1407424167 Harding, D. Harding D Dissertation 2014

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The Future Role of the Quantity Surveyor and the impact of

the New Rules of Measurement.

Debs Harding

MSc QUANTITY SURVEYING

SCHOOL OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

APRIL 2014

Matriculation No: 061137095

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Declaration

I .. confirm that this work submitted for

assessment is my own and is expressed in my own words. Any use made

within it of the works of other authors in any form (eg. Ideas, equations,

figures, text, tables and programmes) are properly acknowledged at the

point of their use. A full list if the references employed has been included.

Signed:

Date:

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Table of Contents

Declaration 2

Contents 3

Abstract 7

Acknowledgments 8

List of Tables and Illustrations 9

Glossary of Abbreviations 11

Chapter 1 Introduction 12

1.1 Introduction 12

1.2 Rationale 13

1.3 Research Proposal 15

1.4 Aims and objectives 15

1.5 Research Methodology 16

1.6 Research Structure 18

Chapter 2 2.1 Introduction 18

2.2 Parties involved in a Construction Project 18

2.3 The Construction Supply Chain 19

2.4 The Composition of the Construction

Industry 20

2.4.1 Contracting 20

2.4.2 Services 21

2.4.3 Products 22

2.5 The Importance of the Construction

Industry 23

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2.6 The Significance of the various Industry

Reports 24

2.6.1 Latham Report (1994) 24

2.6.2 Levene Report (1995) 25

2.6.3 The Egan Report (1998) 25

2.6.4 Modernising Construction (2001) 25

2.6.5 The follow up to Egan 27

2.6.6 The Wolstenholme Report (2009) 28

2.7 RICS Reports carried out between 1967

and 1981 30

2.7.1 RICS (1967) 30

2.7.2 RICS (1971) 31

2.7.3 RICS (1983) 32

2.7.4 RICS (1991) 32

2.7.5 RICS (1998) 33

2.8 The Initial Role of the Quantity Surveyor 34

2.9 The Current Role of the Quantity Surveyor 35

2.10 SMM7 and the need for change 38

2.11 The New Rules of Measurement 41

2.11.1 NRM 1 41

2.11.2 NRM 2 45

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2.11.3 NRM 3 47

2.12 The Black Book 48

2.13 Building Information Modelling (BIM) 49

2.14 Summary 49

Chapter 3 Data Analysis 50

3.1 Introduction 50

3.2 Research Aims 50

3.3 Types of Data Collection 50

3.3.1 Qualitative Data 51

3.3.2 Quantitive Data 51

3.4 Primary and Secondary Data 51

3.5 Research Methods 51

3.6 Questionnaire 1 52

3.6.1 Parties in Question 1 52

3.7 Questionnaire 2 52

3.7.2 Parties in Question 2 53

3.8 Interviews 53

3.9 Telephone Interviews 54

3.9.1 Telephone Interview

Participants 54

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Chapter 4 Analysis of Data 55

4.1 Introduction 55

4.2 The Questionnaire 55

4.3 Interview Results 73

4.4 Software 81

4.5 Education 83

Chapter 5 Evaluation of Data 84

5.01 Introduction 84

5.02 The Construction Industry the

Various Industry and RICS Reports 84

5.03 The Role of the QS 86

5.04 Methods of Measurement SMM7 & NRM 87

Chapter 6 Conclusion 89

6.01 Introduction 89

6.02 Objective 1 89

6.03 Objective 2 90

6.04 Objective 3 91

6.05 Objective 4 92

6.06 Objective 5 93

6.07 Research Gap 93

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Abstract

The Role of the Quantity Surveyor is very complex and involves many disciplines and

personal traits. As a result of changes, within the Economy and the Construction

Industry, the role is constantly being adapted and changed. Following a period of

review and discussion, The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors introduced the

New Rules of Measurement to assist in the preparation of cost plans and measurements.

Measurement is still an important part of the Quantity Surveyors role, however, the

preparation of cost advice is equally as important. Over the past 10 years or so, a new

breed of Quantity Surveyor has emerged who is commercially aware and plays an

essential role in day-to-day running of construction project. The Contractors Quantity

Surveyor is now a key member of the Project Team.

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Acknowledgements

I would firstly like to thank my late mum and dad for their love support and

encouragement that has lead me along this path, may you both rest in peace. I would

also like to thank God for giving me the inner strength to take the path that has finally

enabled me to complete my studies. I would like to thank all my friends, and

neighbours for their support and encouragement, friends are the family that we chose

for ourselves and without good friends I would not have achieved my ultimate aim to

complete this dissertation. Special thanks to Dr Fiona Grant for her help and

encouragement in helping me to achieve something that I never thought I would.

Special thanks to my beloved boy Becks who has encouraged me in his own special

way.

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List of Tables and Illustrations.

Figure 1 Diagrammatical mind map of Dissertation.

Figure 2 The Construction Supply Chain.

Figure 3 The Composition of the UK Construction Sector.

Figure 4 United Kingdom GDP Growth Rate.

Figure 5 National Audit Office Analysis if Latham, Levene and Egan.

Figure 6 Factors Required for Better Construction Performance.

Figure 7 The Key Recommendations of Accelerating Change.

Figure 8 Survey response on the benefits since Egan.

Figure 9 The Role of the Quantity Surveyor.

Figure 10 Contents of SMM& compared to NRM2.

Figure 11 NRM Suite of Documents.

Figure 12 Logic and arrangement of cost data structure used by NRM1 and the

updated BCIS SFCA Level 1 and 2.

