Epson, Konica Minolta Managed Print Services (MPS) Advanced software solutions to manage your document workflow Franking Machines Duplicator Printers Impartial advice and consultancy Flexible finance options First class customer support and service contracts

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OFFICE PRODUCTS

WINDS OF CHANGE

You need quality office products from sustainable sources, at the best price possible, from reliable suppliers. But is this sustainable in the long term, asks Michael Gardner, CEO of BOSS Federation wanted branded pens and books and filing products are now coming to retirement age.

The Generation ‘X’ (born between 1965 and 1980) saw the rise of laptops and PCs and their buying patterns moved away from traditional products into electronic office supplies and consumables with less spend on paper and traditional stationery products. EOS (Electronic Office Supplies) grew from nil to 53 per cent of spend on office products during the last 20 years.

We now have the millennial generation (also known as Generation ‘Y’ born between 1980 and 2000). This is the technological generation brought up with the internet, with cloud technology, smartphones, iPads and the need for instant information. They want multifunctional devices, use the cloud for archive filing, store all their data and pictures electronically and are used to using Google to find answers to all their needs. The Millennial Generation now tend to work from home and the SOHO Market (Small Office Home Office) has created the need to expand the office supplies product range into new and exciting creative products and craft products as well at technology.

The nce of emergeng and e-retaili e has also BIG DATA erc e-commthe traditional Big data is now a much talked changedof catalogue about marketing way tool by many large ion and t c u d OPI players. Up o r p selling, cross selling, pricing

product promotion and pricing can now be driven by end users buying habits. It is staggering the amount of data held on consumer buying patterns and trends and this is helping to increase turnover, improve margin and reduce waste in the supply chain. Most large OPI companies are now using this data to stock and distribute the products customers need and want and to look at new product and services.

As the traditional products are reducing (paper, envelopes, filing) so the industry is adopting new products to fill the void.

Facilities management supplies (FM or FS) such as health and safety equipment, workwear, confectionery, drinks, hygiene products are now becoming part of the normal contract for office products and supplies. This is largely displacing the traditional ways of buying these products but is adding value to the supply chain and taking cost out of it and

Written by Michael Gardner, ceo, BOSS Federation

The office products industry in the UK has seen see major changes and mergers within the last few months which will have wider implications for both suppliers and customers.

The merging of Spicers with Office Team (SPOT) and the merger of Vasanta group with Office2Office (EVO) has blurred the distinct wholesaler/contract stationer/dealer structure that has existed for decades. Both will be looking for synergy in cost reduction, looking at expanding their market channels and will want to take costs out of the supply chain.

The industry has also seen an increase in large retailers taking market share both in store and via their online offering.

Amazon is having a major impact on the Industry with many manufacturers/ suppliers to the industry now seeing them as one of their top 10 customers.

Fewer manufacturers now manufacture in the UK and the market is seen now as a European or pan global market with many products supplied from Europe or Asia, with stocking and distribution only provided in the UK.

E-COMMERCE The emergence of e-retailing and e-commerce has also changed the traditional way of catalogue production and pricing with net core lists and discounts off recommended selling prices now for many customers a thing of the past.

With Google, eBay, Amazon and internet access open to both corporate and individuals, the ability to get net pricing at the end of a few clicks is the norm.

This is great for those who have time to search out a bargain but for government it is not cost justified. Government and corporate entities need to control their spend on OPI products. They need the monthly consolidated invoices, monthly management information on spend by department, by product by price and they need to ensure that their staff are complying with corporate accepted procedures on sustainability, on quality and on preferred suppliers. Printed and priced catalogues updated annually are being replaced by online digital net priced catalogues with new products added as they come to market.

Other factors are changing our buying habits such as the emergence of the millennial generation. The ‘baby boomers’ (born between 1946 and 1964) who

giving control back to the customer in being able to identify spend in these categories.

Print Managed Service (PMS) is a growing market with printers/copiers now provided on contract with online monitoring of performance, breakdown and supplies taking the daily task away from employees and providing valuable management information on clicks and usage.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES Sustainability and environmental issues play a major part in government and corporate buying decisions. Any supplier who does not have a policy on environmentally friendly products from sustainable sources will not be on the tender list. Neither will suppliers who do not have a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy in place and implemented. In Europe a new federation called SOFEA has been set up to create a single eco label for the European Office Products Industry. This will eventually replace the plethora of eco labels which most companies do not understand.

The initial phase planned for 2015 includes paper, filing and writing instruments and over the next five years the intention is to have a single eco label easily understood to cover all current Office products in the EU. So how is BOSS helping our members through this period of change and consolidation? On 14 January at St Brides Foundation London, BOSS is hosting a ‘Future of the Office Products Industry’ event. It will explore the changes to the industry, the consolidations yet to come, collaboration in the supply chain and the shape of the industry in the future.

Government and corporate organisations need to understand this wind of change blowing through the industry. They need to look beyond the current discounting to get the best deal for today. They need to understand that the current model of same day, next day, order by 10.00pm, 99.9 per cent in stock delivery, no premium for small deliveries and negative or small margins for suppliers is no longer viable.

The industry is changing and at a faster rate than ever seen before. It will come through stronger and leaner with larger pan European consolidations and structures both in manufacturing and distribution. There will still be small SMEs who have adapted to change in technology and products and services and who have developed niche markets or Omni channel routes to market. These provide a vital function at a regional level. The emergence of e-commerce, internet shopping and an expansion of the range and breadth of products available through Office Products resellers and distributors will be staggering.

Whilst many of these changes are technology-led, the relationship between customer and supplier is vital. L

Stationery

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FURTHER INFORMATION www.bossfederation.com

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Situated on London’s South Bank, Blue Fin Venue offers a flexible and highly accessible solution to your venue requirements.

Our contemporary event space occupies the 10th & 11th floors of the award-winning Blue Fin Building.

Stunning views of the Thames, the City and Docklands provide the backdrop for an assortment of tastefully designed meeting rooms whilst our large landscaped terraces offer unique and highly desired space for outdoor events.

Whatever your hospitality requirement our friendly and professional on-site hospitality team can deliver; corporate meetings, training events, product launches, formal or informal dining plus a huge array of after-work entertaining. A range of easy to navigate delegate packages is available however we are always happy to tailor our solution to your specific requirements.

Why not call us with your brief and discover how simple and streamlined event planning can be with the Blue Fin Venue team?

Contact us:Maria Slinn Venue Manager Blue Fin Venue Blue Fin Building 110 Southwark Street London SE1 0SU T: +44 (0)20 3148 5030 D: +44 (0)20 3148 7266 E: maria.slinn@bluefinvenue.co.uk W: www.bluefinvenue.co.uk

Capacities Meeting Rooms Boardroom Cabaret

10 – 30 10 – 40

Theatre

up to 100

Reception events Standing Sit down

10 to 400 10 to 140

Conferences & Events

Image courtesy of London on View

LONDON

DESTINATION LONDON

Named Best Culture Destination last year, London offers an eclectic mix of conference and event venues to suit all tastes and budgets, writes London & Partners No other city matches London for energy, diversity, creativity and constant reinvention. London, rich in enigmatic stories and dazzling living history, has long captured the imagination of the world.

This iconic city boasts an abundance of royal palaces, manicured parks and world‑class galleries, all sitting comfortably alongside cutting-edge industry clusters, sky-high hotels and modern event venues.

London is an eclectic mix with an offer for everyone. Be it budget or luxury the city can elevate a good event to a great one.

LONDON VENUES London offers visitors the best of the old and new. Historic venues and contemporary landmarks sit side-by-side and many can be hired as meeting venues or for private parties.

Zanine Adams, head of business development, UK at London & Partners, says: “London’s venue offer is thriving. We have so many superb new locations opening their doors and this just highlights the pace of change and the palpable feeling of enthusiasm we now have in the city. Fantastic new venues are launching almost every day or reinventing their offer to stay at the cutting-edge.”

Newly-opened venues in London include the refurbished QEII Centre, which recently revealed a spectacular new look after completing the first two phases of its £12 million capital investment programme.

IWM London, the flagship venue for Imperial War Museum also reopened with a spectacular new Atrium designed by Norman Foster’s pioneering architecture firm. The venue features a breath-taking hanging gallery in the rooftop providing dramatic views of the floors beneath.

The iconic Tower Bridge recently unveiled its new glass floor walk-way which allows E

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MARBLE ARCH

It’s the business A world-class meeting space just a few paces from Oxford Street. What’s not to like?

