How to Become a Strong Quantity Surveyor
Becoming a strong Quantity Surveyor (QS) requires a combination of technical knowledge, practical experience, and professional development. Here are some steps you can follow to achieve strength and proficiency in the role:
1. Education & Qualifications
Degree in Quantity Surveying or Related Field
Start by obtaining a recognized degree in quantity surveying, construction management, or civil engineering. This will give you the fundamental knowledge you need in construction economics, contract law, cost planning, and project management.
Professional Certification
Aim for certification with reputable professional bodies like the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Indian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (IIQS), or similar in your region. This certification is often required for career progression and validates your expertise in the field.
2. Gain Practical Experience
Work on Real Projects
Start with entry-level roles such as Assistant Quantity Surveyor or Trainee QS. This hands-on experience is crucial for understanding how theory translates into practice, as well as learning from experienced professionals.
On-Site Exposure
Be proactive in learning from site visits and working closely with contractors, project managers, and engineers. This exposure helps you understand the challenges and intricacies of real-world construction projects.
Internships & Apprenticeships
Internships or apprenticeships with construction firms or consultancy companies are an excellent way to gain early exposure to the industry.
3. Develop Technical Skills
Cost Estimation & Budgeting
Be proficient in cost estimation techniques like Bill of Quantities (BoQ), Unit Rate Analysis, Cost Planning, and Life Cycle Costing. You’ll also need to develop a keen understanding of how to create accurate, detailed budgets and forecasts.
Knowledge of Software Tools
Learn to use industry-standard software like CostX, PlanSwift, Bluebeam, Excel, AutoCAD, Revit, MS Project, Candy. These tools are essential for managing project costs, measuring quantities, and generating reports.
Contract Management
Familiarize yourself with construction contracts such as JCT, NEC, and FIDIC. Understanding the contractual obligations, liabilities, and dispute resolution processes will make you indispensable to a project team.
4. Develop Soft Skills
Communication
Being able to clearly communicate with clients, contractors, project managers, and other stakeholders is critical. A strong QS must be able to convey complex cost information in a way that is easy to understand.
Negotiation
Strong negotiation skills are essential when discussing prices, rates, and disputes. Developing these skills will help you manage and protect project budgets effectively.
Attention to Detail
A QS needs to be meticulous, ensuring that all measurements and costs are accurate. Small mistakes can lead to large cost discrepancies.
Time Management & Organization
Managing multiple tasks, deadlines, and projects simultaneously is a key part of the job. Being organized helps in delivering projects on time and within budget.
5. Stay Updated
Continual Learning
The construction and project management fields are constantly evolving. Stay current with trends in materials, construction techniques, sustainability practices, and changes in laws or regulations affecting the construction industry.
Networking
Engage in forums, attend seminars or webinars, and join professional groups or societies. Networking can expose you to new techniques, best practices, and the latest industry news.
Professional Development
Attend workshops, courses, and certifications that can enhance your technical knowledge and leadership capabilities.
6. Specialize or Diversify
Specialization
As you gain experience, you may decide to specialize in certain types of construction projects (e.g., residential, commercial, infrastructure) or areas within quantity surveying (e.g., procurement, cost management, value engineering).
Diversify
Conversely, you could diversify your expertise by expanding into project management, risk management, or other areas related to the built environment.
7. Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking
Resolve Issues Efficiently
Strong QS professionals are known for their problem-solving abilities. If issues arise during construction (like delays or cost overruns), you should be able to find solutions that align with the project’s goals.
Critical Thinking
Be able to assess various project scenarios, foresee potential challenges, and recommend adjustments to improve outcomes without compromising the budget or timeline.
8. Professional Ethics
Integrity and Honesty
Ethical behaviour is paramount for a QS. You will need to manage large sums of money and contracts and be responsible for ensuring that your calculations and reports are truthful and unbiased.
Compliance with Legal Standards
Make sure that you’re aware of local construction laws, regulations, and ethical codes that govern your profession.
9. Leadership & Mentoring
Leadership Skills
As you progress in your career, strong leadership skills become important. You’ll be tasked with leading teams, managing budgets, and coordinating between various stakeholders.
Mentorship
Experienced Quantity Surveyors often mentor junior staff or trainees. Sharing your knowledge and insights with others will further solidify your understanding and position in the profession.
10. Building a Reputation
Consistency and Reliability
Always deliver accurate and reliable work, and meet deadlines. Building a reputation for being dependable and delivering value will earn you respect within the industry.
Contribute to Thought Leadership
Write articles, participate in conferences, or present case studies on relevant topics to establish yourself as an expert in your field.
💡 Final Thought
Strength in quantity surveying is a result of combining your education, technical expertise, practical experience, and interpersonal skills to become an asset to any construction project. As you gain experience, aim to continually improve and challenge yourself to take on more complex and diverse projects. Over time, this will set you apart as a strong and highly competent Quantity Surveyor.