Unlock insights with our exclusive report and discover the future of quantity surveying.
In an industry as dynamic as construction, staying ahead means understanding the trends, challenges, and opportunities that shape professions in the sector.
That’s why we conducted a survey across quantity surveying professionals in the UK and Ireland, compiling insights and opinions within this insightful report – Success in Quantity Surveying: Productivity, Job Satisfaction and the Role of Technology.
The aims of the survey was to reveal and underline the challenges that quantity surveyors face, identify potential solutions and highlight the importance of utilising technology, in particular to streamline valuations and the application for payment process.
Discover the challenges and experiences of your commercial peers, and their opinions about the quantity surveying profession.
Survey insights of job satisfaction
Most QS professionals express satisfaction with their roles, with 51% indicating satisfaction and 34% noting high satisfaction. This positive sentiment is foundational for maintaining high morale and motivation within the workforce.
Incredibly for such a demanding role, very few (5%) are dissatisfied or very dissatisfied. Nevertheless, identifying these workers and addressing their concerns is crucial for businesses in their efforts to improve engagement and retention.
Hand-in-hand with job satisfaction, the survey also revealed some insightful data about quantity surveyors’ inclination to recommend their profession to others.
With around 78% of respondents indicating they would either be likely or very likely to recommend their role to others, the profession is clearly one marked by substantial pride and satisfaction.
Navigating the burden of repetitive manual processes
There’s no doubt that manual administrative tasks can be burdensome, taking time away from valuable on-site activity and strategic work. Of those surveyed, 37% say that rather than software, they use spreadsheets and other manual processes to manage applications for payment.
This reliance on traditional processes consumes substantial time and introduces the risk of human error, contributing to inefficiencies and potential disputes relating to inaccurate cost calculations and payments.
In fact in relation to satisfaction with their role, 17% of those not using application for payment software claim to be dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with technology and tools available for work which is almost twice as many as those who do use application for payment software (8%).
QS professionals aspire to add strategic value
In the research, quantity surveying professionals were asked what they would allocate their time to if they could reduce administration hours. Interestingly, they are not simply looking to lighten their workload and readdress their work-life balance; there’s a desire to spend more time particularly on contract and variation management, but also self-development and training, as well as business development, tendering and strategic development.
Navigating financial risk in construction
QS professionals typically face several risks in their role. Contractual risk and managing compliance being one area of risk, with another crucial area being financial; quantity surveyors are responsible for managing project costs and budgets, and any inaccuracies in cost estimation or budgeting can lead to financial losses for the project, impacting both the client and the construction firm.
Only 28% of Non-AFP Software Users say they are fortunate enough to rarely or never encounter issues with calculation errors in applications for payment, but this rises to 43% in AFP Software Users.
Therefore by effectively managing the risk of calculation errors through technology, quantity surveyors can help minimise financial losses, ensure project success, and protect the interests of all stakeholders involved in construction projects.
To unlock more stats and insights download this report and benefit from:
- In-depth analysis: Learn from over 200 industry professionals about their experiences in job satisfaction, productivity, financial management, and technology adoption.
- Key insights: Gain access to valuable insights on how modern technologies and strategic practices are transforming roles and workflows in construction.
- Future strategies: Equip yourself with knowledge on effective practices, emerging trends, and technological advancements to drive efficiency and success in your projects.
Download the report today to discover strategies for:
- Streamlining QS processes: Discover ways to make your time more productive and maximise time on valuable activity.
- Best practice financial management: Understand what ‘good’ looks like for managing supply chain costs and maximising project profitability.
- Improving supply chain collaboration: Reduce friction with your subcontractors, particularly in relation to valuations and payments.
- Leveraging technology: Get ahead and uncover ‘quick-win’ processes that can easily be digitised.
