In the absence of a dedicated quality and risk management standard for this group of professionals, we have used our 'Professions Series' as the framework for developing such a standard. It provides a practical framework that organisations can use to help achieve best practice and has been developed taking into consideration the Codes of Practice of the various professional bodies. Where available, guidance published regarding quality assurance and risk management, such as RIBA's interpretation of the ISO 9001 Standard (the 'Quality Management Tool Kit') has also been taken into account. The Standard forms the basis of our self-assessment questionnaire process.

Our primary quality assurance-based risk management (QARM) service for organisations, either insured or seeking insurance under our PI schemes, is the self-assessment process. This uses a questionnaire to:

• Compare the performance of practices within their peer group
• Form the basis of an effective risk management process
• Provide underwriters with a detailed overview of our clients and their respective current management standards in order to make informed underwriting decisions when tailoring coverage

The self-assessment process is completed in 2 simple steps.

Step One – complete the questionnaire, available for download from the appropriate section of the Documentation Library, using MS Excel. The questionnaire consists of two completion options:

• Standard Form - a basic set of questions representing high risk operational factors (completion time approximately 90 minutes)
• Comprehensive Form - a comprehensive questions set that provides an analysis of all operational factors covered by the “Professions Series” standard and best practice principles drawn from other standards including Investors in People and ISO9001 (completion time approximately 210 minutes)

Returned questionnaires are analysed by us to prepare a report that includes prioritised action points. The report is delivered in hard copy, with additional information available on this website. Participating firms benefit from an impartial review of their business and administrative practices.

Step Two - review the written report. A detailed checklist will assist you in addressing issues that might require attention – a feedback process enables you to submit changes that you implement as a result of this process to us for re-evaluation. If relevant, we will then issue an updated report that includes our training reference number for inclusion in your CPD log.

A Risk Management Essentials Questionnaire (RMEQ) designed to provide underwriters with basic core management information as part of the pre-underwriting process is also available for download from the Documentation Library.

The QARM process is completely free of charge – a health check against an industry standard could cost as much as £3,000 from an independent consultant.

Our self-assessment process for Architects is accredited under the RIBA CPD provider’s scheme. QBE is currently the only provider of CPD approved training of this nature under the new curriculum header of Risk Management. Completing the comprehensive questionnaire and feedback loop will, therefore, enable you to record CPD hours at double the standard rate. Our self-assessment services for Engineers, Surveyors and Design & Build firms are in the process of evaluation by RIBA and we expect to achieve accreditation early in 2008.

In addition to the questionnaire based QARM process, a variety of on-site support services are available. The following on-site & bespoke services described attract consultancy fees, although under certain circumstances this fee may be subsidised by underwriters.

Site Audit – this provides a more in-depth investigation than is capable through the self-assessment process. Site audits involve examination of a complete cross-section of the firm’s files in detail and all practice management policies and procedures. Particular emphasis is placed on reviewing complaints and claims histories and the measures instigated to prevent recurrence of the problems encountered. To prepare for a site audit, please download the appropriate Pre-Audit Checklist from the Documentation Library .

Quality Standards Implementation Service – this is applicable to organisations of all types and sizes utilising both generic QA standards (e.g. ISO 9001) and any industry specific standards. The process includes assistance with documentation, implementation, training and, if required, preparation for third party assessment.

Training Services – focussing on risk management, quality assurance and management systems, our training packages can be delivered as public courses or to individual practices whereby the emphasis can be tailored to suit particular risk management issues within the firm.

Bespoke Consultancy Services – are available to clients with unique requirements for which a service can be specially developed. Such services may draw on our Risk Management, QA, IT and analytical expertise.