Despite being a tad on the numerically challenged side, I do recognise the value of statistics. They can bolster an argument, support decisions and identify trends. In short, they can be empowering

They can be also be elusive, so it’s good to see the British Woodworking Federation providing solid statistical information for its members via the services of market analyst Michael Rigby Associates.

We recently published the first of what are to be biannual reports on the state of the UK timber window sector in our sister publication Timber Windows (Autumn 2003).

As BWF director Richard Lambert commented at the time: “As this first report shows, the recovery is well under way, market share is showing signs of growth and the outlook is good”.

Now, in this issue of TTJ, it’s the turn of timber fire doors in the first of a quarterly trends report. Again, it promises to provide what Mr Lambert refers to as “a regular, credible source of information” and to keep a finger on the timber fire door market pulse.

One of the best things about the two reports is that they are free and that’s the route that TRADA is now going down with its askTRADA website.

Already a resounding success (professional membership among architects, engineers, surveyors and specifiers has increased by more than 30% in the last year), TRADA has recognised that the way to encourage the use of timber is to provide free and easy access to reliable information.

It’s what the steel and concrete industries already do, so offering core technical information gratis is necessary to combat competition from rival industries.

It’s not a decision that has been taken lightly and TRADA is at pains to assure its corporate and professional members that the move will have tangible benefits for them.

The fact is, that while we all know that timber is a fantastic construction material – just look at our coverage of the Irish Joinery Awards and the Wood Awards – some specifiers still need the message rammed home.

Providing credible information, backed with reliable statistics, should do the trick.

And just to finish with statistics, 20-17 is the one I like best.