Figure 13 The RICS formal cost estimating and cost planning stages in context

with the RIBA Plan of Work and OGC Gateways.

Figure 14 Pie chart showing responses to question 1

Figure 15 Bar chart showing responses to question 2





Figure 20 Pie chart showing responses to questions 7

Figure 21 Bar chart showing responses to question 8 and 9

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Figure 28 Pie chart showing responses to question 16a

Figure 29 Bar chart showing responses to question 16b

Figure 30 Pie chart showing responses to question 16c

Figure 31 Pie chart showing responses software question 3

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Glossary of Abbreviations

QS Quantity Surveyor

CI Construction Industry

RICS Royal Institution of Builders

CIOB Chartered Institute of Builders

NRM New Rules of Measurement

NRM 1 New Rules of Measurement 1



SMM Standard Method of Measurement

SMM7 Standard of Method of Measurement Seventh Edition

SMM6 Standard of Method of Measurement Sixth Edition

BIM Building Information Modelling

CDM Construction Design and Management

UK United Kingdom

BCIS Building Cost Information

SFCA Standard Form of Cost Analysis

M & E Mechanical and Electrical

OGC Office of Government Commerce

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Chapter One Introduction

1.1 Introduction

The purpose of this chapter is to give an overview of the dissertation. The rationale is

detailed, followed by the research proposal, the aims and objectives set out, research

methodology given and finally a breakdown of the chapters detailed.

Figure 1: Diagrammatical Mind Map of Dissertation

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1.2 Rationale

The role of the Quantity Surveyor (QS) and the Construction Industry (CI) have both

been through significant change over the past 30 years. Long before the recent

recession, and as far back as the recession of the early eighties, it was widely known

that the CI had been labelled by Clients, The Government and the Public as having a

poor image with many projects over running in both cost and time. In an attempt to

resolve this, several industry reports were commissioned namely: The Latham Report

Constructing the Team (1994), The Egan Report Rethinking Construction (1998),

Modernising Construction (2001) National Audit Office, Egan Report Accelerating

Change (2002) and The Wolstenholme Report (2009). In the late 1960s and early

1970s, The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) noticed that Quantity

Surveying as a profession was suffering from a Crisis of Identity, so much so that it was

predicted that Quantity Surveying would soon become redundant. The RICS, therefore,

identified that there was a potential problem and commissioned several reports. The

main ones being: RICS (1971) The Future Role of the Quantity Surveyor, RICS (1983)

The Future Role of the Chartered Quantity Surveyor, RICS (1991) Quantity Surveying

2000 The Future Role of the Quantity Surveyor, RICS (1998) and The Challenge of

Change QS Think Tank: Questioning the Future of the Profession. QSs play a key

role in ensuring that construction projects are delivered both on time and within budget.

As a result of the Industry and the RICS reports, the role of the QS has been reinvented

several times from its initial role as Measurer. The current role of the QS is to

manage costs on building projects from early conception to completion and as a result

enhancing value for money.

Following the collapse of the World Banking system in 2008, the World Economy has

been in a fragile state and in an attempt to survive top Construction corporations were

forced to adapt. Unfortunately as a result of change there was also an element of

collateral damage. Due to the recent recession the CI has been in a severe state of

decline, with the number of large commercial, residential and infrastructure projects

being vastly reduced. The Economic downturn during 2008 and 2013 has, had a severe

detrimental effect on the CI, and apart from there being a vast number of redundancies,

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tender margins have also been slashed and several Companies have been operating at

break-even and also negative margins in an attempt to remain in business. On a more

positive note, the recent financial indicators show that the economy is showing signs of

improvement. It has been hinted that 2014 will be the biggest growth year since the

recession. Mair (2014) recently reported that the CI is currently in a period of growth

rising for the first time in five years with employment in the CI being required in all

areas of the United Kingdom. It is however of paramount importance that lessons are

learnt from the recent period of austerity and that tight financial controls are maintained.

QSs are responsible for controlling costs on a project from the initial cost plan stage to

the final completion stage. It was identified that the information completed at cost plan

stage was of paramount significance to a project as this was used by Clients when

establishing their construction budget. Benge (2009) highlighted that there was a need

to change in the way that Cost Plans were prepared. Ashworth (2010) identified how

during 2008 The RICS and the Construction Faculty set up a Steering Group, The

Measurement Initiative Steering Group, identified issues associated with the

measurement of building works at all stages of the design and construction process and

as defined by Benge (2010) to develop a suite of measurement rules to support the cost

management and procurement of construction projects from cradle to grave dealing

with cost estimating and cost planning. The suite of measurement rules introduced

was The New Rules of Measurement (NRM) a suite of documents developed by the

(RICS) to set out a standard set of measurements rules that can be understood by all

parties involved in a project. According to the RICS the documents are the most

significant thing to happen in the industry in 25 years.

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1.3 The Research Proposal

The purpose of this dissertation is to analyse the journey of the QS from Standard

Method of Measurement of Building Works Seventh Edition (SMM7) to New Rules of

Measurement (NRM) the associated Black Book and the implications of Building

Information Modelling (BIM) and to establish whether or not any of these changes will

assist the QS in recreating their identity within the CI and whether or not their

implementation will assist in projects becoming more efficient.

1.4 Aims and Objectives

To reach this objective it will be necessary to:

Analyse the findings of the RICS and Industry reports and establish how the role

of the QS has had to change due to current market trends and changes in

legislation.

