Earlier this year, NGED, the DNO which manages electricity distribution in the south midlands, Wales and the southwest of the UK, published the statement below on their website: “The way we charge for some of our larger connections quotes is changing from 1 April 2024. Customers seeking quotations for connections
The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) held a celebration lunch on 23rd May to commemorate the completion of its first BCIA Inspired Leaders programme. The initiative, started in February 2024 and developed in partnership with Inspired Leadership Solutions, was aimed at developing existing and future leaders in the BEMS industry.
Watts Roofing Supplies is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Oadby Building Products Limited (OBP), marking a significant milestone in our company’s growth and expansion efforts. OBP will complement Watts’ existing offerings and enhance our product range, expertise, and customer base. The OBP brand will remain intact, continuing to operate
Key Takeaways: Skyrocketing construction costs and tighter deadlines demand peak efficiency. But how do you achieve that when the industry itself is grappling with a digital shift? The answer lies in a strategic arsenal of IT services. These services are no longer just conveniences; they’re the cornerstones of success in
Key Takeaways: Are you feeling overwhelmed by keeping up with the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape? Running a business is demanding enough, and managing complex IT security can feel like a constant uphill battle. Outsourcing IT security offers a powerful solution. By collaborating with a dedicated team of IT security
Earlier this year, NGED, the DNO which manages electricity distribution in the south midlands, Wales and the southwest of the UK, published the statement below on their website: “The way we charge for some of our larger connections quotes is changing from 1 April 2024. Customers seeking quotations for connections greater than 250kVa at high voltage will be required to pay for them when they are issued” DNOs have always been entitled to charge for grid connection applications but have historically avoided doing so. As demand for new and larger grid connections has increased in line with the electrification of industry and the rapid deployment of renewable energy systems, it seemed almost inevitable that DNOs would start charging at some point. How much the charges will be remains to be seen, and there is no standard answer because charges vary by area within DNO regions and the type and size of the application. Charges are likely to be linked the kVA size but also to the amount of work the DNO must do to create the grid offer for the customer, meaning larger connections could see significant sums needing to be paid. NGED is the first DNO to introduce charges for commercial grid applications and it makes sense from their perspective. The volume of connection applications has increased tenfold over the last 5 years and, since not all applications proceed to connection, the DNOs have incurred significant costs, which they have passed on to all electricity consumers. The introduction of grid connection application charges should limit the number of speculative applications and reduce overall costs. But for building and renewable energy project developers looking for suitable sites, where a suitably sized grid connection is essential, the new charging regime will be highly detrimental. Fortunately for project developers, of any kind, Vattenfall IDNO’s new Grid Connection Consultancy service provides a way to minimize costs and avoid being charged wherever possible. Vattenfall IDNO is an Independent Distribution Network Operator, meaning the company can connect projects anywhere in the UK. As an IDNO Vattenfall can also adopt some of the essential infrastructure that is required for large, commercial grid connections, and will pay developers an Asset Adoption Value for these, which directly reduces grid connection costs for the developer. To support developers further, Vattenfall has now developed a data platform to help clients understand where, and how much, grid capacity is available across the UK. By working with Vattenfall developers can avoid the need for multiple speculative connections in different parts of the UK – and the associated costs which DNOs might charge and get real time assessments of the available capacity at their preferred project locations before submitting applications. Vattenfall IDNO will also pay any grid connection application charges upfront on behalf of the developer, further assisting cashflow, and will only charge a developer if the project does not go ahead. At the moment NGED have limited the charges to larger schemes of 22kV and above, stating: “We will review the success or otherwise of our targeted approach which will inform our decision on the application of connection offer expenses in the future.” Whatever they decide in the future it seems that grid connection application charges are set to stay and that it is only a matter of time before the other DNOs follow suit and introduce their own charges per region. Understanding the variable nature and timing of the introduction of these costs will create additional work for developers, further highlighting the benefits of working with a grid connections specialist, like Vattenfall IDNO, who can manage part, or the whole process, of securing a grid connection on behalf of clients so they can concentrate on what they do best – building the infrastructure for a net zero future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) held a celebration lunch on 23rd May to commemorate the completion of its first BCIA Inspired Leaders programme. The initiative, started in February 2024 and