GET READYFOR BIMHow Building InformationModelling is transformingthe construction industry

Issue 3 psrsolutions.co.uk building careers

2016 sees a digital revolution in the construction industry

when all government projects will require contractors to use

Business Information Modelling (BIM) Level 2.

In this edition, we take a look at the fundamentals of BIM

and how the new rules will affect the construction industry.

PSR Solutions getsInvestors in PeopleaccreditationLast month PSR Solutions demonstrated its commitmentto continuous staff improvement by successfully attainingInvestors in People accreditation.

The standard is a rigorously tested benchmark for peoplemanagement performance and an internationallyrecognised sign of a good employer.

In the accreditation report, the assessor identified thefollowing key strengths of our organisation:

• Clear values, which are embedded throughout.

• Transparent reward and recognition scheme, which includes targets, role expectations and rewards and covers all the team including support staff. This is also regularly reviewed.

• Strong focus on continuous improvement.

• The way that the business plan is translated into clear KPIs for teams and individuals which are visible to all.

• High level of support offered, balanced by clear direction by the senior leadership team.

London 0203 159 5377 Midlands 01785 715505

S POTL IGHT F EATURE

psrsolutions.co.uk

Anniversary logo marks 10 years of building careersThis year, we are celebrating our first 10 years in business and havecreated a special anniversary logo to mark the occasion.

Co-founders James Sanders and Mark Palmer started the business on 1stSeptember 2005 and have seen it go from strength to strength ever since.

The last decade has witnessed several landmark achievements. Thebusiness opened a new office in London in 2010 and has made it into theRecruiter HOT 100 most profitable UK recruitment companies, where it hasreached 4th position in the construction and engineering sector.

These achievements reflect the hard work and dedication from all membersto reach beyond all targets.

In the coming year, we'll be showcasing our success througha specially commissioned logo. It will be used as part of ourbranding to highlight our heritage and assure customers ofour expertise in the recruitment industry.

PSR Client Relationship Director David Berks officiallyunveiled the logo, which comes in two editions, at thecompany's annual staff conference in September.

The standard logo is a simple crest stressing our decade inbusiness. The timeline edition features a series of keymilestones over our 10-year history.

Berks spoke at the conference about the importance ofbranding and showed that 95% of potential candidates saidthey'd reply to email messages if they knew and understoodthe business brand. This provided the basis for the design,which represents the core values of transparency and qualityof service that our experienced consultants offer.

We'd like to thank everyone involved in making our first 10years such a success. Don't forget to look out for theanniversary badges we'll be wearing at all client andcandidate meetings.

The timeline edition of our 10-year anniversary logo

Back in July leading members from the PSR Solutions team attended the WestMidlands Construction Awards at the ICC in Birmingham to celebrate the success ofthe industry’s very best projects.

More than 600 leaders and innovators from the construction industry flocked to theprestigious event to acknowledge the hard work, professionalism and excellence ofthe talent within the industry.

James Sanders, Mark Palmer, David Berks, Ben Parkes and Sarah Vickers were allpresent to sponsor the Achiever of the Year award, which was won by LouiseBrooke-Smith of Birmingham-based consultancy Brooke Smith Planning.

One of thirteen awards up for grabs at the event, it recognises the outstanding performance orinfluence by an individual who is considered inspirational in the opinion of a sector peer group.

Louise collects award from PSR Solutions’ MD James Sanders

PSR sponsors high achiever award

London 0203 159 5377 Midlands 01785 715505

S POTL IGHT F EATURE

GET READY FOR BIM“The digital revolutionis coming”At the start of next year the government will require theuse of Building Information Modelling (BIM) on allpublicly funded construction projects. Yet, according tothe NBS National BIM report 2015, only 48% ofconstruction professionals are aware of and currentlyusing BIM.

So what exactly is it and why does it matter?

BIM in a nutshellIn simple terms, BIM brings together all the informationabout an entire construction project into a single place indigital form.

It's a shared knowledge resource that promotes betterunderstanding of a building project and aidscollaboration between everyone involved. In doing so, itsignificantly reduces the risks of mistakes andinefficiencies throughout the life-cycle of a building;from design, construction, operation, management andrefurbishment, right through to demolition.

Though the concept of BIM is still evolving, it's currentlybroken down into four levels of maturity.