Review current academic literature and establish why the role of the QS has been

in crisis for a number of years and to identify the ways in which the role of the QS

has been vastly diversified over the last few years and therefore identify the

current role of the QS.

Analyse the background to and the introduction of the New Rules of Measurement

within the Industry and how it can be implemented to ensure that the role of the

QS can be reinvented.

Carry out a brief overview of SMM7 versus the New Rules of Measurement and

to establish why the RICS felt that it was time for change.

Identify how the NRM is being filtered into student syllabus and what training

companies need to implement.

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1.5 Research Methodology

In order to reach the objectives the following research will be carried out:

An overview of the CI since the Eighties will be given in order to establish

whether or not changes within the Industry have led to an alteration in the role of

the QS.

In order to research the impact of NRM it will be necessary to carry out both a

Questionnaire based study and a series of Interviews. The Research based

questionnaire will be aimed at a variety of QS across all fields of the industry.

The Interviews would provide more precise responses.

Research will also need to be carried out on how Universities are filtering the

New Rules of Measurement into their Syllabus. This will be done by collecting

information from Course Descriptors of various Universities.

There will also be a requirement to analyse the impact that the NRM has had in

Estimating Software. Again a brief Questionnaire will be formulated and

forwarded to several Software Companies in order to establish this.

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1.6 Research Structure

The Research will be broken down into the following Chapters:

Chapter 1 Introduction

Chapter 2 Literature Review

An overview of the Construction Industry

The Role of the Quantity Surveyor

The New Rules of Measurement

Chapter 3 Data Gathering

Chapter 4 Analysis of all Data

Chapter 5 Evaluation of Data

Chapter 6 Conclusions

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Chapter Two - Literature Review

2.1 Introduction

The aim of this chapter is to carry out a literature review relating to the role of the QS

and their future position within the CI (CI). The chapter provides an insight into the CI

followed by a review of the role of the QS, in particular in relation to the findings of the

Reports carried out by the RICS between the periods of 1967 1998. There will be also

be an overview of the NRM along with, the Black Book and a brief review on how

Building Information Modelling (BIM) can support the New Rules of Measurement.

2.2 The Parties involved in a Construction Project.

This Dissertation is concerned in particular with the future role of the QS, it is should

however be noted that the QS is part of a team of Professionals. Construction Projects

involve several different professionals and parties such as Architects; Structural

Engineers; Main Contractors; Services Engineers and Construction Design and

Management (CDM) Co-ordinators who all play an active part in the Construction

Project at differing stages. These professionals all work independently, either directly

for the Client, or the Contractor, they all make decisions that ultimately affect each

other and the construction project. All parties to a project are important as they are all

links in the chain.

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2.3 The Construction Supply Chain

As highlighted in The Department for Business Innovation and Skills Report (July

2013), the supply chain within the CI is large with most of the resources being sourced

within the UK, and approximately 90% of the monies spent on construction projects

staying within the UK. Kwakye (1997) identified that the CI is fragmented in the way

it undertakes works, the range of companies carrying out the works and the complex

nature of its structure. Morledge et.al (2006) developed this theory and noted that the

fragmentation of the industry means that it tends to be a diverse supply markets from

which Clients may source their specific needs. The Industry does have a number of

large organisations, however, it is made up predominantly of a high number of small to

medium sized enterprises and a vast amount of works are carried out by subcontractors.

The CI has a high amount of people working on a Freelance basis whom work with

several different Private Practices, Consultants and Contractors. Refer to diagram

below:

Figure 2: The Construction Supply Chain

Source: Department for Business Innovation and Skills Report UK Construction: An economic analysis of the

Sector (July 2013)

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2.4 Composition of the Construction Industry

The CI has been defined by Towey (2012) as being a generic term for the service

industry that forms part of the nations economy, carrying out the planning, design,

construction, alteration, refurbishment, maintenance, repair and demolition of

structures. Whereas Cartlidge (2013) identified the CI as a unique, complex and often

fragmented industry. According to Harvey et.al (1997) The CI has literally built

Great Britain. The CI covers a variety of areas including, Housing Building, Private

Finance Initiative (PFI), Infrastructure, Industrial Construction, and Commercial

Construction. Works are undertaken for both Public and Private Clients and are

therefore, a major part of the Economic make-up of the United Kingdoms Economy.

Construction is an extremely valuable source of employment for a variety of individuals

involved in many different and variable roles from the field of Main Contracting,

Developing, All Trades Sub-contracting, and Self-Employment in both the Private and

Public Sector and Consultancies. The CI currently employs a vast no of people who

work in a Freelance basis for a variety of Client, Private Practice, Consultancies and

Contractors. There are also the fringe workers such as those who operate the plant

machinery on construction sites, haulage companies who deliver and take away

materials and of course catering companies. This makes for employment and a healthy

economy.

The Industry has three main sectors:

1. Contracting

2. Services

3. Products.

2.4.1 Contracting

Contracting is by far the largest of the three sectors as identified in The Department for

Business Innovation and Skills Report (July 2013),it can be apportioned as covering

70% of the sector. Contracting includes all aspects of Construction works from the

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construction of buildings, infrastructure works and specialist activities. Construction

works can be either commercial or residential and can be for either private or public

clients. Construction works can therefore be either on an extremely vast or small scale.

Infrastructure includes the construction of civil engineering works such as Roads,

Bridges, Tunnels, and Utilities. Specialist activities include plumbing, electrical,

decoration, roofing, roughcasting, plastering and demolition to name but a few.