• • • • • •

Healthy breakfast Working or Marmor Grill lunch Unlimited tea, coffee and mineral water Dedicated staff contact LCD projector and screen, flipchart, stationery Wi-fi and jelly beans!

To check availability of any one of our 11 meeting rooms, from 8 to 400 seats, call the Meeting and Events team on

020 7514 2612

or visit www.thistle.co.uk/marblearch Terms and Conditions apply, valid for bookings from January - June 2015.

All rates include VAT.

Day delegate rates from

£59

Image courtesy of London on View

LONDON

London has an incredible number of cultural venues to choose from. The Museum of London, Somerset House and the National Theatre offer conference and events space and can be paired with gallery viewings or theatrical productions  guests to enjoy London life beneath their feet from a unique viewpoint and creates a wonderful backdrop to any event.

The latest addition to London’s dramatic skyline will fuse panoramic city views with the ambiance of a mystical forest garden above the historic City of London. As one of the most talked about venue openings of the year, The Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street, opened its doors early December (and will be open to general public from 5 January 2015).

Comprising of two restaurants, three event spaces and a private dining room, it will be a unique new destination venue for the capital.

LONDON FOR CULTURE In October, London was named Best Culture Destination in the inaugural Leading Culture Destinations annual awards. “London

is a unique and diverse destination that combines dazzling living history with magnificent exhibitions, world-class theatre, bustling nightlife and fantastic cuisine,” said Adams. “Delegates can enjoy access to private viewings in museums and art galleries, behind-the-scenes theatres and gallery tours, as well as discussions with well-known artists, actors and musicians.”

London has an incredible number of cultural venues to choose from. The Museum of London, Somerset House and the National Theatre all offer conference and events space and can be paired with gallery viewings or theatrical productions.

LONDON FOR TECH London is now the biggest technology cluster in Europe with emerging start-ups setting

up alongside global powerhouse brands such as Facebook, Twitter and Google.

Event planners can harness the city’s vibrant tech scene for their own benefit. “London’s technology credentials are unrivalled right now in Europe,” says Russ Shaw of Tech London Advocates. “Tech City now spans the entire capital and with that comes ready access to some of the world’s most inspirational tech speakers, the opportunity to embed cutting-edge technology into your events, as well as a vital pool of potential sponsors on the doorstep” The City of Opportunity Index, an influential international study compiled by professional services firm PwC, underlines London’s tech credentials. Analysing economic influence, technology access, reputation as an urban gateway, and development and design capabilities, London was selected ahead of New York, San Francisco, Singapore and Toronto. Speaking about London’s success, David Snell, a partners at PwC in London, said: “What’s particularly interesting this year is the city’s growing digital reputation.

There’s no doubt that this is linked to London’s impressive performance across indicators on education, technology access, skills, and ease of doing business.”

The City of London, the historical heart of the capital, and Canary Wharf, the city’s second financial district, offer a wide range of venues fit to welcome high-tech and financial meetings and events including the London Stock Exchange, Guildhall, Mansion House, the Barbican centre or The Gherkin. Etc Venues also opened a new 20,000 sq ft dedicated conference, exhibition and event space in the heart of The City, near Liverpool Street Station.

Conferences & Events

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LONDON AND LIFE SCIENCES ExCeL London recently announced four major association wins for the city in 2016 with The European Respiratory Society and Euroanaesthesia, choosing ExCeL for the first time, and EULAR (The European League Against Rheumatism) returning to the venue following a successful event in 2011. The Alzheimer’s Association will also host its annual conference in London for the first time in 2017.

This follows the launch of MedCity which was established by the Mayor of London in partnership with the capital’s three Academic Health Science Centres to promote innovation and investment in the life sciences cluster of London and the south east Dr Eliot Forster, Executive Chair of MedCity, says: “This is a hugely exciting time for life sciences in London and the south east, with a number of ambitious new initiatives and infrastructure developments under way to promote collaboration across all the sectors that make up this cluster. It’s terrific for those of us who do business in the region that these events will bring in experts from around the world to London in such numbers to network and collaborate.” E

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Michelin-starred Chef Herbert Berger runs the catering at Innholders Hall, located near Cannon Street Station. Herbert & Elena, having hosted City based events for over 25 years, have introduced their expertise into this unique events venue, bringing fine dining to what is known as the home of hospitality. Steeped in 17th century history yet with 21st century facilities the three stunning event spaces are able to accommodate a wide variety of functions. From corporate breakfast meetings to lunches and dinners as well as conferences, meetings, exhibitions, wine tastings, gastronomic events and family events such as wedding, retirement parties and birthday celebrations.

It is a hidden gem & the only hall with a Michelin starred Chef. The ultimate private dining experience in the City of London.

Please contact Elena Leva, Events & Marketing Manager, elena@innholders.co.uk, T: 020 7236 6703

www.innholders.co.uk

LONDON attended events, coming from countries  Darren Mendola, senior director of around the world including the USA, Canada, conference services at the Alzheimer’s Mexico, China, Hong Kong and South Africa.

Association, adds: “London has everything London Technology Week, comprised an international conference attendee needs: more than 200 independently run events stunning historic attractions, excellent with keynote speakers such as transport connectivity and high-tech, Chairman of Sequoia Capital, high-capacity events spaces.”

In Sir Michael Moritz; Michael London offers an abundance r e b Birch, co‑founder of Bebo of academic venues to o t Oc n and Simon Breakwell, hold meetings and o d n o co‑founder of Expedia. events, including the 2014, L ed Best Speaking about the purpose‑built convention m a n s n o i wa t a n week’s success, Russ centre at ExCeL London. i t s e Shaw, Founder of Tech The Royal College ulture Dnaugural C i London Advocates, of Physicians is an e h in t ure t l u said: “London award-winning, modern C g n Leadi ations Technology Week building overlooking surpassed expectations Regent’s Park, with a Destin wards not only in terms of private garden in the heart a annual attendees but also the of London, and offering no less unprecedented platform it has than 18 meetings spaces. Located given our capital’s burgeoning tech across three sites in London, Queen sector and pioneering tech companies. The Mary University offers a variety of event events and enthusiasm displayed across space for as little as 10 guests, up to 800. the week have clearly demonstrated that far from becoming complacent about INNOVATIVE EVENTS London’s position on the global tech stage, 2014 saw the first London Technology Week countless individuals and organisations are during which tens of thousands of delegates

consolidating success, tackling the remaining obstacles and cementing our position as a world capital for technology.”

Other flagship events hosted in the city in 2014 included Advertising Week Europe, which took place over four days in March and saw over 20,000 attendees join the city‑wide event. In October TechCrunch Disrupt came to the city and featured speakers such as Ed Vaizey, the Culture, Media and Sport Minister, and Eileen Burbridge, partner at venture capital firm Passion Capital.

In 2015 London will host its first-ever London Mobile Games Week. Set up in association with London & Partners, London Mobile Games Week is a week-long series of industry events dedicated to the business of mobile games. The European Society of Cardiology will also come to London in 2015.

The ESC Congress is the largest cardiology meeting in the world. Around 35,000 medical professionals are expected in the capital for the five-day event from 29 August – 2 September 2015 at ExCeL London.

Conference & Events

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THE LEADING CITY FOR EVENTS With such a broad spectrum of high-profile events in the city, it comes as no surprise E

IWM London’s new Norman Foster-designed atrium features a hanging gallery (Image: IWM London)

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WELCOME TO A NEW EXPERIENCE IN THE HEART OF LONDON

HOTEL · APARTMENTS AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT MEETING ROOMS

THe ultimate garden party venue A new hotel experience perfect for relaxing after a busy day in London. Whether for business or pleasure relax at Longford´s Bar or taste the exquisite Spanish gastronomy of L’Albufera Restaurant before enjoying our spacious and comfortable rooms.

Welcome to the Meliá experience in the heart of London. It is not our job it is our passion.

From private functions to corporate parties and company away-days, London’s oldest botanic garden offers a tranquil and secluded space in the heart of the capital.

66 Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HS Tel. 020 7352 5646 hire@chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

PSI 125x86.indd 1

Regents Park, Albany Street, NW1 3UP. London, UK +44 020 7391 3000 · meliahotels.com

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Gliding past the capital’s most-loved landmarks with family, friends or colleagues is a unique way to soak up the spirit of London.

