Anyone can be a CDM co-ordinator provided they have the appropriate level of competence for the duties they have to perform. They will need good communication and inter-personal skills to fulfil their role. They will need to have a good understanding of the design and construction process and knowledge of health and safety. The CDM co-ordinator can be a designer, contractor or a stand-alone CDM co-ordinator. The task can be shared out and the role can be combined with another role, for example project manager, designer or principal contractor. A formal appointment in writing must be made. See also Competence.