Specialist works are very often carried out on construction projects by subcontractors

who have specialised in their particular trades. Due to the number of Design and Build

and Contractor Design Works Contracting can also include some service works from

Architects and Structural Engineers. Contractor will very often have their own

Commercial Team which will be made up of QSs and Construction Estimators.

2.4.2 Services

The Services Sector is the second largest sector and as identified in The Department for

Business Innovation and Skills Report (July 2013), can be apportioned as covering

15.5% of the sector. The Services sector includes the Professional Services of

Architects, Structural Engineers, Services Engineers, CDM Co-ordinators, QSs,

Wholesale Suppliers and the Renting and Leasing of Construction Equipment.

Professional Services are carried out on construction projects both at Pre Construction

and Construction stages. Wholesale suppliers are responsible for the procurement and

supply of the various construction materials involved in any form of construction

project. The Contractor relies on a vast number of such suppliers to provide all elements

of materials required for the construction of their projects. The Wholesale suppliers will

work closely with the Contractors ensuring that all of the critical path elements of the

project are covered. Renting and Leasing of Construction Equipment include items

such as the various dumpers, diggers, mobile towers, skips and portaloos required on a

construction project.

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2.4.3 Products

The Products Sector is smallest sector and, as identified in The Department for Business

Innovation and Skills Report (July 2013), can be apportioned as covering 14.5% of the

sector. The Products Sector includes the manufacture of construction products and

materials. The manufacture of construction products and materials are an important part

of the construction process. The Products Sector works closely with Wholesale

Suppliers to ensure that they can supply the materials that the suppliers demand. The

Products Sector will also be in close communication with Architects to ensure that they

are aware of all of the latest materials.

A diagram showing the composition of the UK construction sector is shown

below:

Source: Department for Business Innovation and Skills Report UK Construction: An economic analysis of the

Sector (July 2013)

Figure 3: The Composition of the UK Construction Sector

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2.5 The importance of the Construction Industry to the UK Economy

The CI is not just an important part of the UK Economy, the industry has worldwide

importance. As a result of this worldwide importance, many of the UKs larger

organisations and it must be said some of the smaller organisations are now involved in

working internationally. Harvey et.al (1997) identified the importance of the CI as

being a result of rapid growth in the late 1980s. Cartlidge (2013) noted that the CI is a

major player in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and that the CI in 2011 had a

turnover of almost 100 billion which equates to almost 8.5% of the GDP. Hillebrant

(1984) noted the net contribution of the industry in 1981 as being 6.4 percent. Harvey

et.al (1997) note the GDP as 6%. The Department for Business Innovation and Skills

Report (July 2013) identified that Construction is one of the largest sectors in the UK

economy and comprises almost 90 billion to the UK Economy. The CI is therefore an

extremely important commodity made up of a range of products, services and

technologies. As shown in the diagram below the UK GDP improved following a long

period of decline.

Source: Trading Economies -www.tradingeconomics.com/united-kingdom/gdp- 26th February 2014

Figure 4 United Kingdom GDP Growth Rate

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2.6 The Significance of the Various Construction Industry Reports

During the nineteen eighties and early nineteen nineties, the CI had an extremely poor

image. Due to this poor image and in an attempt to deliver value for money, several

reports have been written namely:

1. The Latham Report Constructing the Team (1994)

2. The Levene Report - The Levene Efficiency Scrutiny into Construction

Procurement by Government (1995)

3. The Egan Report Rethinking Construction (1998)

4. Modernising Construction (2001) National Audit Office

5. The follow up to the Egan Report Accelerating Change (2002)

6. The Wolstenholme Report (2009)

Each of these reports highlighted ways of making improvements within the industry.

2.6.1 The Latham Report Constructing the Team (1994)

Following a period of lapse in the CI and several controversial issues, The Latham

Report was commissioned jointly by the Government and the CI, with invaluable

participation of Clients. The report was aimed at reviewed procurement and contractual

arrangements. As noted in Wikipedia, Latham identified industry inefficiencies,

condemning existing industry practices as 'adversarial', 'ineffective', 'fragmented',

'incapable of delivering for its clients' and 'lacking respect for its employees'. Latham

made a total of 53 recommendations, several of which were radical. The main ones

relate to best practice clients, the establishment of a construction clients forum,

adjudication, guidance on partnering, roles and responsibilities of construction parties

and building services design being defined.

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2.6.2 The Levene Report - The Levene Efficiency Scrutiny into Construction

Procurement by Government (1995)

Following on from Latham the Levene Report was commissioned by the Cabinet

Office to review Procurement and Best Practice in relation to Government Contracts.

2.6.3 The Egan Report Rethinking Construction (1998)

The Egan Report Rethinking Construction (1998) was commissioned by John Prescott

on scope for improving quality and efficiency in UK Construction. The Report

identified five key drivers of change that should set the agenda for the CI at large. The

Report proposed that if the UK CI was to improve there needed to be radical change in

the way we build. The Report set objectives that within a 5 year period the CI delivers

its products to its customers in the same way as the best consumer-lead manufacturing

and service industries.

2.6.4 Modernising Construction (2001) National Audit Office

This Report was ordered by the House of Commons. The report was split into three

sections -

The challenge improving construction performance.

Improving Client and Supplier Performance

Procuring.

