A study was conducted in Britain between October 1990 and June 1991 to evaluate the implementation and delivery of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and the implications for the training of trainers. (NVQs are a device for assessing performance; they represent the systemization of the skills and competencies required in a wide variety of occupations and at different levels.) The study focused on the construction industry but its findings are applicable to many other industries. Data were collected through 20 in-depth interviews with key organizations concerned with the introduction of NVQs generally and in the construction industry in particular, and 7 case studies were made of a cross-section of construction companies and their off-site training providers. The research identified two sets of issues that together are inhibiting and negating the use of NVQs: (1) structures that are necessary preconditions for the implementation of NVQs are inadequate, particularly in access