Four levels of BIM• Level 0: 2D drawings usually created through a CAD system or sometimes shared in hard copy format.

• Level 1: 2D or 3D CAD drawings adopting a standardised approach to data presentation. This data is accessible to the construction team but not integrated into a single tool. Commercial data is held separately.

• Level 2: Data presented in specific BIM databases that may include information about cost or programming. No one database contains all the information and commercial data is held separately.

• Level 3: All data held on a centralised web-based system and presented in a standardised format. The data can be accessed by all relevant members of the construction team and may include costs, programming and life-cycle facility management information.

From March 2016 the government will require BIMcompliance to Level 2 and has introduced the measureas part of a mandate to reduce waste in public sectorconstruction by 20%. It has no current plans to extendlegislation into the private sector, although the move willalmost certainly encourage wider adoption.

BIM is revolutionising the building industry and is set tobecome the first truly global digital constructiontechnology. It will consolidate and streamlineinformation into an open sharable asset. It will helpdrive down costs and bring new levels of flexibility andcustomisation into building design.

The new legislation is now just around the corner andthe construction industry is on a steep learning curve asit gears up for adoption.

So if you're not yet familiar with the new requirementsthen now's the right time to get ready for BIM.

Typical requirements for maintainingBIM compliance:

• Gather information that can be shared between construction team members as a database of records.

• Keep the information updated during the project, after its completion and during the operation of the building.

• Use detailed 3D modelling accompanied by non- graphical data highlighting cost and programming information.

“48% of constructionprofessionals are aware ofand currently using BIM"

PSR goes social

London 0203 159 5377 Midlands 01785 715505psrsolutions.co.uk

PSR Solutions' first ever apprenticeAs the BBC's latest series of The Apprentice gets into fullswing, PSR Solutions are delighted to announce they'vejust hired the first ever apprentice of their own.

Luke Hough, from Stafford, has joined the team tocomplete his NVQ Level 3 in Digital Marketing and will beworking on all social media aspects of the business. The18-year-old completed his A-levels in the summer. Whilestudying for his exams, he worked part-time at The Co-operative, where a local head-hunter spotted his potentialand referred him to PSR Solutions as a prospectivecandidate for the new role.

Since successfully landing the position, Luke has beenheavily involved in digital projects, such as refining thecompany website and maintaining all social platforms.

Working under the support of training partner AspireAchieve Advance (3aaa), Luke's endeavours earned himan invitation to attend this year's Ryman NationalEnterprise Challenge presentation at the Houses ofParliament. He was chosen from a total of 7,000 3aaaapprentices to represent the training provider, which alsosponsored the event.

He met former Dragons' Den star and Ryman owner TheoPaphitis, who gave a speech about fosteringentrepreneurial skills from an early age.

The co-founders of the National Enterprise Challenge,Stoke-on-Trent cousins Ben and Michael Dyer, have so fareducated more than 100,000 children on the soft skills ofbusiness.

Commenting on his first few weeks at PSR Solutions, Lukesaid: ‘’It was a formidable challenge coming directlyfrom school, with limited work experience, straight into ateam of highly skilled professionals."But my colleagues were very supportive and keen forme to be a part of the ethos and direction of thebusiness. Their encouragement was incrediblymotivating, giving me a strong will to succeed – both inhelping them achieve their future aspirations andprogressing my own personal ambitions.

"I look forward to the challenges that await us and hopethe company's 10th anniversary marks the start ofanother decade of success."

During his one-year apprenticeship, Luke will work underthe supervision of PSR Client Relationship Director DavidBerks and the owner of Staffordshire-based EvolveMarketing Strategy, Eve Howard, who'll bring more than15 years' marketing experience to the table.

Luke enjoys moment with former Dragon

Luke gives an overview of thesocial media landscape and offers two top tips

"53% of millennialswould rather losetheir sense of smellthan their technology"The appointment of digital marketer Luke Hough as ourfirst ever apprentice comes in the wake of our decision toramp up the company's social media presence.We asked Luke why social media has become soimportant and what advice he'd give to anyone goinginto digital marketing for the first time.

Digital content is everywhereThese days more people own a mobile phone than atoothbrush. Mobile drives 50% of all eCommercetransactions. And 53% of millennials would rather losetheir sense of smell than their technology.

