In 2007, the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors conducted a market research study to better understand the issues facing those with quantity surveying jobs. Another aim was to gather opinions from the construction industry regarding the services offered by quantity surveyors. The findings of this study, which are summarised here in a series of two articles, may be of some interest to those with jobs in quantity surveying in the UK.

Like their counterparts all over the world, those with quantity surveying jobs play an important role in construction projects of all styles and sizes. These professionals have the expertise to provide independent advice on financial matters, from hiring contractors to purchasing material and equipment, and therefore carry great responsibilities. Their main function is to help clients maintain a budget surplus.

However, like their counterparts all over the world, those with jobs in quantity surveying are often expected to simply monitor the construction costs, instead of controlling them. Due to a lack of understanding by other industry professionals, the opinions of quantity surveyors are often ignored or even deliberately avoided. This ultimately leads to a budget deficit, for which the quantity surveyors must take responsibility.

One approach to dealing with this problem is for those with quantity surveying jobs to start showing greater leadership and having more control over construction projects. Indeed, in recent years there has been a shift towards the title of Cost Manager, which better reflects the role played by quantity surveyors.

For example, in order to better help his or her client manage the budget of a construction project, a quantity surveyor can be more proactive in the cost planning process by providing the architect with a wide range of cost-efficient design options. As the project evolves, these extra options enable the architect to consider various construction strategies that are sufficient to augment the general aesthetic values, rather than having to blindly abide by the original design that is likely to lack adequate budgetary guidance. This process not only enhances the management of project costs, but also helps the architect appreciate the importance of cost-efficient design.