In their role as judges of the Pride in the Job Awards, NHBC’s regional directors are able to get a real feel for the market and how sites are progressing. Here they give their perspective on the downturn and the challenges facing site managers in their region. <br> <br> DAVID LITTLE, NHBC’s director for Northern Ireland: “The downturn in sales became evident in mid 2007 here, so we have had two years where output has been at a historically low level. Recently, however, we have started to see activity on site picking up in many areas in comparison with last year and there is a cautiously positive view of the market emerging from builders we speak to. “Northern Ireland has a diverse industry made up of mostly medium and small builders. We have not seen much evidence of skill shortages as a result of the downturn and it has been encouraging that many housebuilders have made a great effort to retain site managers in order to be able to respond effectively when the market improves.” <br> <br> MALCOLM MACLEOD, NHBC’s Scottish director: “Naturally the downturn has led to efficiencies being made on site, from material ordering on a just-in-time basis, …