T H ET HH EA R HM AR OM N YO N Y

T H ET HSEY MS P YH MO PN H YO N Y

THE HARMONY

I

T H ET HN E A TNI ACTI A ICIA

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I

I

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LUNCH AFTERNOON TEA DINNER EVENTS GIFTS bateauxlondon.com Tel: 020 7695 1809 Half Page Horizontal.indd 1

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14/11/2014 10:17

LONDON

 that London was recently named the leading European city for meetings and events by the American Express Meetings & Events 2015 Global Meetings Forecast, ahead of Paris, Barcelona, Amsterdam and Berlin.

Commenting on the news London & Partners’ Zanine Adams said: “London is a world-class destination for meetings, events and incentive travel and we are delighted that the city’s events industry has been awarded this latest accolade.”

Conference & Events

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

London n has bee ading London offers purpose-built the le convention venues named an city for such as ExCel e p s o t r n u e E ev d n a s meeting erican Express m by the AMeetings are excited to visit and 15 0 2 eager to do business s t n & Eve eetings in. We welcome the opportunity to showcase this Global Mcast to event planners from across Fore

London’s connectivity and ease of access was underlined by American Express Meetings & Events and this combined with the city’s rich culture and heritage, it’s thriving tech, medical, creative and financial industries, and it’s wealth of fantastic venues, makes London an exciting proposition for event organisers.

Says Adams: “London is a city that people

the UK and around the world, helping them to create and deliver fantastic events in 2015 and beyond.” L FURTHER INFORMATION www.conventionbureau.london

A unique venue for your special event TRINITY HOUSE, conveniently located on Tower Hill near underground stations, overlooks Trinity Square Gardens towards the Tower of London and is the working home of the General Lighthouse Authority for England and Wales.

Behind the Georgian exterior is a suite of five elegant south‑facing rooms showcasing a myriad maritime treasures and available on an exclusive hire basis with seating capacities for 130 / 60 in the two main rooms.

Please visit www.trinityhouse.co.uk/events or email Events Manager, Edgar King at: edgar.king@thls.org for more information.

Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4DH

Award-winning architecture and catering in the heart of Trafalgar Square With flexible spaces and menus and a central London location, St Martin-in-the-Fields is the ideal venue to get the team together for: • Meetings and conferences • Lunches and dinners • Events and launches • Receptions and parties • Capacity 10-350 Let our Events Team tell you more.

020 7766 1165 | events@smitf.org | www.smitf.org

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The UK evenTs indUsTry, all Under one roof

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Co-located with

Keynote speakers such as Karren Brady offer advice to delegates and take part in a series of debates affecting the event industry

the night before the show opening, Confex will host 50 senior association buyers for a dinner and overnight stay.

The association programme will also present an influential line up of speakers who will provide best practice case studies and solutions for common challenges.

A networking lunch will allow attendees time to meet with colleagues and peers.

“Association planners form a significant part of our visitors, so we have developed a tailored programme that gives them the content, inspiration and solutions that they want from Confex,” says Event Director Liz Agostini. “We’re expecting a strong turn out for the Forum, and we’re delighted with the content that’s being created.”

To attend either the association hosted dinner or the Association Events Forum, register via the hosted buyer application on the Confex website. Attendance at both is free of charge to pre-qualified association event planners.

EVENT PREVIEW

THE EVENT FOR EVENT BUYERS

International Confex, taking place on 18-19 February at London’s Olympia, connects event organisers with an exciting line-up of venues, destinations and event support services Visitor registration for International Confex 2015 is now live, and the UK event industry’s biggest exhibition showcase is now on our doorstep, taking place at Olympia London 18-19 February 15.

The show remains the perfect place for public sector event organisers to source venues, destinations and suppliers for their next event. International Confex will have two co-located exhibitions from the broader sector, as the Event Production Show and Office Management & PA Show, join forces under the Olympia roof.

Organisers Mash Media say Confex 2015 is set to attract more than 8,000 meetings and event professionals.

Following the popularity of technology sessions at the 2014 show, 2015 will see a Technology Theatre offering a big platform for getting the best advice on using the latest in technology to boost your event’s profile.

ASSOCIATION EVENTS FORUM International Confex will also host an Association Events Forum, part of the continued focus on attracting international and UK associations to the show.

The Forum will include a combination of invitations to exclusive events, networking opportunities and a programme of dedicated content designed to engage with association event planners. On Tuesday 17 February,

Conferences & Events

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMME Education and knowledge sharing within the industry are key elements of Confex and 2015 will be the most tailored programme to date. Across four theatres, show floor tours, campfire sessions and the new hands-on Technovation Station, Confex will be presenting a range of fresh ideas and innovative ways of thinking.

Along with keynote speakers, the innovation theatre will play host to a series of debates affecting the event industry. The first day will see the introduction of the 2015 Rugby World Cup and the opportunities available to destinations, venues and event suppliers followed by the Government’s perspective on the value that international events bring to the UK. On the second day the debates continue focusing on what the airline industry is doing to support the MICE industry, addressing the lack of quality hotels and service standards in the UK and the justification of corporate hospitality in today’s market.

CMP CAMPFIRE SESSIONS BY MPI Confex is proud to once again be working with MPI in 2015 and visitors to Confex can attend CMP Campfire sessions hosted

by MPI. These sessions will allow visitors access to ‘taster’ content from the Certified Meetings Professional (CMP) programme. The CMP programme is the foremost certification in the meetings industry and recognises individuals who have achieved the industry’s highest standard of professionalism.

EVENT IN SITU Another initiative, new for 2015, is the Event in Situ: a fully dressed event space and an event programme that showcases the best talent the UK has to offer.

The Event in Situ offers event companies a unique opportunity to showcase their products, services and talent, giving visitors 

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Conferences & Events

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

EVENT MANAGEMENT

Award-winning event management software

Dataflow Events builds and manages bespoke delegate registration platforms for events, conferences, meetings & exhibitions.

For further information, please visit us at stand number CF51, International Confex, Olympia, London, 18th-19th February 2015 or contact us below.

Paul Bradford Business Development Director Dataflow Events, 0208 544 7790 paul@dataflowevents.co.uk www.dataflowevents.co.uk

Shocklogic is passionate about supporting event organisers and always ensures they deliver the best events possible. Founded in 1997, the team is a unique mixture of technical experts and event specialists who have over 50 years of combined experience. The company has won many awards, including the recent Best Supplier Award for Excellence from The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers. Shocklogic’s extensive suite of online event management technology solutions and services includes: Participantlogic – registration management, including accommodation and online payments; Abstractlogic – scientific-abstract and programme management; Memberlogic – membership management, database, CRM; Mobapplogic – multiplatform mobile app builder; Onsitelogic – onsite registration & badges;

Scanlogic – barcoded badge scanning, access tracking & control, lead retrieval; Votelogic – voting & event audience response; Presenterlogic – digital signage, speaker preview room, digital content distribution; Eposterlogic – ePoster viewing system; Exhibitorlogic – exhibition management; Guestlistlogic – guest list management; Surveylogic – create surveys & questionnaires, collect feedback from audiences.

Shocklogic has a technology solution to meet every event need - Your Event, Our Passion.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.shocklogic.com

Scarab Sweepers is a global frontrunner in the design, manufacturing and supply of compact and truck-mounted road sweepers.

Scarab products are all designed and built to a high standard at our manufacturing headquarters in Kent, England.

Our truck-mount models are built on a vehicle manufacturers chassis of your choice from 7.5 tonne to 18+ tonne GVW. Operators can select the type of transmission and power delivery system that best suits their needs.Hopper capacities available from 5.2m3 to 8.2m3 fitted alongside water tanks between 900 and 4200 litres.

If you need something out of the ordinary our design team will work with you to build a bespoke sweeper to your requirements.

Tough on the Streets - Easy on the Environment www.scarab-sweepers.com

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EVENT PREVIEW or internal, this is a really important audience for Confex and EPS and one that is growing exponentially,” says Mash Media Group MD Julian Agostini.

“The role of the PA has evolved at a rapid rate over the last 20 years and PAs are now pivotal in the success of most businesses.”

Agostini added. “We want to recognise the increasing demands of this role and provide an event that reflects this.”

“We encourage industry professionals to get involved in the sector’s biggest trade show for UK professionals. With OMPA in the Confex portfolio, there is even more oomph to what promises to be another great event, showcasing the UK’s world‑leading events industry,” says Liz Agostini.

 hands on experiences to take into their next events. From staging, sound and lighting, table decorations and furniture to conference hosts celebrity speakers, musicians, comedians, entertainers and games hosts, there promises to be plenty to see, do and hear at the Event in Situ.

The programme offers a variety of sessions throughout the two days that can be open or closed, formal or informal, and with or without catering. Event suppliers and/or agencies wishing to take advantage of the opportunity to showcase their services or talent for new and prospective clients are encouraged to get in touch with the Confex team.

