Quantity Surveying

 

The discipline of Quantity Surveying, also known as quantity management or cost engineering, is a professional and engineering field that focuses on estimating and managing the costs of construction projects. This specialization aims to ensure that projects are implemented efficiently and within the specified budget while adhering to quality and technical requirements. Quantity surveyors work closely with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure project objectives are met. Here’s a comprehensive look at the main aspects of the quantity surveying major:

Initial estimation and planning:

  • Preparing preliminary estimates of project costs based on architectural drawings and specifications.
  • Develop financial plans that include cost estimates and preliminary budgets.

Preparing tender documents:

  • Preparing tender documents that include project details, terms and technical requirements.
  • Evaluate the offers submitted by contractors and choose the most appropriate offer based on costs, quality and experience.

Cost management:

  • Track project costs over time to ensure adherence to budget.
  • Analyze costs and prepare periodic reports to evaluate the financial performance of the project.

Quantity estimation:

  • Calculate the exact quantities of materials and components required for the project.
  • Using specialized software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Excel to prepare quantity estimates.

Contract Management:

  • Preparing and managing contracts between owners and contractors.
  • Ensure that all parties adhere to contractual terms and legal procedures.

Financial evaluation and audit:

  • Reviewing invoices and financial reports to ensure their accuracy and validity.
  • Conduct a periodic financial audit to ensure that there are no budget overruns.

Negotiating and managing changes:

  • Negotiating with contractors and suppliers about costs and terms.
  • Managing changes in the project and controlling costs resulting from emergency changes.

Risk Management:

  • Identify and evaluate the financial risks associated with the project.
  • Develop strategies to manage risks and reduce potential negative impacts.

Information technology in quantity surveying:

  • Using advanced software such as BIM (Building Information Model) to improve the accuracy of estimating quantities and managing costs.
  • Apply graphic analysis techniques to improve financial decision making.

Communication and collaboration:

  • Develop effective communication skills to work with engineers, architects, contractors, and clients.
  • Preparing and submitting financial and technical reports to ensure transparency of information and provide recommendations.

Professional training and development:

  • Following up on recent developments in the field of quantity surveying and participating in training courses and conferences.
  • Improving technical and administrative skills to ensure the best services are provided in projects.

Research and development:

  • Participate in research to develop new techniques and methods in quantity surveying.
  • Publishing research and participating in scientific conferences to share results and innovations.

Quantity Surveying specialization provides broad opportunities to work in multiple fields such as construction companies, engineering consulting companies, government departments, and financial institutions. This specialization contributes to achieving financial efficiency and cost management in construction projects, which contributes to successfully achieving project objectives and ensuring their sustainability.