CIOB Supports tCn: the Construction Network

Wednesday, 28 July 2010 12:00 AM

As social media use continues to rapidly expand within the construction sector the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) announces its support of the Construction Network (tCn).

Michael Brown CIOB Deputy Chief Executive said, "In the past the construction industry relied exclusively on physical connections to develop business networks and share information. But as technology evolves those opportunities can now be created online and on a far wider scale than ever before.

"tCn is unlike other social media channels, it is purely focused at professionals working in the UK built environment and they can only join through invitation. If you are CIOB member you are automatically entitled to participate."

The network is the brainchild of former England rugby union star Jason Leonard, and founder Ryan Briggs, brings together the best aspects of sites such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Launched in March 2010, tCn has grown rapidly, reaching 1500 registered users in its first three months, with 60 industry organisations creating profiles. Individual membership and basic company profiles are free on a registration basis.

Listening to feedback from a wide range of architectural, engineering, construction, property and education bodies has been critical to the next phase of tCn's expansion says tCn founder Ryan Briggs:

"The initial site proved that the concept of an industry-specific networking site for people in construction-related professions was attractive. We have listened to feedback from, among others, the Chartered Institute of Building, the Institution of Civil Engineers, the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, Travis Perkins, Balfour Beatty, Mace, Schueco and North West Kent College, and the site upgrade will reflect many of their ideas and suggestions.

"We aim to be different to other online networks by focusing on relevance and listening to what those in the Industry want. For a start, tCn is initially concentrating on the UK, it is independent of any existing social networks, publishers or industry organisations, and - at the request of several corporate subscribers - we are actively moderating the community on an approved registration basis to limit the activities of recruitment professionals. We will also support organisations who want to build private online communities for their employees, members or supply chains."

You can find further information about tCn at

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) represents for the public benefit the most diverse set of professionals in the construction industry.
Our Mission

To contribute to the creation of a modern, progressive, and responsible construction industry; able to meet the economic, environmental and social challenges faced in the 21st century.
Our 7 Guiding Principles

Creating extraordinary people through professional learning and continuous personal development.

Promoting the built environment as central to the quality of life for everyone everywhere.

Achieving a sustainable future, worldwide.

Advocating exemplary ethical practice and behaviour, integrity and transparency.

Pursuing excellence in management practice, and technological innovation rooted in evidence based science.

Being socially responsible and working responsibly.

Enabling our members to find an emotional resonance with the Institute; their success is our success.

We have over 45,000 members around the world and are considered to be the international voice of the building professional, representing an unequalled body of knowledge concerning the management of the total building process.

Chartered Member status is recognised internationally as the mark of a true, skilled professional in the construction industry and CIOB members have a common commitment to achieving and maintaining the highest possible standards within the built environment.

Further information is available by contacting Saul Townsend CIOB Press and Communications Manager on t: 01344 630 766 or e:

*To unsubscribe from the CIOB's press distribution service please reply to this email with the word 'REMOVE' in the subject field. Or contact the press office directly on t: +44 (0) 1344 630 766.

Kind Regards

Saul Townsend MCIPR
Press & Communications Manager
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
t: + 44 (0) 1344 630 766 f: + 44 (0) 1344 630 770
e: stownsend@ciob.org.uk Twitter: CIOBsaul
w: www.ciob.org www.artofbuilding.org

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