THE EVENTICE International Confex will again host The Eventice competition during next year’s show.

Run by ESP Recruitment, the ‘Apprentice’‑style competition allows final year event management students to compete for jobs in the industry.

During the competition, students will go head-to-head in a variety of challenges including video production and speed interviews, culminating in a panel presentation.

International Confex will set the scene for The Eventice grand finale, with the final five students making a presentation to a high-profile panel of industry experts.

The winners will be announced at Olympia London and offered a job on the spot.

So far two jobs have been confirmed; one will be at teambuilding specialists Bluehat Group, which is ready to mentor and take on one of the winners.

A second, international job, has also been confirmed to offer to one of the winners – Working as a Special Events Executive for DMG in Dubai and Abu Dhabi on a one-year contract working on some high profile events. The DMG offer comes with a salary and free accommodation for a year.

Liz Agostini said: “We are pleased to be hosting The Eventice at International Confex.

The quality of applicants has always been extremely high and we feel it is important for us as the UK’s flagship event to support this initiative and encourage graduate job placement within the industry.”

RUGBY WORLD CUP The Rugby World Cup, taking place in the UK next September, is one of the largest international sporting events in the world.

Working with Visit England, International Confex will be featuring the wealth of opportunities available for the events industry. There will be a Pavilion of venues involved in the Rugby World Cup on the show floor, content in the educational programme, with a number of surprise guests throughout the two days of the show.

AIM PAVILION Confex will feature a bigger AIM pavilion than before, with 12 accredited venues represented.

AIM accredited venues and service providers operate to a predetermined industry benchmarked standard. Meaning they have processes and personnel that are competent and capable and venue facilities are compliant, with legislation relevant to the operation of their business.

The show’s seminar programme will once again qualify for CPD learning points.

This accreditation means that attending seminars hosted in all theatres now counts towards delegates’ Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.

CO-LOCATION Mash Media has acquired the Office Management and PA Exhibition and Conference (OMPA) from Prysm Group.

The show, which has grown over the past two years and attracts over 3,000 PAs and office managers, will co-locate with Confex and the Event Production Show at Olympia London in 2015.

“With every PA now involved in running some kind of event, either external

Conferences & Events

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

EPS AND FEST FACTOR Organisers also reported the 2015 Event Production Show was 20 per cent ahead of target, month to month, as of 24 November, reflecting the show’s reputation as the premier place for the UK live sector to discover the industry’s most innovative trends, products and services. Offering organisers, promoters, brand managers and marketing agencies access to more exhibitors, seminars, networking and buying opportunities, the 2015 EPS is set to facilitate greater crossover and connections than ever. Also returning to EPS will be the popular Access Sessions.

The show will also have a new competition for 2015 aimed at festival organisers.

The ‘Fest Factor’ will invite candidates to pitch their ideas for new festivals or outdoor events in a series of 20-minute presentations covering their background, an overview of the proposed event(s) and business plan, including estimated costs. A panel of judges will then pose questions before deciding if and what level of investment to make.

“Essentially we wanted to create a forum to expose new ideas and new talent to the market,” said Liz Agostini. “The event industry is growing year on year and it’s important we provide opportunities to ensure fresh, innovative and unique ideas can be developed and brought to mass audiences.

We felt The Fest Factor would be a fun way to embrace and achieve this.” Agostini added that Mash Media are on the lookout for participants on both sides of the competition.

“If you have a concept for an entire festival or outdoor event, get in touch. Alternatively, if you have what it to takes to ask the tough questions and are willing to mentor applicants or even invest in their ideas, why not apply to join the judging panel?” she added.

The Fest Factor will be held on the Main Stage on the Thursday afternoon of the show.

International Confex, EPS and OMPA all take place at Olympia, London, 18-19 February 2015.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.international-confex.com

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www.wipro.com

SOME OF OUR KEY RECOGNITIONS ON OUR SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY

Member of Morgan Stanley Capital International Global Socially Responsible Investment and Global Sustainability index series Ranked #1 in 2013 Indian ranking of Climate Disclosure Leadership Index (CDLI) for the last two years

Wipro selected as Dow Jones Sustainability Index, World member for the 5th time in a row Also recognized as the Global Sector Leader for the Software & Services industry in year 2014

Selected as India’s Role Model Organization for the NCPEDP – Shell Helen Keller Awards 2013

Featured in the Greenpeace Cool IT Leaderboard rankings for the third consecutive year.

Ranked 5th in 2013

DO BUSINESS BETTER

Named as one of the World's Most Ethical Company by Ethisphere Institute for the third successive year in 2014

NASSCOM Corporate Award for Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion 2012

CONSULTING

| SYSTEM INTEGRATION | BUSINESS PROCESS SERVICES

LOCAL AUTHORITY IT

One in four councils have no strategic Westminster CIO role plan to bring further services online, merges Westminster City Council is set to lose its CIO role in an update of its says research by Eduserve shared services partnership with One in four (24 per cent) local government organisations has no strategic plan to bring services online, according to a survey of IT decision makers in local government

by IT services provider Eduserv.

Despite the local government services not being covered under the government’s Digital by Default strategy, many local authorities such as Camden Council are attempting to save money and improve services through their own digital strategies. according to Eduserv’s research, a lack of strategic focus and investment in IT capability is undermining the ability of local government to deliver online services. A survey conducted with senior decision makers in local government found that one in four (24 per cent) local government organisations had no strategic plan to bring services online.

The research did show an overwhelming support for the use of IT to improve and deliver Services (79 per cent), but over three quarters (77 per cent) of those responsible for delivering services said that a shortfall in investment is making it hard to do their job properly, and 76 per cent believe this lack of IT investment is currently undermining service delivery.

Andrew Hawkins, Eduserv’s Local Government Director said: “Councils appear to be playing catch-up in delivering services that meet the expectations of digital users. Whilst it

is disappointing that so many councils feel their current services are being undermined by a lack of investment in IT, it’s encouraging that they recognise this and want to use IT to improve future service delivery.

“It’s also encouraging that less than half the councils surveyed (48 per cent) felt the focus of IT should be on cutting costs, while in many cases moving services online or to the cloud can have financial benefits for the organisation its important this isn’t the key driver – the main priority should be on improving services for residents. Most councils seem to recognise this and now is the time for council leaders to deploy greater resources for a strategy to deliver READ MORE: the changes tinyurl.com/n86gse7 needed.”

HUMAN RESOURCES

DWP seeks Chief Technology Officer The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is looking for a new chief technology officer (CTO), who will report into the director general of technology Mayank Prakash.

A job advert states the role will be responsible for leading the technical strategy and architecture for DWP’s customer‑facing technology and public services.

The successful applicant will lead a team of more than 100 technology architects, and will need to understand and use the design principles outlined by the Government Digital Service (GDS) in creating digital public transactions.

The job advert states applicants would “naturally prioritie user needs over processes and tools,” suggesting the role would be focussed more on the business outcomes than the technology itself.

In the job advert, Prakash said the role is one of the most challenging and rewarding technology roles in the UK today.

“It requires an individual with a unique combination of credible leadership skills at a senior level and hands-on technical expertise to influence technology

design that affects millions of lives.

I joined DWP motivated by this opportunity to make a difference. I find myself working with a team of colleagues who trust each other and are determined to deliver critical next-generation national infrastructure.”

A DWP spokesperson added: “The post of chief technology officer will report directly to the director General of technology Mayank Prakash, as part of his executive team. This role will combine leadership and technology expertise to define the department’s next‑generation technology strategy, including supporting the design of high-quality digital services that focus on user needs.”

The role is currently being filled by Jon Ayre, who has been the CTO at DWP on an interim contract since August 2013. The role is now being advertised as a full‑time position. Shortly after the appointment of Ayre, the department appointed its first director general for digital transformation, with the job going to Kevin Cunnington.

The closing date for applications is Monday 26 READ MORE: January 2015. tinyurl.com/lgtn4av

GT News

IT & COMPUTNG FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR– www.governmenttechnology.co.uk

two other London authorities.

The council has had an interim CIO, Ben Goward, since June 2011, according to his LinkedIn profile, but the role will be deleted as of April this year.

Instead, Ed Garcez will become the single CIO for the tri-borough partnership established in December 2013 by Westminster, the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.

All three councils are cutting roles to reduce duplication, as they embark on a plan to share a single IT division.

A report stated: “The disconnect between the three sovereign ICT functions, each with their own processes, policies and procedures, is an unnecessary overhead introducing bureaucracy and cost, and sometimes even providing contradictory advice to service users.”