People are using desktop computers less often andaccessing the Internet on mobile devices more andmore. As a result, digital content can now be consumedalmost anywhere.

The integration of mobile devices and social media hasbrought about a fundamental shift in the way wecommunicate. Word of mouth and traditional marketingare no longer enough, which is why building your socialmedia platforms is key to the development of our brand.

PSR will be looking into new, innovative ways to keep intouch with clients and candidates through socialnetworks and mobile technology.

The PR perils of social mediaWhen a company knows how to use social mediaeffectively it can bring huge business benefits. Forexample, around 80% of all companies now use socialmedia for recruitment and 88% of consumers trustonline reviews and recommendations to determine thequality of a business according to Search Engine Land.

But with the benefits also come PR dangers. Whateveryou put online can potentially be seen by anyone. So it'sessential you think carefully before you post any update,while handling bad reviews and monitoring your onlinereputation have never been more crucial.

Luke is also acutely aware of the role content plays indigital marketing strategies.

Here are his two top tips:

Create quality contentMillions of updates are posted to social media every day.So only the very best content has any chance of standingout. Yet too many businesses waste their and theirfollowers' time by posting content just to fill the space.

It's vital you make your posts relevant and interesting toyour followers if you want them to view them over yourcompetitors'. The key to great content is writing abouttopics your target audience can relate to. Find your nicheand provide information followers find useful.

Also take time to think about how you deliver yourcontent. Experiment with video clips, infographics, casestudies and reviews as ways to add variety and increasetraffic. Quality content is something that's hard to define.But if readers see value, they'll engage.

Ditch the robot personaSocial networks are conversational media, where peoplecommunicate in a more conversational style. Sobusinesses have adapted by taking a more relaxed andinformal approach to social media.

Encourage interaction with your followers by replying tocomments and becoming more personable online. Anddon’t shy away from writing something more light-hearted. That way, you'll present a business that haspersonality – which is so important to building acommunity of like-minded brand advocates andultimately attracting customers.

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in construction recruitment.

“My colleagues were verysupportive and keen forme to be a part of theethos and direction of the business”

Luke Hough

London 0203 159 5377 Midlands 01785 715505psrsolutions.co.uk

Value-added extrasFrom our meeting with Ian, it became apparent we don'tstress our extra services enough to our candidates andclients. Yet many feel these are the things that differentiateus from other agencies. Here's one such service:

After being placed by Narinder, Ian was approached byTom from the Aftercare team. This is a new service tofurther assist our clients and candidates. Ian feelsAftercare is a great idea.

He said: "Certain individuals need a different approach.Aftercare allows candidates to open up about anyconcerns without any feeling of vulnerability. Tom got alot of feedback and I was grateful for the support."

PSR will be looking to expand Aftercare to all clients andcandidates – to make sure each individual gets the mostout of its services as possible.

Candidate Profile: Ian Hill “I would rather aconsultancy targetthose hidden gemsthat can be leveredout than getbombarded withnumerous CVs ofunsuitable candidates”

Ian is a permanent Regional CommercialManager at Interserve Engineering ServicesLtd. who has gained vast experience fromhis 20 years as a Mechanical & Electricalcost specialist, working on a wide range ofprestigious projects in several industrysectors.

‘’I've worked with PSR since the New Yearand I'm happy with where I've got to withtheir services. This came as unexpected to both my previous employerand Interserve, as both parties knew I was content in my position," heexplained.

PSR place those who never even thought the opportunity was there,giving clients a fresh pool of professionals.

Ian was impressed by this and added: "I would rather a consultancytarget those hidden gems that can be levered out than getbombarded with numerous CVs of unsuitable candidates. Andlikewise with positions that I've already encountered and wouldn'tapproach myself. This has previously happened on many occasionswith other agencies.

The PSR Team

"PSR speaks on behalf of your personal specificationsrather than pursuing unsuitable avenues. The teamadopts an outside-the-box view to recruiting, which noother consultancy has done before."Its consultants recognise Interserve as a nurturingcompany, which is keen to take time to develop andinvest in employees to create a more dynamicworkforce. We are mindful of how we progress thoseindividuals we take on."

Ian is passionate about the M&E sector as a whole andM&E cost management.

He said: "My ultimate goal would be to work with auniversity or college to create an M&E costmanagement course and train the next generation ofM&E cost managers. We need to invest in the future ofthe M&E market.

