ACE’s benchmarking study is the definitive analysis of the performance of the engineering consultancy firms working in the built environment.

Postponed last year owing to the pandemic, ACE’s benchmarking study returns for 2021 and builds on its strong foundations covering more than 200 business variables including costs, productivity, skills and clients, with new analysis around current industry priorities such as Net Zero, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), and office use post-lockdown.

Unlike in previous years, the study is now free for all participating ACE member firms who, in return for their involvement, will receive a copy of the benchmarking report, as well as bespoke analysis comparing their business performance to their peers’. In addition, participating firms will be invited to an exclusive online event only for participants to discuss the findings of the benchmarking study in November 2021.

As with previous years, the study is split into two with SME companies with a headcount of less than 250 completing a simplified version. This year they will – for the first time – receive bespoke analysis alongside full data tables. In a bid to encourage even more smaller companies to take part, the data set has been reworked to focus on the most important business information.

Commenting on the 2021 study, ACE’s director of policy Matthew Farrow said: “The insight provided by the benchmarking study will be crucial for all firms navigating recovery. It is the only way business leaders can truly gauge company performance in a complicated and uncertain market, as well gain an understanding on how they are faring on issues such as Net Zero and EDI.”

“Building on ACE’s post-COVID emergency response, the benchmarking study will offer key business insight and analysis for free as we continue our vital role supporting our members through the pandemic and out to recovery.”

“With all of this in mind, I’d encourage all members to take part in the study this year.”

Member firms interested in participating in the free benchmarking study, and accessing the exclusive analysis, report and webinar, have until Monday 5 July 2021 to register their interest by emailing Matthew Farrow.

Participants will have six weeks to complete the process, before ACE starts production of the report and individual analysis for each company.

Please note this article was adapted on 27 September 2021 to remove original dates which are no longer valid.