developed in partnership with Inspired Leadership Solutions, was aimed at developing existing and future leaders in the BEMS industry. The event saw the first 14 selected delegates come together, along with BCIA President Stacey Lucas and former President Graeme Rees, who oversaw the development of the programme during his tenure. Led by Michael Holbrow, a professional coach, mentor, and facilitator who has spent more than three decades in the building controls industry, the programme was the result of a training gap identified during the development of the BCIA’s corporate plan. During this, it was discovered that people development and leadership training was suffering due to the pace of the market. In fact, it was found that often companies would be struggling to recruit and not able to set time aside to concentrate on people development. The 16-week programme comprised of six modules that were designed to change the way in which individuals in the BEMS sector might approach situations, whether that’s how they lead teams and client projects or understand the benefits of self-leadership. As a result of the industry-centric leadership training programme, the delegates were able to truly grasp and understand the challenges and opportunities of leading within the BEMS industry. BCIA President Stacey Lucas was delighted with the success of the programme, saying: “The delegates really sank their teeth into the programme and have taken so much out of it. Michael was a brilliant coach and really helped those taking part to embrace the potential for leadership roles in the building controls sector and understand how to overcome any challenges along the way. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Watts Roofing Supplies is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Oadby Building Products Limited (OBP), marking a significant milestone in our company’s growth and expansion efforts. OBP will complement Watts’ existing offerings and enhance our product range, expertise, and customer base. The OBP brand will remain intact, continuing to operate independently from its site. About Oadby Building Products Limited Founded in 2008 by Mehul Somani, OBP has been a trusted name in the supply of building products to various sectors, including Newbuild, Selfbuild, Social Housing, and Domestic Refurbishment and Maintenance. The company began as Oadby Building Plastics and expanded significantly after moving to a purpose-built 25,000 square foot warehouse and office space in January 2014, located on Kenilworth Drive in the Oadby industrial estate. OBP is renowned for its exceptional customer service and comprehensive product range. The company offers express service at its trade counter and a convenient multi-vehicle free delivery service. With a wealth of industry knowledge and a commitment to finding cost-effective solutions for projects of all sizes, OBP stands as a one-stop shop for building products. Simon Lock, the manager at OBP, brings 26 years of industry experience, having progressed from a yard person at Asphaltic to his current role. His 11-year tenure at OBP has been marked by his extensive knowledge and dedication to the company. About Watts Roofing Supplies Founded in 2010, Watts Roofing Supplies is one of the fastest-growing independent roofing merchants in Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire. The company grew from a single branch in Baldock covering the local area to a three-branch roofing merchant with hundreds of suppliers and many happy long-term customers. It currently has branches in Baldock, Stevenage, and Cambridge. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Key Takeaways: Skyrocketing construction costs and tighter deadlines demand peak efficiency. But how do you achieve that when the industry itself is grappling with a digital shift? The answer lies in a strategic arsenal of IT services. These services are no longer just conveniences; they’re the cornerstones of success in today’s competitive landscape. That said, this guide cuts through the clutter, focusing on the essential IT services that empower modern construction firms. It will explore how service providers can streamline workflows, boost collaboration, and ultimately, build a foundation for project success. Project Management Software Imagine juggling blueprints, managing budgets, and coordinating subcontractors – all while ensuring every detail falls into place. That’s the daily reality for project managers in today’s construction industry. Thankfully, they’re no longer going it alone. Software like Procore and Buildertrend acts as a digital foreman, overseeing projects from start to finish. These platforms foster seamless collaboration, keeping everyone – from architects to electricians – in the loop with real-time updates. But the best tools need a skilled technician. Partnering with specialized IT support, such as Revotech’s Vancouver IT support team, is like having a dedicated IT guy on-site. They ensure your software runs smoothly, maximizing its potential and keeping your projects on track, on budget, and most importantly, stress-free. Building Information Modeling (BIM) BIM has revolutionized the way construction projects are planned and executed. Software like Autodesk Revit allows construction firms to create and manage digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of buildings. This enhanced visualization capability enables better coordination among architects, engineers, and construction teams, significantly reducing errors and rework. BIM also facilitates improved planning and decision-making by providing detailed insights into every aspect of the project. Cloud Computing The adoption of cloud computing has become indispensable for modern construction firms. Utilizing cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure allows firms to store and process vast amounts of project data remotely. This capability ensures that all team members, regardless of their location, have access to the most up-to-date information. Cloud computing offers scalability, enabling firms to adjust their resources according to project needs. Additionally, it enhances data security by providing robust measures to protect sensitive information. For more insights and solutions on leveraging cloud computing, you can visit generationix.com or other service provider sites. Collaboration Tools In construction projects, effective communication and collaboration are the glue that holds everything together. Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Zoom play a starring role in this high-stakes performance, providing seamless communication channels for team members to stay in sync. These platforms enable instant messaging, file sharing, and virtual meetings that bring everyone together, no matter where they are. This reduces the risk of miscommunications and errors, leading to a more efficient and harmonious project execution. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) ERP systems, such as SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft Dynamics, integrate various business processes within construction firms. These comprehensive systems streamline operations by managing everything from procurement and inventory to finance and human resources. By centralizing these functions, ERP systems provide a holistic view of the organization’s operations, enabling better decision-making and resource management. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Keeping track of clients can be a juggling act for construction firms. That’s where CRM tools like Salesforce and HubSpot come in, these platforms help remember every detail about your clients, from initial contact to project completion. Think of it as a central hub where all your client communications live – emails, phone calls, even those handwritten notes. In addition, these tools also help manage potential clients, or ‘leads,’ nurturing those relationships and turning them into happy customers. Mobile Applications Mobile applications designed specifically for construction management have transformed how field operations are conducted. Gone are the days of paper trails and frantic phone calls. Today’s construction teams are armed with smartphones and tablets, acting as mini-command centers in their pockets. This allows them to capture data – send photos of completed tasks or instant updates on material deliveries – and share it with project managers on the fly. This real-time flow of information cuts down on miscommunication and delays. Cybersecurity Solutions In today’s digital age, construction firms are no strangers to stockpiles of sensitive data – blueprints, budgets, client contracts – it’s all there. But just like a fortress needs a strong guard, this information needs robust cybersecurity solutions to keep it safe. Think of firewalls as digital gatekeepers, controlling who enters the system. Encryption scrambles information, making it gibberish to anyone who shouldn’t see it. And wireless intrusion detection system are like guard dogs, constantly on the lookout for suspicious activity. These security measures are vital not just for protecting your company’s sensitive info, but also for maintaining client trust and keeping up with regulations. Data Analytics and Reporting Data analytics and reporting tools are indispensable for modern construction firms aiming to make data-driven decisions. These tools analyze vast amounts of project data to generate insightful reports that help in performance tracking and trend identification. By leveraging data analytics, firms can optimize their processes, identify potential issues early, and make informed decisions that enhance project outcomes. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) VR and AR are ushering in a new era of innovation, offering construction firms mind-bending ways to visualize and simulate projects. These cutting-edge tools conjure up immersive experiences for design reviews, client presentations, and training sessions that’ll make your head spin. By harnessing the power of VR and AR, construction teams can peer into the intricate depths of complex designs and make necessary tweaks before breaking ground, reducing the risk of costly curveballs down the line. Conclusion In a world where deadlines are razor-thin and budgets are constantly scrutinized, the future of construction hinges on efficiency. By strategically adopting essential IT services, construction firms can transform from brick-and-mortar builders to data-driven powerhouses. Don’t get left behind in the digital dust. Take advantage of this guide to identify the IT services that will propel your construction firm towards the
Key Takeaways: Are you feeling overwhelmed by keeping up with the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape? Running a business is demanding enough, and managing complex IT security can feel like a constant uphill battle. Outsourcing IT security offers a powerful solution. By collaborating with a dedicated team of IT security experts including virtual CIOs, you gain access to state-of-the-art tools, round-the-clock monitoring, and a wealth of specialized knowledge – potentially at a more cost-effective rate than building an internal team. This guide aims to explore the specific advantages of outsourcing your IT security needs, helping you determine if this approach aligns with your organization’s unique requirements and objectives. Cost Savings Outsourcing IT support can be a strategic move for businesses seeking to optimize their operational costs. By choosing to outsource IT