"I think of the long-term sustainability of the businessand am very keen to retain our talent. PSR can help usachieve this as they're proactive rather than reactivewith their fantastic database of candidates."The company is in a different league from others inconsultancy and its knowledge of the M&E sector issecond to none."

PSR feels Ian is a fantastic example of a placedcandidate who truly reflects its own core values and seesthe company's services as a partnership in a mutuallybeneficial collaboration with some of the mostprestigious members of our industry.

He often calls for the support of Narinder, our M&ETeam Leader, when a recruitment solution is needed.Narinder said: "This is something we take great pridein. We've recently invested in new software that helpsus further refine searches, enabling us to give clientsand candidates the very best service we can offer.

"That's why Ian can be assured his credibility within theindustry is secure – thanks to the strong knowledge ofour consultants and expertise in our chosen industry."

Narinder Rehal

Narinder has been in recruitment for 15years and is a key figure within theMechanical & Electrical / BuildingServices market in the Midlands.

She specialises in recruitment bothpermanent and freelance, as well asinterim search and selection,headhunting and insightful career advice.

Ian commented on how she dealt with his requests in a professionalmanner.

"Simply by understanding what I really wanted Narinder deliveredon the human element of recruiting in a way that many otheragencies fail to do," he said.

"She asked me about my feelings towards certain companiesbefore sending off my CV, ensuring I knew whom it had gone to."Narinder said: "We feel this safeguards our candidates againstunwanted attention from the wrong people. We've found CVs arepersonal and should not be used like posters.

"We're proud of our extensive industry insight. And having thetime to analyse the market from a distance allows us to matchcandidates with their dream positions."

Narinder also spoke about the launch of the International divisionand believes it will assist the industry in bringing back UKprofessionals who'd been lost to overseas opportunities.

To confidentially discuss any M&E requirements, or your next careermove, contact Narinder or the team on 01785 715505. Or emailher at nrehal@psrsolutions.co.uk.

A F T E R C A R E

“Simply byunderstanding what Ireally wantedNarinder deliveredon the humanelement of recruitingin a way that manyother agencies fail to do.”

At PSR Solutions we're always keen to hear ideason how we can improve. If you have anysuggestions then don't hesitate to call the teamon 01785 715505. Or email us atinsights@psrsolutions.co.uk.

Help us geteven better

Check out ourWebsiteWhether you're a client or candidate,our website www.psrsolutions.co.ukoffers you a wealth of information,including all our latest job vacanciesas well as profiles and pictures ofour staff.

psrsolutions.co.uk

How PSR celebrated its first 10 yearsIn September, PSR Solutions marked its first 10 years by inviting theteam to an anniversary retreat at Center Parcs, Woburn Forest inBedfordshire.

The weekend gave new recruits to the Midlands headquarters anopportunity to meet their colleagues from the London office and get a truesense of the strong community spirit that runs throughout the company.

Treasure huntSaturday morning kicked off bright and early with an indoor team-buildingexercise designed to test the competitive and collaborative skills of staffmembers. The team was split into competing groups who raced each otherto find a sunken ship by answering topical questions and completing a seriesnegotiation challenges.

Forest funAn indoor challenge at one of the UK's largest areasof natural forest may have come as something as asurprise. But the rest of the weekend was muchmore like the forest fun the team had beenexpecting.

Following a welcome reception to all new staffmembers and an inspirational video talk bybusiness author and entrepreneurial speakerGary Vaynerchuk, everyone was then free to lettheir hair down and enjoy the park's facilities.

Staff headed straight for the waterpark to ridethe exhilarating slides and try their hands atrapids racing before rounding the day offwith an evening of light entertainment,featuring a coin-bending magician and afancy dress BBQ.

A true sense of the strongcommunity spirit that runsthroughout thecompany.

IN SEARCH OF

Hidden Treasure Magician wows PSR staff

The whole PSR team together

for a group photo

Midlands OfficePSR Solutions Ltd,Dunston Business Village, Stafford Road, Dunston,Stafford, ST18 9AB.

t. 01785 715505

London OfficePSR Solutions Ltd,23 Austin Friars,London, EC2N 2QP.

t. 0203 159 5377

Evening entertainment gets underway

PSR Directors enjoy evening drinks in fancy dress