Members of the ROCC Strategic Advisory Board (R-SAB) gathered once again for its fourth annual thought-leadership event in Manchester. Bringing together inspirational leaders from ROCC’s most dynamic and progressive partners across the UK, this year’s meeting proved to be even more productive than ever before.
Since its inception, R-SAB membership has proved to be extremely valuable, with a total member saving of 42% in 2024 across operations. By collaborating to define changes and set priorities, housing associations have been able to effectively reduce annual expenditures.
In a world where people in the housing sector are feeling overworked, overwhelmed and under-supported, this membership group is designed to provide a safe space for an open and honest dialogue about challenges faced in the industry – both at a personal and business level.
Introducing CoreOne to the group
We briefed members on the next generation of ROCC solutions: CoreOne. This revolutionary piece of software will not just utilise AI, but is designed and built around AI to make operations smoother and smarter.
The CoreOne platform will:
- Talk to you like a colleague.
- Suggest actions based on AI analysis.
- Work with you through chat, voice or traditional interfaces.
- Let you work from wherever you need to be.
However, it’s more than just software; it’s a commitment to reshaping the future of housing technology, so it finally works not only for your organisation but for you as a person.
Building CoreOne won’t be a solo adventure, and we will be relying on our board members, partners, users and colleagues to help build it. In the coming months, we’ll be asking questions such as:
- What’s one change that could make your job easier today?
- What would you automate if you could?
- What one thing should you never have to do in your day?
- How should housing software feel to use?
CoreOne will be a purpose-built system that puts your needs first, tackling burnout, stress and inefficiency.
Summary of discussion areas
Another key focus of this year’s event was to talk about some of the issues people are facing, with members encouraged to offer words of encouragement, advice and support.
From following the new rules like Awaab’s Law to system integration and keeping up with the demand for repairs, we covered all the current industry challenges.
Here are some of the key points:
- Strategic pressures: Clients are facing rising costs, stricter regulations (such as Awaab’s Law and TSMs) and growing tenant expectations. There’s a push to deliver more with less, and a need for smarter, data-driven decisions.
- Repairs and maintenance problems: Delays, resource shortages and system inefficiencies are making it hard to meet service targets. Improving response times, reducing void periods and streamlining processes are high priorities.
- Human challenges: Teams are under pressure with increasing workloads, burnout and the need to tailor services to vulnerable tenants. There’s also a desire to manage expectations and maintain mental wellbeing for both staff and tenants.
- Solving strategic challenges: Ideas included better use of data, integrating systems (like asset management and repairs) and clear performance tracking. A realistic look at available resources and smart planning was encouraged.
- Making life easier with ROCC: Clients want the software to be intuitive, easy to use and well supported. Tools like ROCC Orchestrator and ROCC Attend were highlighted as essential for improving workflows.
- ROCC system feedback: The Mobile application progress was recognised and the redesign applauded. Strong support from the ROCC team is appreciated, and although ROCC support is always well within any SLA targets, the group felt that expectations with ROCC are so high (due to previous performance) that the focus needs to be maintained on instant feedback and quick resolution of any issues.
- Benefits of partnering with ROCC: ROCC can help reduce costs, improve efficiency and support strategic goals. There’s real value in ROCC becoming a partner in performance, not just a platform.
Matt Watts, Head of Customer Success, ROCC: “The best part about the day was how much everyone wanted to support each other and work as a team. This has been the case at each of the last four R-SAB meetings.
“We are starting to see some really positive outcomes of group membership. In 2024, overall R-SAB delivery was £142,195, totalling 119 days of consultancy, development and internal testing.
“At the same time, total R-SAB spend was £82,400 – working out at just £20,600 per group member.
“We can’t wait for the next R-SAB in 2026. Big things lie ahead!”
Join us on this journey
We were delighted with how all R-SAB members came together to help and work as a collective unit. Working as a team, there was an infectious drive to help shape how ROCC grows and improves in the future.
We’re hugely thankful for all the great ideas and honest feedback, as it will help us to plan what to do next as an organisation.
Read more: Peter Luck, Business and Operations Director, ROCC, shared his thoughts on the day – R-SAB 2025.
Are you a housing association, local authority or maintenance contractor? We recognise you have one of the toughest jobs in housing. That’s why you deserve the right software and tools at your disposal.
For more information about the future we are building at ROCC and how our software can help you, get in touch with a member of our team.
Together, we are stronger.
