What is the role of quantity surveyor?
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The Role of Quantity Surveyors: Key Competencies and Evolving Responsibilities
Introduction to Quantity Surveying
Quantity surveying is a profession that integrates engineering, construction, and economics to manage the costs and financial aspects of building projects. Quantity surveyors (QSs) are essential in ensuring that construction projects are completed within budget and meet the required standards. Their roles have evolved significantly over time to adapt to changing client needs and industry demands.
Core Competencies of Quantity Surveyors
Cost Planning and Financial Management
One of the primary roles of a quantity surveyor is cost planning and financial management throughout the building lifecycle. This includes pre-contract processes such as the production of tender documents and post-contract processes like commercial management and cost control. QSs are responsible for ensuring that projects are financially viable and that costs are managed effectively from inception to completion.
Measurement and Valuation
Measurement and valuation of works are critical skills for quantity surveyors. They are tasked with quantifying the materials and labor required for construction projects, which forms the basis for cost estimation and budgeting. Accurate measurement and valuation are essential for preparing bills of quantities and ensuring that contractors are paid fairly for the work completed.
Contract Documentation and Administration
Quantity surveyors play a vital role in contract documentation and administration. They prepare and manage contracts between clients and contractors, ensuring that all parties understand their obligations and that the terms are adhered to throughout the project. This includes handling variations, claims, and disputes that may arise during construction.
Evolving Roles and Skills
Communication and Negotiation
As the construction industry becomes more complex, the role of quantity surveyors has expanded to include communication and negotiation skills. QSs must effectively communicate with various stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and consultants, to ensure that projects run smoothly and disputes are minimized. Negotiation skills are also crucial for resolving conflicts and achieving mutually beneficial agreements.
Sustainable Construction
The shift towards sustainable construction has introduced new competencies for quantity surveyors. They now need to be proficient in green costing, carbon cost planning, and valuing sustainable properties. This requires a deep understanding of sustainable construction practices and the ability to integrate these practices into cost management and project planning .
Value Management
Quantity surveyors are increasingly involved in value management workshops, where they contribute to optimizing project value by balancing cost, quality, and functionality. This role requires a thorough understanding of value management principles and the ability to facilitate workshops that bring together various stakeholders to achieve the best outcomes for the project.
Challenges and Future Directions
Misaligned Expectations
There are often misaligned expectations between different stakeholders regarding the proficiency levels required for contemporary and future services provided by quantity surveyors. This misalignment can lead to challenges in meeting client needs and delivering high-quality services.
International Construction
In the international construction arena, quantity surveyors face additional complexities and competition from other construction professionals. Despite these challenges, they continue to play a crucial role in representing clients and ensuring that projects are completed successfully.
Public-Private Partnerships
Quantity surveyors have a significant role in public-private partnerships (PPPs), providing cost and contractual advice to ensure that these projects are financially viable and meet the required standards. However, their involvement in PPPs can be limited, and there is potential for greater participation in the future.
Conclusion
The role of quantity surveyors is multifaceted and continually evolving to meet the demands of the construction industry. Core competencies such as cost planning, measurement, and contract administration remain essential, while new skills in communication, sustainable construction, and value management are increasingly important. As the industry continues to change, quantity surveyors must adapt and develop new competencies to remain relevant and effective in their roles.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Assessing the expected current and future competencies of quantity surveyors in the Malaysian built environment
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Sustainable construction and the versatility of the quantity surveying profession in Singapore
A study of the contractor's quantity surveying practice during the construction process
Diversification of professional quantity surveyors’ roles in the construction industry: the skills and competencies required
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Quantity Surveying Practice
Competencies of the quantity surveyor in performing for sustainable construction
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