The boroughs believe scrapping these posts and relying on one IT department will save an annual £6.55 million from 2017/18. They claim to already be on track to save £3 million by 2015/16 thanks to IT services already being shared.

The new IT division will be led by six executives responsible for digital services, information management, operations and enterprise architecture among other things, costing a combined £143,000 to establish.

The report added the new model would enable greater co-operation between the trio of councils, as well as others who could benefit: “The proposed model has been designed to be inclusive and easy to extend to further partners, and there have already been some successes in establishing wider shared services and joint working.”

One example cited was a shared mobile device security solution with the boroughs of Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, Kingston, Lambeth and Sutton.

READ MORE: tinyurl.com/pujrdrp

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Case Study

IT & COMPUTING FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR – www.governmenttechnology.co.uk

Redcentric offers a compelling way forward with IT A few years ago, the public sector couldn’t buy a positive PR story about IT. Over-spending and over-running were the familiar criticisms, with enterprise suppliers being rewarded handsomely for not always delivering and government departments being regularly hauled over the coals by the National Audit Office. Fast forward to 2014 and it’s a much changed landscape, driven in part by the recent austerity era’s focus on real value-formoney and substantive savings; in part by the growing appreciation of Cloud computing; and in part by the overhaul of government IT procurement. The result? A leveling of the playing field which has encouraged SMEs to engage with the public sector on an unprecedented level; a new spirit of innovation and ‘can do’ thinking permeating across the sector; and more and more projects going live, but largely unheralded, that are delivering new services and greater value to UK citizens.

But there’s still so much more potential for IT as an enabler. Take data sharing and collaboration for instance. Everyone knows they should do more of it – it’s efficient, it saves money, it can unlock exciting new user services. But even if government is ready to shift away from its traditional ‘silo’ mindset, its IT infrastructure isn’t. And we’re not just talking different systems between

departments, we’re talking different systems in a single department – multiple segmented systems that are costly and complex to manage and maintain, are often inefficiently utilised, compounding the cost/waste issue, and worst of all, provide poor or sub-optimal environments for the sort of data sharing and collaboration projects now being championed.

But whereas in the old era enormous amounts of money and supplier resource would have been thrown at the problem over an inexcusably long period of time, today we have the means to effect change and create optimal environments quickly and affordably.

Thanks to the Digital Marketplace (formally G-Cloud), suddenly buyers have access to commoditised, fixed price solutions – tens of thousands of them in fact, solutions that leverage the Cloud to speed deployment and underpin flexibility, and give departments a real shot at getting the systems in place that will support, rather than stifle, their innovation.

The agility, accessibility and affordability of the SME proposition in this space are understandably attractive. The biggest barrier to making the final leap perhaps is the concern about supplier delivery and capability.

But the track record of the enterprise monoliths doesn’t offer much reassurance; if your chosen SME partner can demonstrate

success and performance, evidence its standards and accreditations, and offer you a compelling route forward, then where is the risk? Being stifled by an ageing, inflexible IT infrastructure is arguably a much greater risk.

Effective sharing and collaborating doesn’t just unlock operational efficiencies, it can stimulate transformational projects for the benefit of the citizenry. It would be a shame if supplier prejudice stifled their success.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.redcentricplc.com

REDCENTRIC.

PROVIDING CLARITY TO THE PUBLIC SECTOR THROUGH TRANSPARENT CLOUD SERVICES AND ADVICE. Redcentric is a leading UK managed services provider delivering innovative technology to improve productivity and efficiency. As an approved G-Cloud supplier, we’ve got experience of the framework since version 1 and a proven track record of implementing assured solutions to government organisations through G-Cloud.

Download our G-Cloud Buyers Guide for advice on using the framework www.redcentricplc.com/gcloud-buyers-guide.

0800 983 2522 info@redcentricplc.com www.redcentricplc.com Redcentric_Gov_Tech_OCT_14.indd 1

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08/09/2014 14:59

WHAT’S BIG IN 2015

MICRO TRENDS FOR THE NEW YEAR

Every year new technologies rise and fall; consumer attitudes and behaviours change; challenges and opportunities present themselves for businesses. The smart organisations are thinking one step ahead and keeping their eyes open to spot these changes before they happen. David Burgess of digital agency Reading Room looks at what’s going to be big in 2015 One of the big business challenges for the next few years will actually come from within.

A new generation, Generation Y, are now entering the workforce. The ‘millennials’ are used to a wholly different way of engaging with people and tasks to previous workforce generations. For them, email is no longer the default for communication, spreadsheets no longer the key way of managing workflow, and word processing not as important as blogging and online publishing. Organisations that have spent so many years adapting to the digital age will need to change again to accommodate these new attitudes and behaviours, or risk alienating (and not getting the best out of) their millennial workforce.

Examples of the type of innovation required might include social-style communication interfaces for work projects; collaborative, democratic online project management software; mobile-first systems for finance, timesheets, reporting or information sharing; and even adapting to the “always social” phenomenon of staying active on social media even when in the midst of workplace activities. Rather than resist, organisations must embrace change and address these issues in their strategic planning and technical infrastructure. The luddites risk missing the opportunity for efficiency, attracting talent and operating as an enterprise fit for 21st century success.

QUANTIFY THAT DRINK Meticulously recording every meal, run and bowel movement moves from Howard Hughes to High Street. Over the past few years apps and wearable tech from Nike, Run Keeper, my fitness pal and more have encouraged people to track everything from BMI to regularity of dreams. The latest iPhone and iOS bring this out of the realm of fitness fanatics and dieters and into the mainstream.

With support for ever more life logging in a completely passive and unobtrusive manner; from a device that lives, works and sleeps with you; intimate details of the nation’s day are being gladly exchanged with your social networks and by extension, with brands.

In return, you’ll feel connected with family and friends in an entirely new

relationship. And you will gladly pay for this connection with others by letting data analysts and planners see inside your day and start to change your experience of the web, tailoring it to the profile you have built through your lifelogging.

YEAR OF THE MICRO Micro animation interactions in the interface offer a much more smooth and considered approach - this cinematic production quality to information consumption will see an end to the current pump and dump approach of shoving information in front of a user in the current web sphere.

Micro screens will redefine how we develop our content: retina sharp images without the bandwidth bloat; highly optimised content for immediate Q&A scenario based interaction; effectively a content strategy approach ruthlessly streamlined to the effectiveness of a twitter conversation.

Micro optimisations for boosting performance will be the largest development change in 2015. Varying data speeds and need for timely information to interact with scenario based wearable technology, will require a level of optimisation going beyond the normal desktop, “load everything at the bottom”.

Coupling micro interactions, vector based imagery, reaction served content and just‑in‑time loading of required page components will offer performance gains in double digits.

COMMUNITY TROLL HUNTERS 2014 was a popular year for Trolls – with high profile court cases and media campaigns from people who have been abused on social networks including some highly unpleasant behaviour, often targeted at women, and including in extreme cases, death and rape threats. Some ISPs and Social Networks have been slow to respond to this and have either claimed it’s not something they can police, or they have acted but in a cack-handed way: Facebook’s poorly thought-through enforcement of its ‘real names’ policy being case in point. The issue of trolling poses an increasingly serious threat to the success of social platforms with entire segments of

users being chased off certain networks or even being put off social media altogether.

These users will not come back. Brands also are starting to see association with social channels as more risky due partly to a never ending stream of negative news stories associated with social media trolling. In 2015 the networks have to respond or they will face an exodus of users to other platforms that take the issues seriously and have worked out how to control the trolls. The answer to this challenge may lie in the strength of the communities themselves to ‘self police’.

Government Technology

IT & COMPUTNG FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR– www.governmenttechnology.co.uk

CONTENT STRATEGY AND UX FOR VOICE INTERACTIONS As increasing numbers of voice interfaces emerge, especially in the wearables/Internet of Things space, more and more focus will be aimed at how people and technology interact through such things as verbal commands and personal assistants. Take for example the new Moto Hint that reads your emails to you via an ear bud and runs on an O/S that responds to voice commands.

For years, Call Centres have placed great emphasis on the accents of their staff, placing different product and service call centres in different places depending on people’s stereotypical perceptions.

Extrapolating from this, how do we localise content spoken by machines across different regions and languages? What cultural considerations do we need to take into account when designing a voice interface, how do we incorporate commands alongside conversations and introduce them into home situations? And how will people respond psychologically to objects that speak and act independently?