Modernising Construction reviewed previous reports focusing in particular on the

recommendations. Each of these recommendations was closely scrutinised to ascertain

whether or not they have been implemented. The Report identified that these reports

have identified a number of fundamental barriers that need to be overcome if

construction performance was to improve and become more cost-effective. The report

tabulated the key reviews Refer to Figure 5.

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Source: Modernising Construction 2001

Figure 5 National Audit Office analysis of Latham, Levene and Egan

The Report also noted in order to achieve a better construction performance there would

be a requirement to ensure that Better Construction is fit for purpose for a specific

purpose and that it meets the requirements of its end user. This information was

collated by analysing the findings of the Latham, Levene and Eugene.

Refer to Figure 6 below:

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Figure 6 Factors Required for Better Construction Performance.

2.6.5 The follow up to the Egan Report Accelerating Change (2002)

This Report was an extension of Rethinking Construction. The Report covered topics

such as Strategic Direction and Targets, Client Leadership, Supply side Integration and

Integrated Teams. The Report made 21 key recommendations.

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A diagram of the key recommendations is detailed below:

Source: The Egan Report - Accelerating Change (2002)

Figure 7 The Key Recommendations of Accelerating Change.

2.6.6 The Wolstenholme Report (2009)

The Wolstenholme Report reviewed the findings of the reports since Egan and

identified that the need for change was still as strong today as it was in 1998. A factor

that needs to be considered is that, at the time of publication of the previous reports, the

economy was buoyant whereas 2009 was during a long period of recession.

The Report analysed the blockers to change as Business and Economic Models,

Capability, Delivery Model, and Industry Structure. The Report carried out a

review to establish the benefits to the Industry since Egan 1998. The main

benefits are shown in the following figure 8.

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Figure 8: Survey responses on the benefits since Egan.

The Report identified key 8 requirements. The report highlighted the key elements for

change in the Industry for Suppliers, The Government and Client as being a new vision

for the Industry based on the concept of the built Environment. This means

understanding how value is created over the whole life cycle of an asset, rather than

simply looking at the building cost which is only part of the total equation.

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2.7 RICS Reports carried out between 1967 and 1998

During a thirty year period, spanning from the late nineteen sixties to the late nineteen

nineties, the RICS wrote a number of reports each analysing the role of the QS and how

it could adapted and further developed. Topics considered included changes in

construction practices, design, construction process, tendering and procurement, and

changes in the CI.

These reports included:

1. RICS (1967) Evolving the Quantity Surveyor

2. RICS (1971) The Future Role of the Quantity Surveyor

3. RICS (1983) The Future Role of the Chartered Quantity Surveyor

4. RICS (1991) Quantity Surveying 2000 The Future Role of the Quantity

Surveyor

5. RICS (1998) and The Challenge of Change QS Think Tank: Questioning

the Future of the Profession.

2.7.1 RICS (1967) Evolving the Quantity Surveyor

The Research for this Report was carried out by the Quantity Surveying Research and

Information Group (QSRIG) as a result of their research the role of the QS was defined

as working from initial measurement after it had been executed then measuring and

valuing building works before work commenced.

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2.7.2 RICS (1971) The Future Role of the Quantity Surveyor

The research in RICS (1971) indicated that there was a need for change and that the

profession was becoming concerned with the economic and financial aspects of

construction projects and, as well as carrying out its duties relating to tendering and

contracts along with measurement, it should ensure that necessary control measures are

put in place to protect the client. The results highlighted a need to concentrate on

factors such as population growth, economic measures, political activities, and

increasing abilities of clients and design. Additionally, due consideration should be

given also to technological changes such as the computer and the need for industrialised

buildings. The QS needed to become more familiar with Mechanical and Electrical

Services and Civil Engineering along with diversification into the field of contracting.

There was also a requirement for the QS to become more acquainted with project co-

ordination, environmental economics, cost engineering and production and resources

control.

2.7.3 RICS (1983) The Future Role of the Chartered Quantity Surveyor

The research within RICS (1983) was carried out by four study groups set up by The

Quantity Surveyors Divisional Council. Each group was responsible for reflecting on

how the role of the QS should be developed. As a result research, it was identified that

following the previous reports, the role of the QS had further developed into the fields

of manpower planning, resource controls and analysing the effect of time on

construction projects. The QSs expertise within the CI embraces many skills.

However it also emerged that the role needs to be further developed in the areas of

policy making, numerate skills, strategic planning and contracting. The changing role

in relation to political and economic policies is another essential part of the QSs role.

The building procurement function and how the QS should become more involved in

Construction Management, multi-disciplinary working, diversity in procurement total

costs which encompasses the area of life cycle costs were also considered. The Report

indicated that the traditional Bills of Quantities prepared using SMM7 may be side

stepped for a more abbreviated and streamlined document. This was therefore one of

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the first indications that there was a need for change in the way that Bills of Quantities

are prepared and that SMM7 was outdated.

2.7.4 RICS (1991) Quantity Surveying 2000 The Future Role of the QS

RICS (1991) comprises of four main areas: changing markets, a changing industry, the

profession in transition and challenges in the 1990s. Research results revealed that the

services the QS would need to be increasingly developed to meet efficient standards.

With the advancement of technology it was widely expected that computer technology

would soon stream line the role of the QS. The introduction of computer assisted

billing and estimating packages signposted Information technology as the way ahead.

During this period there was an increased requirement for Industrialised Building and

the associated processes which would ultimately result in a greater use of performance

specifications the QS would be required to consider and understand the costing of

these buildings.