to attentus.tech or other service providers, companies can circumvent the substantial expenses associated with assembling and maintaining an in-house IT team. These costs encompass not only salaries and benefits but also the overhead for dedicated office space and equipment. One of the key advantages of outsourced IT services is their flexibility in pricing models. Many providers offer subscription-based or pay-as-you-go plans, enabling businesses to budget more effectively and only pay for the services they require at any given time. This financial agility can be especially advantageous for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which may lack the resources to sustain a comprehensive IT department within their organization. Access to Expertise One of the most significant advantages of outsourcing IT support is access to a broad range of expertise. IT support providers employ professionals with specialized skills and knowledge across various technologies and platforms. These experts stay updated with the latest industry trends and innovations, ensuring that clients benefit from the best practices and cutting-edge solutions. For a business, maintaining such a diverse and skilled team internally can be challenging and costly. Outsourcing services bridges this gap, providing immediate access to high-level expertise without the long-term commitment of building an internal team. Scalability Outsourcing IT support services offers unparalleled scalability, allowing businesses to adjust their IT resources based on current needs. Whether a company is experiencing rapid growth, seasonal fluctuations, or temporary increases in demand, outsourced IT services can easily scale up or down. The flexibility of outsourced technical support extends beyond just cost savings. By utilizing reliable service providers like iT2’s SAP consultants, businesses can gain access to specialized expertise precisely when they need it most, without the obligation of long-term commitments. This agility proves invaluable during peak periods or critical projects, enabling companies to handle increased workloads seamlessly, without the need to undergo the time-consuming and costly process of hiring and training additional in-house staff. Focus on Core Activities By outsourcing IT support, businesses can focus more on their core activities and strategic goals. Managing IT infrastructure and addressing technical issues can be time-consuming and distract from primary business functions. Outsourcing these tasks allows internal teams to dedicate their efforts to areas that directly impact the company’s growth and success, such as product development, marketing, and customer service. This strategic focus can enhance overall productivity and contribute to more effectively achieving business objectives. Improved Security Outsourced IT support providers typically have advanced security measures and protocols in place to protect their clients’ data and systems. These providers invest in state-of-the-art security technologies and stay abreast of emerging threats, ensuring robust protection against cyberattacks, data breaches, and other security incidents. For many businesses, maintaining the same level of internal security would require significant investment and continuous updates. By outsourcing, companies can leverage top-tier security expertise and infrastructure, reducing the risk of costly security breaches and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Enhanced Productivity A reliable IT support team is the backbone that keeps your business operations running like a well-oiled machine. Outsourced IT providers excel at this vital role, offering proactive monitoring and maintenance services that catch potential issues before they spiral into major disruptions. This preemptive approach is a productivity powerhouse, ensuring your employees have seamless access to the technology and systems they need to perform at their best. No more frustrating downtimes or system glitches derailing their workflow. As a result, businesses can maintain a high level of operational continuity and avoid the costly setbacks associated with IT failures. Access to Latest Technology Outsourcing IT support gives businesses access to the latest technological advancements and innovations. IT providers continuously update their tools and methodologies to stay competitive and deliver the best possible service. This means that businesses can benefit from the newest technologies without having to invest heavily in research, development, and implementation. Additionally, outsourced providers can offer valuable insights and recommendations on technology adoption, helping businesses stay ahead of the curve and leverage new solutions for improved performance and competitiveness. 24/7 Support By enlisting these around-the-clock guardians, you gain a steadfast ally in the never-ending battle against technological turmoil. They’re proactive partners who confront every technical challenge head-on, minimizing disruptions and fostering a smooth, streamlined workflow. With them in your corner, your team can focus on what matters most – driving your core business forward. Continuous IT support minimizes downtime, enhances customer satisfaction, and ensures that employees can work efficiently without being hindered by technical problems. This level of support is often challenging and expensive to maintain with an in-house team, making outsourcing an attractive option. Conclusion Remember, a proactive approach is crucial – don’t wait for a security breach to act. Carefully consider your business needs and weigh the advantages outlined in this guide. With the right partner by your side, you can achieve peace of mind knowing your valuable data and systems are protected around the clock.
