Who are Local Supply Chain?
We’re the UK’s leading online cloud-based supply chain, procurement and performance management SaaS solution specifically designed for the built environment. That’s quite a mouthful. Essentially, we’re a bunch of nice people doing good things with technology to make life easier for buyers and suppliers in the construction sector.
Is the platform easily accessible?
Yes! The LSC platform exists and operates on the Microsoft Azure Network and is securely accessible by UK buyers and suppliers via all mobile and desktop devices (laptops, mobiles, MacBooks and tablets) and any modern browser.
What is SaaS?
SaaS is the acronym for Software as a Service. It refers to software that is licensed to users on a subscription basis so that they can gain access via the internet instead of requiring software installation. Examples of other SaaS platforms include Netflix, Zoom, DocuSign and Shopify.
How many construction businesses use your platform?
We have more than 33,000 suppliers registered with us. Over 30 top UK construction companies choose to use LSC for all their supply chain activities.
How does the LSC platform differ from traditional supply chain management systems?
Our platform has been specifically designed to meet the demands and needs of the built environment: we’re focused on delivery solutions that support the ever-changing and growing needs of this sector.
What types of supply chain processes can be managed using LSC?
All your supply chain processes can be managed, from pre-qualifications to sourcing and engaging your new and existing suppliers along with the renewal process for your approved and preferred supply chains.
How secure is LSC for managing sensitive project data?
We can’t go into too much detail here but do get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to provide you with reassurance and peace of mind about our capabilities, processes and safeguards.
What level of customisation is available on the platform?
As we’re a SaaS solution, we have many customisable processes and structures available, including but not limited to bespoke pre-qualification questions and processes, performance reviews, supply chain structures and supply chain categorisation.
How scalable is LSC to accommodate business growth and changes?
Our success within the built environment stems from our agile and forward-thinking approach which is embedded throughout our platform and people. LSC is an ever-growing platform, consistently evolving to support the requirements of our customers and the constantly changing industry.
How easy is the system to adopt and integrate? What’s the standard timeline?
Getting started with LSC is very easy: our platform has been adopted and implemented successfully across thousands of organisations. For buyers, the average implementation time frame is 6-8 weeks. For suppliers, it’s immediate: as soon as you register, you have full access to LSC.
Does LSC integrate with other software systems, such as ERP and CRM?
Yes, LSC is hosted within the cloud, making it super easy for us to integrate with ERPs and CRMs that have similar capabilities. We already have popular integrations up and running – examples of these include:
COINS, SMAS, CHAS, Constructionline, Credit Safe and Companies House.
How does the tool ensure data security and privacy?
There are many ways in which we protect data security and privacy. First of all, we have two-factor authentication. Roles and permissions are in place for all users to manage internally to control who has access to their LSC environment. Our platform is held in the Microsoft Azure Network and backed up in several locations.
What happens if the system goes down?
We have system-down processes in place to ensure the impact is as minimal as possible and that we can solve the issue quickly. For more information on our policy, please contact: data.protection@localsupplychain.co.uk
What measures does LSC take to prevent cyber threats and data breaches?
We do everything we can to prevent this. For added peace of mind, we’ve successfully achieved ISO 27001 and Cyber Essential Plus, see here for more information:
Do you offer training and onboarding for all users?
Yes, we do! Our Account Managers and Support Team are fully equipped with the skills to make sure your onboarding runs smoothly without a glitch! We’re hands-on with all our users, making sure they can confidently navigate and utilise LSC, delivering training both remotely and in-person.
What kind of customer support do you provide?
Our support helpdesk is available Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. Our fully trained UK-based support team is on hand to support you and your teams with any queries you may have.
How often do you release updates?
We have an iterative process for the development of LSC with the purpose to always improve the quality and functionality of the platform. LSC has in-house developers, meaning we can (and do) enhance our platform several times a year. There’s a link to our release notes showing historical releases below:
https://lsc.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/categories/115000109651-Release-Notes
How do I upgrade from free membership?
It’s very simple. If you’re a supplier wishing to upgrade, contact our support team: support@localsupplychain.co.uk
Are there any limitations on the number of users or transactions?
We recognise that limiting user numbers reduces usage which isn’t good for anyone, therefore our licensing structure for buyers promotes high usage across users. We’ll be happy to discuss our licensing arrangements with you, just give us a call or get in touch.
For suppliers, LSC is FREE, and we do not limit user numbers, so you can invite as many of your team as is needed.
How do I arrange a free demo?
We’ve made it super simple, drop us a message here and we’ll be in touch to arrange your free demo at a time to suit you.
Is there a trial version available?
We’re so confident in the solutions we offer that there doesn’t need to be a trial version! We will get to know you to better understand your needs and requirements, then provide you with an offer you can work with that ticks all your boxes.
Got a less frequently asked question?
Get in touch today and we’ll happily answer any questions you have about our platform.
