Procurement is fundamental in making sure a construction project is done right. It is like baking a cake. You plan for the finished outcome, confirming the design and suppliers; checking the ingredients and raw materials and making certain you have the right tools and equipment. If none of these factors are aligned then the job goes wrong.

We know, because we have the research to prove it, that procurement has to be done collaboratively. If it is not then construction schemes are likely to have difficulty contributing to the benefit of local communities, creating employment and training opportunities and managing their waste and respecting the environment. That’s why Procurement Week and the Welsh National Procurement Awards 2015 sponsored by The Welsh Government are so important. They are a marker for everyone to respond to; an opportunity to set a benchmark. Please check the details in the newsletter and take part. We’re proud of the Welsh construction commitment to a well thought through procurement process and it is a chance to showcase our talent as well as learn.

The Procurement Awards is just one of a set of events and activities to put in your calendar. It looks like 2015 is going to be a very busy and positive year, so make sure you manage your diaries as well as your projects and sites!