ISN’s Contractor Management Strategy Survey collected insights from 200+ decision makers at 160+ companies, who manage contractors and subcontractors in ISNetworld. The findings from this survey are designed to provide a contractor management benchmark which helps companies drive continual improvement in their efforts toward a zero-incident workplace.

According to the inaugural survey from ISN, the shortage of a skilled and competent workforce was identified as the top challenge by companies in achieving their contractor management objectives in the next 12-18 months. At the same time, 42 percent of the companies surveyed expect their need for outsourcing work to third-party contractors to increase, half of which anticipate double-digit increases.

“Internal and external constraints such as competing internal priorities, shortage of qualified workers and an increased reliance on subcontractor relationships continue to put pressure on companies that hire contractors,” said Joseph Eastin, President and Chief Executive Officer of ISN. “It is essential to have a strategic contractor management plan in place that ensures work is being completed in a safe, reliable and sustainable manner.”

Improving the safety performance of both employees and contractors was identified as the top priority for driving organization’s contractor management goals. In addition, improving business continuity and operational excellence was also ranked as a key driver for meeting their contactor management objectives.

“The survey data confirms what we’ve seen in the industry; leading organizations drive a safety-first culture and maintain a documented strategic plan for their contractor management objectives,” said Dag Yemenu, Senior Vice President of Technical Services at ISN. “By establishing a clear communication strategy, incorporating a risk-ranking process and integrating internal business processes, a sustainable contractor management system is one that enables you to meet your safety and compliance objectives while promoting a culture of transparency, partnership and continuous improvement.”

To access the Contractor Management Strategy White Paper and additional ISN Analytics Publications, please visit https://www.isnetworld.com/newsroom/publications.