Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Efficiency Market Place (EMP)?

The Efficiency Market Place (EMP) is a new electronic platform that will transform the way NHC Members access goods and services, as well as allowing you to share and trade resources within the social housing sector.

How will it work?

To begin, EMP will be delivered via the NHC's website utilising a search directory and an email enquiry system. Members will be able to subscribe to the EMP in order to get regular email updates about new products and services that are being offered. Members will also be able to search for products, services and information that meet their needs on the directory. Should Members not find what they are looking for they can contact the NHC via the enquiry system who will use the EMP database to try and source a solution.

Going forward, EMP will be delivered via an ecommerce system where Members would have personalised log in and can use the system to obtain quotations and place orders for goods or services. EMP will grow to be supported by other interactive technology such as applications for tablets and smart phones. All of this will be underpinned by the NHC's relationship and account management functions in order to support NHC Members utilising the system.

What will it offer?

The NHC intends to offer all of its current products and services via EMP including Policy information and Consortium Procurement Framework Agreements. In addition, the NHC will be establishing a range of "Associates" by vetting organisations that can provide products and services to the social housing sector. Finally, NHC Members will be able to advertise products or services they are able to offer to other NHC Members via EMP. The first range of services to be offered will be in the area of "Housing, Health and Social Care" with other areas to be added as it evolves.

What are the costs?

The use of EMP will be free to NHC Members. There will be a fee structure for "Associates" in order to advertise their products and services via EMP.

How can my organisation get involved?

If you have products or services you would be interested in advertising and selling via EMP the NHC is beginning to recruit Members and "Associates". The NHC will also need Members to help test the website functionality in early 2012.