Input shortages in turn resulted in increased numbers of delivery delays, with March seeing one of the most marked deteriorations in vendor performance in the series history since 1999. Finally, latest data showed an improvement in constructors' expectations towards future activity to a 13-month high. Phil Smith, Associate Director at IHS Markit, which compiles the survey, said, "Latest PMI data showed much steadier performances across each of the major segments of construction activity in March, following the widespread disruption caused by severe bad weather in February. However, reports from surveyed businesses indicated that the sector continued to be held back by a soft patch in new orders linked to the impact of the pandemic on clients' willingness and ability to invest, with several firms also commenting on delays in planning permissions.