BLURRED LINES The online and offline environments have never been more blurred together. Almost every human activity whether work or leisure has a connected element to it.

Joggers map their runs. Football stadiums have wifi-ed up. Shops have their own hashtags and selfie-spots. Not only has tweeting and instagramming from live events (or just anywhere) become standard, but places that used to be immune to the ubiquitous pervasion of online life have given in. At conferences you’re no longer told to turn your phone off, you’re told to turn them on and get tweeting.

2015 could be the year when places such as retailers and tourist destinations finally figure out how to truly enrich people’s experiences (and make money out of them) by using mobile technology. L ABOUT THE AUTHOR David Burgess is managing director of Reading Room, an international award‑winning digital agency.

For further information visit www.readingroom.com

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IT SOLUTIONS

ICT

XMA and Viglen develop, deliver and maintain innovative IT solutions that enhance how people learn, teach, govern, deliver healthcare and do business.

They have are a team of over 500 specialists, based across the UK in a business that has over 70 years combined experience, with strong roots and a deep understanding of the markets in which they work. As part of an independently owned British group, XMA and Viglen have strength and stability with nimbleness and an entrepreneurial spirit that challenge traditional approaches.

Principle offices are in London, Reading and Nottingham with regional bases in Altrincham, Halifax, Glasgow and Cwmbran.

They have national reach and a local touch. XMA and Viglen are proud to have onshore UK

You can’t predict when or how your citizens will try to interact with you but you can ensure that you deliver the round-the-clock service that they expect and provide them with the information that they need, even if an emergency means that you’re required to handle thousands of enquiries at the same time.

“Communications Integration”™ is the principle through which Content Guru is revolutionising citizen-facing interactions. Its cloud-based storm® platform integrates multi-channel communications with public sector information systems, seamlessly feeding relevant data into and out from both automated and human interactions and providing an efficient, centralised hub which instantly connects citizens, staff and information, breaking down the traditional siloes of data which can stifle the effectiveness

XMA and Viglen – a Handling unstructured compliant route to purchase demand in the public sector

manufacturing facilities and world class vendor partnerships, with broad service delivery capabilities on the ground and in the cloud.

XMA and Viglen are a compliant route to purchase, with presence on local and national frameworks for hardware, software, supplies and services. Accreditations with BSI - ISO 9001, 14001, 20000-1 and 27001 - are a hallmark of excellence and demonstrate our focus on meeting quality, environmental, service and information security management standards.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0115 8464000 www.xma.co.uk

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

Xerox offers a wide range of scanners that cover all Workflow segments – Mobility, Desktop, Workgroup, Network and A3 production. Some of the benefits which set the company apart from its competitors are ease-of-use, flexibility and value for money.

Xerox Scanners have recently been named as “Company of the Year” for its line of Xerox DocuMate® scanners by Document Manager Magazine, who also selected the Xerox DocuMate 5445 as its Workgroup Imaging Product of the Year, making this the 4th award the scanner has won.

The impressive software packages included with the range include functions such as: Visioneer OneTouch: an easy to use utility that connects the buttons on the DocuMate scanner with a powerful set of scanner settings – so that with one touch, the document is scanned to popular destinations.

Visioneer Acuity uses advanced algorithms and dynamic

Across government it is becoming clear that information and how we use it is the key to providing intelligent services that are responsive to a changing population with diverse needs.

If information is made available digitally then it can drive significant increases in productivity. Digital information can be shared securely and leveraged far better than a stack of paper sitting on a shelf.

Leading document management company, MISL Limited, is pioneering a new approach to the digital challenge by providing a complete solution. The best approach varies according to the organisational context. Scanning everything might be the best approach or maybe the focus should be on selectively scanning some records while storing others

Xerox® DocuMate® – award winning scanners

thresholding, which enables your scanner to instantly improve the visual clarity of every document that you scan. The technology behind Acuity is clever, but for the user it’s simple to achieve crystal clear results with the touch of a button.

Nuance OmniPage Pro provides a precise OCR and layout retention solution, quickly turning scanned documents into editable, formatted text.

PDF Converter creates industrystandard PDF files from virtually any PC application instantly Office Gemini Dokmee Capture production scanning software provides all the features required for document capture, processing and reporting.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0870 774 4480 www.xeroxscanners.co.uk

Products & Services

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

of your citizen services.

This enables citizens to selfservice through the channels of their choice, whether through automated SMS updates on roadworks, real-time web chat on paying taxes, automated out-ofhours voice prompts for finding out opening hours, email to track case progress, or social media to feedback on new services.

Through its work with a variety of public sector bodies, from local authorities through to central government departments and agencies, Content Guru is spearheading this multi-channel revolution to end the challenges of unstructured demand.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01344 852 350 info@contentguru.com www.contentguru.com

MSIL document management mantra - Your data, your way

and focussing more on capturing information digitally at source.

MISL provides a range of services from storage and large volume scanning to day forward document capture.

MISL also offers a state of the art, secure, EDRM system that can be provided via the cloud or installed on your servers. This includes the management of paper file locations with tablet based access to information.

Your move to digital, with MISL’s help, can deliver huge benefits in a cost effective way. MISL’s mantra is simple: Your data, your way.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01992 470 060 www.misl.co.uk

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Products & Services

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

Government departments and agencies need to manage incoming paper and electronic information, documents and data to be efficient and streamline business processes.

Document Logistix has twenty years’ experience providing document management solutions to suit government offices, both off-the-shelf and tailored to the way you do business.

The company’s government document management technology helps with information capture, imaging, storage, sharing, retrieval and retention.

Its solutions also enable customers to review and optimise their workflow using simple drag and drop techniques that require no programming expertise.

Government knowledge workers typically gain back the day they lose using less effective systems, and more if they are currently paper based.

Most importantly, the company will listen to your needs and

Businesses everywhere are increasingly reliant on data. Indeed, organisations are giving increasing management time to how they safeguard this most prized of assets.

They know that they require their data to be stored and managed safely and securely and in a way that complies with the latest legislative directives whilst at the same time observing budgetary pressure to keep costs to a minimum.

Hugh Morell spent two years researching this business sector during which time he visited data management centres up and down the UK; he wanted to ensure his business would provide the right products and services to the right customers at the right price and for the business to be the best that the industry had to offer.

It was in 2009 that he established IDSL – now a leading supplier within the Electronic Document Management sector with five years continued growth and 20 years expert industry knowledge and experience in all areas of the

Government document management solutions

objectives and help you to find the right solution to manage your documents for internal and external system users.

Think about the future. If you are looking for an integration partner and document management software specialist, choose one that allows you to make changes in the future. Government agencies and departments naturally change systems periodically, for budget or performance reasons, or to standardise platforms after a merger or rationalisation. Document Manager integrates with other leading systems and allows you the freedom to migrate in future.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01908 366 388 info@document-logistix.com www.document-logistix.com

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

Today too many business processes rely on people being in their offices to receive and ink-sign paper documents.

This slow and traditional approach does not meet the demands of modern interconnected businesses looking for lowest cost, low carbon, fast, efficient and secure solutions.

Ascertia changes this paradigm and provides secure document workflow and digital signature approval using its SigningHub service or on-premise product.

Business processes need not be delayed anymore – documents can be securely reviewed and approved from anywhere.

SigningHub simplifies the approval process for quotes, orders, agreements, any sensitive documents, HR and compliance documents; in fact anything requiring secure review and a signature. Documents can be digitally signed by anyone you know, at any time, from anywhere using laptops, iPads,

Cognitronics is a British Company specialising in automated business solutions by utilising data capture software technology and if required scanning equipment.

Cognitronics has been providing solutions to its customers for well over 30 years, including invoice processing; classification and indexing; BACS reconciliation; payment processing; voucher redemption; structured/semistructured form processing and other such applications.

The solutions will take your business critical data from paper documents, fax and email (including attachments) and export validated captured data to your information management system, quickly and reliably, allowing you to optimise your business performance and in most cases, show a significant return on

SigningHub – the most secure way to sign

106

IDSL – expert data capture and conversion services

phones and other mobile devices.

SigningHub delivers the assured authenticity, privacy and data integrity needed to meet internal controls requirements. It also provides traceability and audit services to meet legislative and regulatory requirements.

Beyond its obvious green credentials, the savings are substantial when compared with the costs of printing, sending, scanning, faxing, courier charges, plus any resends, errors, omissions etc. SigningHub frees people to do more business rather than wasting their time chasing paper.

FURTHER INFORMATION info@ascertia.com www.ascertia.com

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.1

Document Management sector, ranging from simple box storage to all paper & film based media scanning to online & server based document management systems to certified data destruction.