Mechanical and Electrical Services, Civil Engineering and Contracting, was considered

and it was noted that as this was a particular specialised area, Clients were not

necessarily receiving the best cost advice. Therefore, there was a requirement for the

development of knowledge and specialism in this area. It was suggested that QSs were

given the appropriate additional training to ensure that they could be appointed into

managerial roles with high levels of responsibility.

It highlighted that during the 1980s there was a vast change in the pattern of

construction investment with a change from public to private funded construction work

and as a result QSs had to adapt to changes in both the procurement and organisation of

construction work. In contrast to this, it was noted that Construction companies were

using Specialist Sub-Contractors and that Main Contractors were becoming increasingly

involved in the Design process.

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2.7.5 RICS (1998) and The Challenge of Change QS Think Tank: Questioning

the Future of the Profession.

RICS (1998) investigated the future role of the QS in relation to changing markets, a

changing industry, and the profession in transition and the challenges in the 1990s. It

was forecasted that there would be key developments in private commercial

development, retail developments, public building, private house building, industrial

building, repair, maintenance and improvements and major infrastructure works. The

report highlighted that the CI was on the brink of major change and therefore there

would be the opportunity of new challenges for the Quantity Surveying profession as a

whole. It was envisaged that the QS would have a much more involved role in housing,

civil engineering and repair and maintenance.

A need for QSs to become more involved in the new geographical markets was

considered in RICS (1998). The expanded market meant that there was more

requirement for the services of QSs who would evolve in the existing market or

diversify into the new work areas. The advanced improvements in Computer

Technology were also reviewed and it was identified that several Software programmes

were currently being developed that would be able to replace some of the duties

currently carried out by the QS.

The report focused on the future role of the Contractors Quantity Surveyor (CQS) and

highlighted skills that candidates would be required to have. The tasks that would be

carried out by the CQS included, project strategy work, procurement advice, initial and

detailed cost planning, Bills of Quantities, preparing tender and contract documents,

cost management, final accounts, monitoring work, project auditing / analysis,

employers agent, construction management, dispute resolution specialist, information

manager and facilities management.

34

2.8 The Initial Role of the Quantity Surveyor

The role of the QS is as noted by Towey (2012), unfamiliar to the public. This could

be a result of the various activities carried out by a QS, thus making the role difficult to

define. The role of the QS is however a role that is familiar within the CI. Towey

(2012) defined the initial role of the QS in the 17th

Century as that of measurer,

whilst during the 19th

Century the role had evolved whereby the QS was responsible for

the production of schedules which quantified building materials along with plant and

labour. These schedules were forwarded to builders for pricing: the theory behind this

was that all builders when pricing the information based their prices on the same

information thus enabling the tenders to be easily analysed. Morton (2008) confirmed

that the construction of the Houses of Parliament in the 1830s was a great landmark in

the history of the QS, as it was one of the first buildings to be approved of detailed

drawings and a bill of quantities based on them. Traditionally the role of the QS was

to work with the Client preparing tender documents and valuing building works carried

out by the Main Contractor on a development. The QS who carried out this role was

usually heavily involved in measurement known as a Private Quantity Surveyor (PQS).

As a result of improvements in the CI and a need for the Client to achieve value for

money, Main Contractors are more commercially aware than they used to be and, as a

result, the role of the Contractors QS has evolved. The Contractors Quantity Surveyor

(CQS) is responsible for all aspects associated with the running of a building project

from Cost Planning, Estimating, Contract Administration and sometimes Project

Management. Contractors QSs are often called Commercial Managers, and they are

responsible for all aspects of procurement and cost control.

35

2.9 The Current Role of the Quantity Surveyor

Towey (2012) and Walker and Wilkie (2002) identified that Commercial Managers

within Main Contracting Organisations are responsible for budgets and forecasting;

interim valuations for both the Client and the various Subcontractors; Cost Value

Comparisons; Contracts, certificates and Notices and the preparation of contracts for

subcontractors. The Commercial Manager will also be involved in working with supply

chain procurement, running the project in conjunction with the Project Manager,

Measurement and Quantities, Project Commencement and Project Completion. The

current role of the QS in both the Private Practice and Main Contracting are now more

complex and far removed from the initial role of measurer.

QSs are becoming increasingly involved in the areas as noted in the table below:

Procurement

Routes

Harvey et.al (2007) defines Procurement as the process that

is used to deliver construction projects. The correct choice

of procurement route is of major importance in a Construction

Project. Morledge et al (2006) highlights that strategies for

procurement of new construction projects have been

significantly changed over the last 25 years.

Construction

Management

Construction Management has been defined by Harvey et.al

(2007) as the process whereby the client appoints a

Construction Manager who will be responsible for the overall

control of the Design Team and Trade Contractors throughout

the Design and Construction stages of the project.

36

Cost Planning

Harvey et.al (2007) defines cost planning as not simply a

method of pre-tender estimating, but seeks also to offer a

controlling mechanism during the design stage expenditure

is controlled to offer the Client value for money. Cost

planning is a critical part of a QSs role. Ferry et al (2007),

Ferry et al (2005) and Harvey et.al (2007) all highlight the

principles of cost planning requirements from inception to

conception. It is widely known that Clients always remember

the first figure that is presented to them with regards to a

construction budget. The preparation of a cost plan is

therefore an extremely important part of the role of a QS.

The introduction of NRM1 has aided the preparation of

Elemental Cost Plans.

