Holistic Insight’s Built Environment Sentiment Report
Uncover actionable insights from our latest Built Environment Sentiment Report.
Every year, Holistic Insight speaks with hundreds of stakeholders across the real estate and built environment sectors, ranging from developers and investors to end-users, supply chain members, and project teams. These conversations provide a unique snapshot of current market sentiment, uncovering what truly matters to stakeholders and where the industry is heading.
Our latest report reveals actionable insights into client priorities, frustrations, and opportunities. Here’s a sneak peek into the findings.
What matters most to clients
When it comes to selecting consultants or project partners, clients in the built environment prioritise:
- Trust and partnership. Strong working relationships matter. Clients value consultants who are proactive and embed themselves within the client’s team, showing a genuine commitment to the end result.
- Clear communication. Regular, transparent communication is a must, whether it’s about project costs, timelines, or challenges. Preferred methods include a mix of face-to-face meetings, phone calls, and emails, but consistency is key.
- Proven expertise. The number one factor influencing appointments is experience and a proven track record. Clients want to see a history of successful delivery, backed by quality output.
- Added value. Clients expect consultants to go beyond technical delivery by offering strategic advice, industry insights, and solutions to emerging challenges, such as navigating sustainability and leveraging technology.
- Cost sensitivity: Being sensitive to costs and controlling it where possible.
Common frustrations
Our report also highlights frustrations that can be damaging to client relationships, including:
- Poor communication, for example, inconsistent updates.
- Lack of capacity or an imbalance between senior and junior resources on teams.
- A failure to address clients’ broader goals and internal pressures, beyond immediate project needs.
- Quick wins to mitigate these issues include establishing regular communication schedules, proactively solving problems, and aligning with client priorities.
Where you can add value
As the built environment plays a critical role in sustainability and placemaking, stakeholders are also increasingly focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations, net zero targets, and certifications like BREEAM and WELL.
Clients are navigating a wave of technological advancements, from AI and digital planning tools to modular construction and smart building technologies. There’s a clear opportunity for consultants to offer reassurance, guidance, and thought leadership in these areas.
How is your business performing?
Our findings reveal an average client satisfaction score of 8.5/10 for project delivery, with slightly lower scores for innovation. While these results are strong, there’s room to differentiate by demonstrating new thinking.
If you’re unsure how your business stacks up or want to identify areas for growth, Holistic Insight can help.
To access the full findings and dive deeper into client feedback, challenges, and opportunities, contact us for a copy of the report. And by signing up for future reports, you’ll receive exclusive access to the latest market insights. Contact our team for further information.