Operating from bases throughout Britain, IDSL now provides clients with the latest contemporary and economically dependable form of outsourcing available. The firm is capable of assisting any company or organisation with the installation, revising and coordination of their document and data workflow systems. IDSL has the experience to deal with all sizes and kinds of data capture and conversion projects.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.idsl.org.uk Tel: 0800 334 5792

Automated business solutions from Cognitronics

investment within 12-18 months.

All solutions are based on proven core software platforms developed by Cognitronics developers, with each solution modified to fulfil your exact requirements and more.

The emphasis placed on fast, efficient responses and short lines of communications has earned a reputation for excellence in the customer support role and this, coupled with providing outstanding value for money will remain a priority within the company’s operations in the future.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01909 477272 www.cognitronics.co.uk

RISK MANAGEMENT

DEBT RECOVERY

secure system for creating, storing and accessing your Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plans or assistance migrating from a legacy platform, Savant’s team of experienced software professionals can help.

Savant’s Mataco business continuity system ensures that an organisation’s business critical data is easily accessed from anywhere at any time. Secure remote hosting with easy access from internet and/or mobile devices ensures you always have the information you need at your fingertips. Migration services can help you move smoothly and seamlessly from your ‘out of support’ legacy system to a new system, providing peace of mind and future proofing for your business. Software development is Savant’s core specialism - it has experience developing and

Face2Face Contact is the expert in the management of a wide range of specialist field-visiting services, including vacant property checks, property assessments and information gathering, account rehabilitation, financial means-testing, commercial site surveys, document exchange and licence checks.

Using a combination of the company’s bespoke External Visit Application system, latest handheld technologies and agent management systems, Face2Face Contact provides a secure and reliable end-to-end service over the life cycle of its clients’ accounts.

Face2Face Contact works in partnership with all of its clients, integrating and complementing each of their processes with its own while offering complete understanding of, and compliance with, any industry regulations.

Risk management software Face2Face Contact – for when you need the right solutions you can trust Whether people in the right places you need a maintaining business critical software systems for the public sector. The company’s expertise enables it to deliver software on schedule and to budget time after time. 24/7 support services for business critical systems are also offered.

Savant has been in business for 30 years delivering the very best in software solutions. It works closely with clients to ensure that it understands their requirements and prides itself on delivering cost effective, quality solutions to help clients deliver a successful, profitable business.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01524 784400 Email: salesandmarketing@ savant.co.uk www.savant.co.uk

RISK MANAGEMENT

Products & Services

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

The company provides a solution which safeguards your reputation with a focus on speed, accuracy, security and quality – all resulting in improved performance for its clients.

Face2Face Contact can provide full UK coverage on both residential and commercial sites. Its highly trained internal staff and field representatives manage high volumes of work on a daily basis, within strict service levels.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01789 413710 a.flynn@face2facecontact.co.uk www.face2facecontact.co.uk

SECURITY

Improving IT efficiency and Your one-stop-shop for ROI whilst reducing risk security consumables

Take control of Database, Server & Application monitoring, maintenance & administration with WellData’s specialist IT Support Services. With one of the largest support teams in the UK, WellData guarantees systems are constantly running at optimum levels, for less than the cost of in-house staff.

Keeping up with the ever evolving IT world is a daunting task, one which requires dedication, expertise and experience. By employing WellData, Public Sector organisations benefit from a vast knowledge base, years of hands on experience, and continuous staff training & development, ensuring a level of technical and professional ability which is difficult to replicate.

WellData has been working alongside Government and Private

Sector organisations since 1999 and continually strives to reduce the risk associated with IT operation, administration and expenditure.

As well as being an Oracle and Microsoft partner, WellData has held ISO accreditations in Information Security, IT Service Management and Quality Management for six consecutive years, making them an IT Service provider you can trust.

With guaranteed response times, improvements in service and efficiency, and low cost, unlimited, all-inclusive flexible contracts - the decision to switch to WellData should be an easy one.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 8247 4462 enquiries@welldata.co.uk www.welldata.co.uk

Access Cards is a one-stop-shop for all security consumables.

Access Cards supplies at discounted rates cards from manufacturers such as HID, TDSI and Paxton as well as all ribbon cartridges from leading printer manufacturers, NHS logoed lanyards and Yo-yo reels.

Healthcare environments present particular challenges for security and facilities teams managing access for temporary staff, particularly when those staff are playing a critical patient care role. Access Cards responds to your last minute requirements efficiently with same day and next day deliveries either to your office or directly to new members of staff. Templates for

different departments are created and Access Cards holds agreed amounts of pre-printed cards.

This approach not only improves efficiencies but reduces costs for clients by more than 20 per cent.

Access Cards guarantees to identify and supply any card.

If you are not sure what card technology is used on your estate then call Access Cards or send a sample card to Access Cards, 25 Southampton Buildings, London, WC2A 1Al for identification and estimate quoting your name, organisation and email address.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0203 151 0200 www.accesscards.co.uk

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Products & Services

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

Xerox DocuMate – award winning scanners ®

Xerox offers a wide range of scanners that cover all Workflow segments – Mobility, Desktop, Workgroup, Network and A3 production. Some of the benefits which set the company apart from its competitors are ease-of-use, flexibility and value for money.

Xerox Scanners have recently been named as “Company of the Year” for its line of Xerox DocuMate® scanners by Document Manager Magazine, who also selected the Xerox DocuMate 5445 as its Workgroup Imaging Product of the Year, making this the 4th award the scanner has won.

The impressive software packages included with the range include functions such as: Visioneer OneTouch: an easy to use utility that connects the buttons on the DocuMate scanner with a powerful set of scanner settings – so that with one touch, the document is scanned to popular destinations.

Visioneer Acuity uses advanced algorithms and dynamic

®

thresholding, which enables your scanner to instantly improve the visual clarity of every document that you scan.

The technology behind Acuity is clever, but for the user it’s simple to achieve crystal clear results with the touch of a button.

Nuance OmniPage Pro provides a precise OCR and layout retention solution, quickly turning scanned documents into editable, formatted text.

PDF Converter creates industrystandard PDF files from virtually any PC application instantly Office Gemini Dokmee Capture production scanning software provides all the features required for document capture, processing and reporting.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0870 774 4480 www.xeroxscanners.co.uk

OUTDOOR PLAY

Outdoor clothing for children of all ages

As the importance of outdoor play once again dominates the headlines, enabling children to enjoy the many benefits of outdoor play or ‘green exercise’ remains the motivation behind Kozi Kidz’ advanced range of outdoor clothing. Designed to enable children to play outdoors in all conditions, Kozi Kidz’ awardwinning PU range offers 100 per cent protection from wind and rain.

Perfectly suited to use in nurseries, pre-schools or forest school environments, Kozi Kidz has introduced the colourful and practical Essential Rain Sets.

Each set is made from stretchy PU fabric and is 100 per cent waterproof to 5,000mm for complete peace of mind that the wearer will remain warm and dry.

Advanced features including fully welded seams and a robust, poppered storm flap ensure that even the smallest droplet of water won’t seep through. Designed by experts in Scandinavia each Essential Rain Set also benefits from a peaked hood that offers

optimal vision and weather protection around the face. For a comfortable and secure fit, the trousers feature adjustable, clipoff braces as well as foot stirrups that can be secured under a boot.

Kozi Kidz is also firmly focused on the child’s safety, adding crucial features such as reflectors for increased visibility and a detachable hood.

FURTHER INFORMATION Visit Kozi Kidz at the Education Show 2015, stand H10 or visit the website: www.kozikidz.com

TELEMATICS

URBAN REGENERATION

Independent, expert advice on Telematics

Leading the way towards a ‘zero waste’ future

Telematics Consultancy Services provides services for companies planning to implement vehicle tracking and telematics solutions.

If you have a vehicle fleet, chances are you are either thinking of implementing a Telematics solution or have an existing system in place and want to understand if it is delivering operational efficiencies or a return on investment.

As telematics solutions become more advanced the choice can be overwhelming. Implementing a solution right first time is critical.

The key to telematics making a change in fleet performance from either an operational or financial requirement is to initially define your needs and the key objectives of your fleet. This is just the starting point and at this stage benchmarks

Leafield Environmental is an award-winning UK designer and manufacturer of plastic recycling, litter, grit bins and bollards, with over 20 years’ experience. The company delivers consistent, high quality, tailor-made recycling and highway solutions for local and parish councils, healthcare, education and other public sector services. All products are designed and manufactured under one roof by skilled designers and engineers with a strong commitment to improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

Leafield’s new bespoke designs include a revamp of its best-selling Heritage Square litter bin with a new signage kit, to provide flexible poster space for community campaigns, special events or advertising. The company has also launched a stylish multi-waste recycling range in collaboration with Bath Spa University for its newly developed halls of residence.