Preparation of

tender and contract

documents and

appraisals

Cartlidge (2013) reviews the tender process and contract

documents. Towey (2012) reviews the appraisal process. The

preparation of tender and contract documents along with

appraisals are all key elements associated with the day to day

activities of the QS it is therefore essential that these

documents are all prepared correctly.

Project

Management

Cartlidge (2011) highlighted how QSs are becoming involved

in Project Management.

Mechanical and

Electrical

Engineering

Mechanical and Electrical Engineering is a highly specialised

area and not all QSs can adapt to the requirements of this area.

QSs working in this area require to be familiar with all aspects

of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering.

37

Construction

Design and

Management

(CDM)

responsibilities

The introduction of Construction Design and Management

regulations has seen QSs being increasingly involved in all

aspects of Health and Safety from the preparation of Health

and Safety Policies to Method Statements and the Control of

Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Assessments and

also Health and Safety Plans. Additionally QSs need to be

aware Pre Tender Health and Safety requirements on a project

when preparing costs.

Value Engineering

Value management and value engineering both maximise the

functional value of the project, and are associated with clearly

defined objectives and effective communications between the

correct people with the correct skills.

Estimating

Cartlidge (2013) describes estimating as one of the core skills

of QSs. Contractors QSs are usually heavily involved in both

pre and post contract duties. The preparation of an estimate

involves obtained quotations for all the materials and plant

elements of the project. The QS when preparing an estimate

will be responsible for submitting certain packages to various

Subcontractors to price. There will also be a requirement to

price up works that are to be carried out in house by using a

series of labour outputs. The material and plant costs of these

elements will be added and an adjudication process will then

be carried out in which a decision will be made regarding the

percentages to be added to the costs to cover both overheads

and profit.

Table 1: The roles of the Quantity Surveyor.

38

2.10 The Standard Method of Measurement and the need for change

The Standard Method of Measurement (SMM) was first published by The Royal

Institution of Chartered Surveyors in 1922 as a means of providing a uniform basis for

measuring building works and embodying the essentials of good practice. Over the

years this document has been updated and reissued several times. The Seventh Edition -

Standard Method of Measurement 7 (SMM7) was published originally in 1988 and

revised in 1998. Benge (2009) pointed out that documents, prepared using the Standard

Method of Measurement documents, were aimed at preparing Bill of Quantities to

obtain tender prices. There were no specific guidelines for the QS to use when

preparing Cost Plans and Cost Estimates and therefore QSs tried to adapt the principles

of the SMM which invariably lead to inconsistencies. For this reason, Clients were not

entirely confident that the costs produced were accurate. Benge (2012), pointed out that

SMM has served the industry since 1922 and over the years has been revised 7 times,

the last major revision being in 1998. Since then construction methods have changed

and coupled with the Clients increased requirements for best value have suggested that

it is time for change.

On 1st January 2013 SMM7 was superseded by NRM2 and all future documents should

now be prepared using NRM2.

SMM7 has 22 items noted for splitting up measurements whereas NRM2 has 41.

NRM2 should allow a more detailed breakdown of the respective elements of the

building.

The following table compares the contents of SMM7 with NRM2. From this table it is

apparent that SMM7 can no longer meet the requirements that QSs require when billing

current buildings.

39

Table comparing contents Source: Designing Buildings WIKI

Figure 10: Contents of SMM7 compared to NRM2

40

As noted by Earl (2006), during the initial development stage of NRM, the Steering

Group identified that Quantities are, without doubt, the best control of cost on a

project. The group also identified that Somebody has to quantify the building works

and the best person to do this is the QS. During the early stages of the development of

the NRM suite it was noted that members continue to use SMM7 and also nobody uses

measurement anymore.

41

2.11 The New Rules of Measurement

The NRM Suite of Documents showing the interaction between the RICS New Rules of

Measurement and the BCIS Standard Form of Cost Analysis

Figure 11: NRM Suite of Documents

The New Rules of Measurement is a suite of documents set up by the RICS and a

Construction Steering Group. These documents are made up of three volumes:

Volume 1: Order of Cost Estimating and Elemental Cost Planning First Edition

Published March 2009. Amended to Order of Cost Estimating and Cost Planning

for Capital Building Works - Second Edition Published 2012.

Volume 2: Construction Quantities and Works Procurement Published 2012.

Volume 3: Maintenance and Operation Cost Planning and Procurement. -

Expected to be published January 2015.

42

Group element Element 0 Facilitating works 0.1 Toxic/hazardous material removal

0.2 Major demolition works 0.3 Temporary supports to adjacent structures 0.4 Specialist und ks 0.5 Temporary diversion works 0.6 Extraordinary site investigation works

1 Substructure 1.1 Substructure 2 Superstructure 2.1 Frame

2.2 Upper floors 2.3 Roof 2.4 Stairs and ramps 2.5 External walls 2.6 Windows and external doors 2.7 Internal walls and partitions 2.8 Internal doors

3 Internal finishes 3.1 Wall finishes 3.2 Floor finishes 3.3 Ceiling finishes

4 Fittings, furnishings and equipment 4.1 Fittings, furnishings and equipment 5 Services 5.1 Sanitary installations

5.2 Services equipment 5.3 Disposal installations 5.4 Water installations 5.5 Heat source 5.6 Space heating and air conditioning 5.7 Ventilation systems 5.8 Electrical installations 5.9 Fuel installations/systems 5.10 Lift and conveyor installations 5.11 Fire and lightning protection 5.12 Communication, security and control systems 5.13 Specialist installations/systems 5.14 Builde s work in connection with services

Figure 12: Logic and arrangement of the cost data structure used by NRM1

and the updated BCIS SFCA Levels 1 and 2 Extracted from RM1 Source

Construction Journal April-May 2012.

