Appendix 2 - Summary of Key Points Raised in Group Discussions
In terms of current POE activity,
- Most authorities have done/are doing some form of evaluation
- Evaluation exercises are generally being conducted 'in-house'
- Most evaluation exercises involve consultation with stakeholders
In terms of barriers to making POE a regular activity,
- A lack of resources has constrained evaluation activity to date
- A lack of experience and expertise is also an issue
- The fear of criticism is a major issue for both clients and contractors
The benefits of undertaking POE include,
- Allows 'fitness for purpose' to be assessed
- Provides a good platform for stakeholders to air their views
- Will help improve design quality
- Assists in streamlining future procurement processes
In order for POE to be carried out successfully,
- Commitment, clarity and leadership is required
- Clients and participants must be prepared to accept constructive criticism
- Facilitator needs to be neutral
- Expectations of stakeholders need to be managed
- The evaluation process should be comprehensive
For POE to become commonplace,
- Initial POEs need to be seen in a positive light
- Evaluation must be made an essential requirement of school estate activity
- The benefits need to be demonstrated through sharing of good practice
- Funding has to be available
- POE should be included in the training of building professionals