A unique anti-microbial pedal

of performance can be created for critical ongoing measurements of operational and financial benefits.

Telematics Consultancy Services helps companies achieve this by providing independent expert advice from initial ideas through to implementation.

If you are just thinking about what telematics can do for you, Telematics Consultancy Services can help define your company’s objectives, document your requirements, identify suppliers and verify their proposals, project manage your implementation and review progress against the original objectives. A right first time approach.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.telematicsconsultancyservices.co.uk info@telematicsconsultancyservices.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.1

operated bin which meets the cleanliness and infection control regulations in the health industry has recently been designed and Leafield’s bollards range includes both modern and traditional styles, road sign bollards and night owl traffic bollards.

A personalisation service to include bespoke branding, straplines and logos etc is also offered.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01225 816500 comms@leafieldenvironmental.com www.leafield-environmental.com

Posters used for illustrative purposes only

HEALTH & SAFETY

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

ActiveSHE is a lifecycle system that actively manages all aspects of your proactive and reactive safety, health and environmental operations.

With powerful and interactive workflow management, reporting and analysis capability, the fully featured web-based system addresses both leading and lagging indicators.

From behavioural safety and occupational health to audits and site inspections, its exceptional scope enhances, supports and optimises SHE strategies, policies, procedures and activities across the board.

Simple to implement and easy to use, ActiveSHE provides peace of mind and productivity. It plays a key role in ensuring and evidencing legal compliance, minimising personal and corporate risk and responsibility, and drives productive

For over twenty years, Rapierstar has led the market in the design development and supply of technically advanced fixings and building maintenance solutions, to both trade and industry throughout the UK and beyond.

Rapierstar has maintained its reputation via a proven combination of innovative and cost effective solutions, comprehensive stockholding and exceptional quality – exceeding UK and EU standards.

A leading, in-house development and test facility and prompt delivery capability, all combine to give Rapierstar customers outstanding levels of service.

The award-winning specialist screws and fasteners include the STARPVCU carbon steel and corrosion resistant stainless steel window screws, STARFIX plug-free masonry fixings and STARTURN universal timber screws to name a few. Many of the specialist wood and masonry screws feature the patented STARFORM thread,

ActiveSHE helps drive profitable operations

and profitable business operations.

It is also a superb resource for tender responses, with any required information effortlessly collated.

ActiveSHE – a product developed by measure2improve.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01884 841884 www.measure2improve.co.uk

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

Government document management solutions Government departments and agencies need to manage incoming paper and electronic information, documents and data to be efficient and streamline business processes.

Document Logistix has twenty years’ experience providing document management solutions to suit government offices, both off-the-shelf and tailored to the way you do business.

The company’s government document management technology helps with information capture, imaging, storage, sharing, retrieval and retention.

Its solutions also enable customers to review and optimise their workflow using simple drag and drop techniques that require no programming expertise.

Government knowledge workers typically gain back the day they lose using less effective systems, and more if they are currently paper based.

Most importantly, the company will listen to your needs and

objectives and help you to find the right solution to manage your documents for internal and external system users.

Think about the future. If you are looking for an integration partner and document management software specialist, choose one that allows you to make changes in the future. Government agencies and departments naturally change systems periodically, for budget or performance reasons, or to standardise platforms after a merger or rationalisation. Document Manager integrates with other leading systems and allows you the freedom to migrate in future.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01908 366 388 info@document-logistix.com www.document-logistix.com

Building maintenance solutions from Rapierstar

Products & Services

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

which lowers drive in torque and reduces assembly time – without pre-drilling.

Latest products include PROSHIELD™, a water repellent environmentally friendly masonry treatment that is quick and easy to apply. It penetrates to provide breathable, invisible protection from damaging water ingress.

As well as maintaining building structures, it has the added advantage of increasing the thermal efficiency of treated homes – at a fraction of the cost of more elaborate solutions.

FURTHER INFORMATION info@rapierstar.com www.rapierstar.com

DESIGN & BUILD

Child safe paint, stains and lacquers from Spectral Formerly known as West Country Finishes, Spectral Coatings specialises in the manufacture of non-toxic child safe paint, stains and lacquers.

The company’s products offer a range of benefits including: non-toxicity; non-flammability; low odour; higher solids levels with faster drying times; ease of use, and; quality of finish.

The company prides itself on giving a first class service, and the products speak for themselves when it comes to their ease of use and the simplicity of washing all equipment out in water.

All products in the bright colour range are high opacity waterbased acrylic paints and stains, and are by far the most popular and versatile products.

As such they are the number one choice of the toymaker, craft worker, concrete garden ornament manufacurer and Design and Technology teacher.

They are ideal for use on MDF, soft and hardwoods,

styrofoam, plywoods, resins etc.

They give a semi gloss finish and can be overcoated with Gloss Lacquer to give a high build gloss finish if required.

The BS penetrating bright water stains are manufactured as a concentrate, meaning you simply dilute with water until you achieve the colour strength you require. They will not leach or bleed. The company also supplies the new EN71/3 Certificate.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.spectralcoatings.co.uk spectralcoatings@btconnect.com Tel: 01626 867973

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Advertisers Index

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

SW Locums Recruitment of temporary/permanent staff, Specialist Recruitment Qualified/Unqualified Social Workers Occupational Therapists, Housing Specialists, Revenue & Council Tax officers and Administrators Approved Supplier to over 50 nationwide Local Authority contracts, including; Hertfordshire, Kent, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Enfield, the whole of London and more.

Email a copy of your latest CV today. (Term-time only)

T: 01920 823775 M: 07545 696819 Email: swood@swlocums.com www.swlocums.com

ADVERTISERS INDEX

The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service Access Control Technology 69 Access Credit Management 28 Access Security Cards 107 Andreas Stihl 50 Antalis 76 Ascertia 106 Bateaux London 92 BBA Energy 54 Blue Fin Venue 86 Box-IT UK 49 BPF British Plastic Federation 12 Brugg Pipesystems 65 BW Legal 30 Carat A Division of NS&I IFC Cardinus Risk Management 74 Centerprise International 68 Chas 2013 58 Chelsea Physic Garden 92 Cirrus Research 74 Cognitronics 106 Constant & Company 30 Content Guru 105 Corporate Risk 35 Crystal Curtains 52 Direct Telecom Services 66 DMS Protective Equipment 104

110

Document Logistix 106 Epicuro 60 Eurisko 16 Face 2 Face Contact 107 Fibre Grid 74 Fibre Technologies IBC Ford 10 Frontier Software 14 G.F. Smith 80 Gemserv 64 Green Office Supplies 84 Hayter BC HCL Tehcnologies 22 Herbert Berger at Innholders 90 Heritage Envelopes 80 Holland Bulb Market B.V 52 Inoxantua 73 Intelligent Telematics 40 International (Digital Solutions) 106 Itrinegy 24 Johnson and Starley 64 Judge & Priestley 26 Kozi Kidz 108 Kyocera Document Solutions 8, 16, 25, 49, 83 Lamport Gilbert 82

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.1

Leafield Environmental 108 Lexis Nexis 18 London Event Operations 98 MAG:NET Solutions 30 Magic Internet 39 Mapei UK 62 Mash Media 94 Measure 2 Improve 109 Melia Whitehouse Hotel 92 MISL 46 My School Awards 30 Nissan 36 Oryx Align 24 Paperline 71 Parseq 44 Premier Guarantee 56 Proludic 13 Rapierstar 109 Reade Signs 38 Rebo BV 54 Redcentric 102 Reintec 70 Restore 48 Risk Management 35 Rivo Software 34 Savant 107 Scarab Sweepers 96

Shocklogic 96 Sign 2000 78 Software For People 16 Source That 82 Spearhead Machinery 52 Spectral Coatings 109 Spence & Partners 20 St Martin-In-The-Fields 93 STIKI 34 Summit Energies 54 Sunedison UK 64 Suregreen 52 SW Locums 110 Telematics Consultancy 42, 108 The National Plant and Equipment Register 42 The Senator Group 6 Thistle Marble Arch Hotel 88 Trinity House 93 Vantage Point Group 96 Venus Business 20 WellData 107 Wilo UK 72 WIPRO 100 Xerox Scanners 105 XMA 105

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