ARK's ASAP platform showing property data

The Evolution of ASAP, ARK’s Asset Management and Performance Model

By Danny Trueman · 6 September 2024

We are delighted to announce that ASAP, ARK’s Strategic Asset Management and Performance model, has been shortlisted for the ‘Best Use of Data Intelligence’ Award at the UK Housing Awards 2024.

This recognition highlights the significant impact ASAP has made in transforming asset management within the social housing sector and we couldn’t be prouder of this achievement.

To celebrate this milestone, ARK is taking a moment to reflect on the evolution of ASAP, from its inception in 2009 to the recent launch of Version 4 in 2024. We sat down with Danny Trueman, ARK’s Data & Insights Manager, who has been instrumental in the development and advancement of ASAP, to discuss its journey and the innovations that have brought us to where we are today.

The Origins of ASAP for Asset Management: Going Beyond ‘Decent Homes’

ASAP’s story begins in 2009, a time when asset management in social housing was heavily influenced by the Decent Homes Standard. This standard, introduced by the UK government in 2004, set the minimum requirements for housing, to ensure that homes were warm, safe, and in a reasonable state of repair. However, John Fisher, ARK’s Director leading on asset management, recognised that these requirements, while important, did not address the full spectrum of what makes a home truly ‘decent.’

John envisioned an asset management model that would go beyond simply meeting the Decent Homes Standard. He wanted a model that would take into account the ‘people’ side of asset management – how residents felt about their communities and the improvements that were needed to enhance their living environments. The aim was to create a tool that could tell the ‘full story,’ incorporating human factors that traditional stock condition surveys overlooked.

From Spreadsheet to Cloud: The Evolution of ASAP

The first version of ASAP was a comprehensive Excel workbook, designed to grade entire schemes of properties and ‘test’ relative overall performance. It offered a new way of looking at asset management that was more holistic and resident focused. However, as the needs of the sector grew, so did the demand for a more robust and scalable solution. So, ASAP models gradually developed becoming more comprehensive and sophisticated.

In 2019, ASAP underwent a major transformation. The model was moved into the cloud and presented through a web-based platform, which allowed for more data to be processed and displayed. This shift not only increased the model’s capacity but also enabled it to grade individual properties as well as entire schemes, providing a more detailed and granular view of housing assets.

Embracing Sustainability: ASAP’s Green Revolution

By 2021, the landscape of asset management was changing, driven by the growing focus on sustainability and the UK’s Net Zero initiatives. The demand for decarbonisation analysis features became critical, especially with the upcoming requirements for rented properties to achieve an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating of C or higher by 2030 and net zero for 2050.

ASAP responded to this demand by integrating sustainability data, including EPC scores and other energy performance data. This addition allowed asset managers to incorporate environmental factors into their decision-making processes, ensuring that their housing stock not only met current standards but was also preparing for future standards.

The Launch of ASAP Version 4: A New Era in Asset Management

2024 has marked another significant milestone in the evolution of ASAP with the launch of Version 4. This latest version leverages Microsoft’s Power BI, a business intelligence solution, offering a more user-friendly interface that makes data analysis and reporting even more accessible.

One of the standout features of Version 4 is the new Scenario Planning tool. This innovative feature allows asset managers to simulate changes to data, helping them to visualise different outcomes and plan for potential changes to their properties. Whether it’s adjusting for new regulations, updating income and expenditure, planning renovations, or responding to tenant feedback, the Scenario Planning tool equips managers with the insights they need to make informed decisions.

Additionally, Version 4 introduced a fresh update to reflect ARK’s new branding, giving the platform a modern look that aligns with our commitment to innovation and excellence.

What’s Next for ASAP?

ASAP’s journey is far from over. ARK’s Directors and the ASAP team meet regularly to plan the platform’s next steps, constantly working to develop and enhance its capabilities. ARK has a User Group that provides client feedback and helps to set priorities for development. As we look to the future, we’re excited to see how ASAP will continue to evolve and shape the landscape of asset management in the UK housing sector.

Being shortlisted for the ‘Best Use of Data Intelligence’ award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire ARK team. We’re honoured to be recognised alongside other leaders in the industry, and we can’t wait to see what tomorrow holds for ASAP and for the future of asset management.

Ready to Transform Asset Management with ASAP?

If you’re looking to elevate your asset management practices and ensure compliance with the new RSH Consumer Standards, ASAP is the solution you’ve been searching for. Contact us today to learn more about how ASAP can benefit your organisation and help you achieve your asset management goals.


For more details of the model and a demonstration, speak to one of our ASAP experts today.

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