Demonstration Programme

What is a Demo Project?

The Welsh Demonstration Programme is an integral part of the UK Programme which was established in 1998 and has proven to be an excellent vehicle for the capture and dissemination of best practice knowledge in the built environment sector.

Demonstrations are about live construction projects and/or organisations and initiatives that are innovating or applying an element of best practice that it is hoped will lead to a step-change in performance for the participating organisations.

Constructing Excellence in Wales use the learning captured from the Demonstration Programme to influence industry change. We find that nothing can really compare to highlighting practice from real projects and organisations. Project participants commit to learning and sharing from (and with) each other. They are also able to take part in communities of best practice which bring together like-minded individuals from across various different demonstrations.

Participants must also agree to measure their performance with Key Performance Indicators and are given the opportunity to present at Constructing Excellence events on a regular basis. 

Why become a Demo?

The main reason to become a demonstration project is amply illustrated by the graph below but to put it simply, they perform better. The main reason for this is that the mindset of those participating in the programme is a desire for improvement by seeking and sharing Best Practice. They are prepared to measure and identify current performance and make improvements where necessary.

Two further benefits are worth highlighting.

Firstly there are the marketing and PR advantages that participating in the process can bring.

In support of this, Constructing Excellence will…

• Endeavour to get articles and features on Demonstration projects placed in the construction press
• Produce a Case Study for all projects that go through the Demonstration process
• Allow all Demonstration projects  to use  a logo denoting themselves as such
• Ensure that all project teams get sufficient opportunity to showcase their projects at CE events

The second benefit is the opportunity to participate in a learning and sharing network. The main vehicle for this is the Best Practice Clubs and the Demonstration Events associated with them.

How to become a Demo

If you would like to apply for Demonstration Status then simply download and complete the straightforward application form and return it to Gordon Brown, Director, by email or post.

Step 1
Download the CEW Demo application form

Step 2
Fill in the form and return by email

Alternatively you can give Gordon a call or email him and he will arrange to meet you.

What happens next?

Gordon will follow up your application with a face to face meeting at which he will discuss the suitability of your project. What follows then is a two stage process.

You will be asked to present your project to your local Best Practice Club who will evaluate the presentation not on what you are doing but how you intend to deliver your stated objectives.

If successful, the project will be “peer reviewed” on completion with an evaluation made of it’s achievements against its stated objections and the leasing gained from the process. The “peer group” will recommend whether the project has achieved demonstration status.

Throughout the process, the emphasis is on support and sharing Best Practice. Indeed we will endeavor to link you to current best practice and expertise should you require it.