Unlike any other design industry data analysis, Performance Tracker will provide detailed and up to date analysis of each participant’s financial performance in comparison with the subscriber group as a whole and according to groupings by size, location and design discipline. There will be complete confidentiality,
so individual performance results will be disclosed only to the business to which it relates.

In addition to the financial performance comparison (essentially the operating report) Performance Tracker will include performance ratio analysis, current charge-out rates, and current salaries, analysed by employee category. There will also be a narrative quarterly industry trend analysis.

The Performance Tracker quarterly report will be contained in five A4 sheets namely, Operating Report, Operating Report Analysis, Productivity Analysis, Salaries, and the narrative report, Industry Trends. As the participants will cover a wide range of size and sophistication, the report is designed to be easily understood, as well as meeting the criteria for a board paper.

The completion of the on-line input form is straightforward, but it is designed with an inherent discipline to ensure accuracy and authenticity. Because the data will be compiled in a uniform manner from current management information, the results will be far more useful as a management tool than annual data compiled from published accounts. By using the data as part of a quarterly management review of their business, participants will be able to ensure their charge-rates and salaries are appropriately positioned and highlight areas of the business which need further analysis and management action.

A subscription rate of £100 per quarter will cover development and on-going servicing of Performance Tracker which is available only to DBA members. To receive a subscription form or to find out more about this new service visit email emer.otoole@dba.org.uk.

Members subscribing by the 31 August will receive their Quarter 1 report (Jan to Mar 06) free. Data relating to Quarter 2 (Apr to June) will need to be inputed by 31 August.