Implementation

The implementation of the Construction Sector Transparency Initiative (CoST) process in each pilot country requires preparation and operation.

Preparation for CoST

Certain steps must be taken before the operation phase of CoST can start. These establish the operational and governance structures for the initiative in each country.

A public statement is made by the government that it intends to pilot CoST.
A CoST Champion is appointed with responsibility for ensuring that CoST is implemented.
A multi-stakeholder group (MSG) is formed to oversee the implementation of CoST and represent stakeholders' interests . To qualify as a multi-stakeholder group, the group has to have equitable representatiion from public and private sectors and civil society.
A Work Plan is produced in each country for implementing CoST, with key activities, milestones, a timetable, budget and an assessment of capacity constraints. It may also identify the need to appoint an MSG Coordinator - a person or team that will service the MSG and ensure their plans are carried out.
Project thresholds are established to guide the project selection and ensure that the process is fair, manageable and practicable.
Project information templates are agreed to define the nature and extent of information to be disclosed by the procuring entities on all CoST projects.
A baseline study team is appointed to analyse the current level of disclosure in the country.

Operation of CoST

With the CoST infrastructure in place, the operation of CoST involves three key stages:

Disclosure of information by the Procuring Entitiess: The operational phase of CoST starts with the public disclosure of material information on the individual projects included in CoST. The information required is defined in the project information template and is either made available to CoST directly by the participating procuring entities (PEs) or can be collected by representatives of the MSG or the Assurance Team, depending on resources.
Assurance or data analysis/interpretation: An Assurance Team is appointed that is responsible for assessing the adequacy and reliability of project information disclosures. The Assurance Team reviews the disclosures and reports to the MSG on its findings, providing an interpretation of the information obtained and the main conclusions that can be drawn.
Public reporting: The MSG publishes reports to disclose to the wider public the main findings of the Assurance Team.

For more information on these stages as well as the results, please see the relevant sections on the left