This decision comes as an effort to clear up much confusion that the organisation has come up against over the years within its own country. Often, when FSTT members in France try to explain about trenchless works and the meaning of the FSTT, they can be met with blank stares and asked why the organisation carries an English name. Additional explanation, which usually just complicates the issue, loses the basic relevant message: the FSTT is the association that brings together all the professionals (both public and private) who believe that Trenchless Technology is good for the planet.

For the purposes of clear and effective communication, the FSTT decided to adopt a French name; one that would be instantly understandable, easy to remember and would aptly describe the organisation, as well as maintaining the original initials that are recognised throughout the industry. Basically, like looking for a needle in a haystack!

The FSTT opted to use France Sans Tranchée, but still had to find a word for the second T. The word ‘technology’ was quickly decided on and put into plural form, which indicates the diversity of techniques.

Tested on a mixed panel, the name France Sans Tranchée Technologies met the three principal criteria: immediately comprehensible, easy to remember and in line with the original acronym. The change was proposed to the board, who approved it and officially adopted the new name at the last general meeting on 11 April.

Article continues below…

The company has slowly been replacing the old name on all of its communication tools such as its letterhead, business cards and the website. It has also decided to keep the same logo for the moment, in order to maintain instant visual recognition. For international purposes, the new name poses no problem, since the organisation will still be known outside of France as the French Society for Trenchless Technology. FSTT Executive Director Dominique Guillerm said “Longue vie donc à France Sans Tranchée Technologies et aux travaux sans tranchée.”