The Evolution of the Quantity Surveyor: Adapting to the Changing Needs of the Construction Industry
Rob Hubbard
Supporting clients with sound commercial solutions on construction projects from inception to conclusion | FRICS, FCInstCES, FCIArb, FCIHT, FIHE, AMICE, MAPM
As a Chartered Quantity Surveyor in the UK, I believe it's important to discuss the ongoing debate about the relevance of traditional quantity surveying skills in today’s dynamic and ever-changing construction industry. In this latest article, I will present both sides of the argument and share my perspective on the matter.
Traditional Quantity Surveying Skills
Traditionally, a Quantity Surveyor's role in the construction industry was to manage costs and contractual agreements throughout the project life cycle. This included estimating costs, preparing tender documents, negotiating contracts, managing cash flow, and providing cost advice. Additionally, QS's were expected to have a solid understanding of construction technology, materials, and methods.
These traditional skills were seen as crucial for QS's to deliver value to their clients and to ensure successful project delivery. However, some experts argue that the modern-day construction industry has evolved, and QS's need to adapt to this change.
The Changing Role of Quantity Surveyors
Today, many construction projects are becoming more complex, with the introduction of new technology, materials, and methods. In addition, there is a growing emphasis on sustainability, health and safety, and risk management. As a result, the role of QSs has evolved, and they are often now expected to be more transactional and process-driven.
QS's are expected to manage project costs and contractual agreements using specialised software and technology, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM). They are also expected to have a good understanding of project management processes and tools, such as Lean Construction and Agile Project Management.
Furthermore, QS's are now expected to have strong communication and negotiation skills. They are often required to negotiate contracts, settle disputes, and manage relationships with stakeholders, such as clients, contractors, and suppliers.
The Controversy
The controversy surrounding the relevance of traditional quantity surveying skills arises from the fact that some experts argue that these skills are no longer necessary in today’s construction industry. They argue that QS's can rely on technology and software to manage costs and contracts, and that their role has become more transactional and process-driven.
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However, there are others who argue that traditional quantity surveying skills are still crucial for QS's to deliver value to their clients and to ensure successful project delivery. They argue that technology and software are only tools that QS's can use to support their work, but that the core skills of a QS, such as cost estimating and contract negotiation, are still essential.
My Perspective
I believe that traditional quantity surveying skills are still crucial for QS's to deliver value to their clients and to ensure successful project delivery. While technology and software have made it easier for QS's to manage costs and contracts, they are still tools that QS's can use to support their work. The core skills of a QS, such as cost estimating, contract negotiation, and risk management, are still essential for successful project delivery.
Furthermore, the modern-day construction industry is becoming more complex, with the introduction of new technology, materials, and methods. This complexity means that QS's need to have a good understanding of construction technology, materials, and methods, as well as project management processes and tools.
In addition, the role of QS's has evolved, and they are now expected to have strong communication and negotiation skills. They are often required to negotiate contracts, settle disputes, and manage relationships with stakeholders, such as clients, contractors, and suppliers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the relevance of traditional quantity surveying skills in today’s construction industry is a complex issue that requires a more in-depth analysis and discussion. As a QS, it's important to have a balance of traditional and modern skills to be successful in this dynamic industry.
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Managing Director at S.P.F. Associates Limited LLM, MCIArb
2 年Nice article if the skills are no longer required then are we not just software operators. I have concern that the modern role is a mirage of spreadsheets and cost analysis. Our main thrust of work is in dealing with change and forensic analysis. That requires a comprehensive knowledge of construction process, program analysis and the Contract, so if the modern QS just uses software do they develop the necessary knowledge? It’s for those who are along in their career to impart wisdom and embrace technology, but the QS should always look to interpret what was intended and signed up to in my opinion.
Retired Civil Engineer, NEC PM & Supervisor
2 年Traditional skills are always needed, as it is necessary that having inputted to a system, you need to have a good idea of what should come out of it. Clarity of communication, be in in a management system or face to face is essential, most importantly, listen to what's being said, or not being said. You could write a very long post on this.......................... ??
Head of Commercial and Risk | Ensuring Commercial Success and Reducing Risk
2 年Rob, good article and I absolutely agree that the traditional skills are still vital. In fact, the erosion of the use of Bills of Quantities is one of the rearly retrograde 'developments' that has affected the industry negatively.
Leading NTB Survey Ltd: Delivering Precision Surveying Solutions to Elevate Your Projects with Accuracy and Expertise
2 年Great article Rob, similar thrust of argument in the land surveying industry, selecting the correct tool for the job in hand, maintaining flexibility, awareness of technology but above all communication.