2.11.1 New Rules of Measurement Volume 1 Order of Cost Estimating and Cost

Planning for Capital Building Works NRM1

This document provides rules of measurement for the preparation of order of cost

estimates and elemental cost plans. The following diagram shows how the cost plan

can be broken down into the respective Five elements of Substructure, Superstructure,

Internal Finishes, Fittings, furnishings and equipment and Services. Each element can

be further broken down into sub elements thus providing a fully detailed breakdown of

costs.

43

As noted in Earl (2012) NRM1 has been recently been updated in line with comments

from practitioners. Eight key changes were made Benge (2012) highlights these key

changes. These changes were made to simplify and augment certain aspects of the rules.

Changes were also made to strengthen the link between the method of measurement and

how contractors procure works. Earl (2012) clarified that the Building Cost

Information Services (BCIS) Standard Form of Cost Analysis (SFCA) was updated in

line with the NRM Suite. Benge (2011) further clarifies how the use of NRM1

demonstrates a responsible approach to the cost management of construction projects.

Benge (2011) also noted that NRM1 represents the essentials of good practice and the

cornerstone of good cost management of construction projects. Cost Plans should,

under NRM1 be prepared in line with the requirements of the RIBA Work Stages; RICS

Cost Estimating and Elemental Cost Planning Stages and the OGC Gateway.

Refer to Figure 13.

44

Source: New Rule of Measurement 1

Figure 13: The RICs formal cost estimating and cost planning stages in context

with the RIBA Plan of Work and OGC Gateways (adapted for the RIBA Outline

Plan of Work 2007.

45

2.11.2 New Rules of Measurement Volume 2: Construction Quantities and Works

Procurement NRM2

The main difference between SMM7 and NRM2 according to Benge (2012)

that NRM2 rules for quantifying building works items now reflect current construction

practices. NRM2 also addresses all aspects of bills of quantities (BOQ) production,

including defining the information requirements and dealing with the quantification of

non-measureable work items, contractor-designed works and risks. Benge (2012) also

gives a review of how NRM2 deals with Preliminaries; non-measureable works such as

provisional sums and Contractor-designed works; risks works to be carried out by

statutory undertakers; overheads and profits; credits and other pricing considerations

such as price fluctuations; directors adjustment; day works; VAT. Benge (2012) further

reviews how NRM2 has been devised to consider the implications of BIM. NRM2 can

be utilised and developed when preparing a bill of quantities which includes bespoke

items.

An overview of NRM2 was detailed by Davidson (2012) and it was highlighted how it

should satisfy the needs of different parties within the CI. Davidson (2012) also points

out that a firm understanding of construction technology and an ability to measure

construction works are two core skills that QSs need if they are to properly provide

construction cost advice to clients. Davidson (2012) confirms the previously noted

comments that SMM was vastly out of date and did not suit the requirements needed

today by QSs if they are to offer a best value service to their Clients. It was also

highlighted how the QS and Construction Professional Group that were set up in 2003

to review Construction Measurement. Additionally, SMM7 had several items

throughout the document for extra over items which meant that a QS had to trawl

through the drawings and tediously all of the items, whereas in NRM2 these items are

all deemed to be included. Davidson (2012) describes the main benefit of NRMs that

should allow any QS to measure any type of construction work. There is also an

example of how the NRM2 sets out bill items under five main columns.

46

Davidson (2012) details several main comparisons between NRM2 and SMM7. The

main changes detailed include: - NRM2 has a list of items within the rules section

which are detailed as being Mandatory in preparing a Bill of Quantities the QS must

fully describe the work element so that the tenderer can fully price the work item.

NRM2 allows for composite descriptions to be included. Prime cost work and

provisional work is more clearly defined. A Works Section for off-site manufacturing is

included. Working space is now deemed to be included when measuring excavations.

Earthwork support is no longer measurable unless the use is not left to the discretion of

the contractor. In-situ concrete is now categorised into vertical and sloping. Common

rules apply to types of masonry. In essence, the works items have all been up dated to

reflect current working methods on site. The Estimator when pricing a BOQ prepared

using NRM2 should, in theory, be able to prepare a more cost effective tender as the

descriptions of works within the BOQ should include much more detailed breakdowns

and descriptions of works.

Davidson (2012) notes that M&E services are still described by their differing systems

but the measurement is simplified, concentrating in principal elements. This change

makes it much easier for M&E Services works to be both billed and priced. Using

SMM7, if a QS was billing a heating installation, they would be required to measure

and quantify every metre of copper pipe, bends, tees, insulation etc. along with each

individual radiator and valve to be measured and the Estimator would be required to rate

these accordingly.

47

2.11.3 New Rules of Measurement Volume 3: Maintenance and Operation

Cost Planning and Procurement NRM3

NRM3 is currently being developed and is due for publication early in January 2015.

The prime function of the NRM suite of documents is defined by Green (2013) as to

provide consistent rules and guidelines for the quantification and measurement of

capital, maintenance and renewal works.

Klein (2007) highlighted how the construction sector has the reputation of making

lowest initial costs the basis of investment decisions, but future procurers of buildings

cannot afford to ignore sustainability requirements. Whole life cycle costing is a

phenomenon that needs to be considered when costing a building. Ashworth et. al

(2007) defines whole life cycle cost plans as a combination of initial, maintenance,

replacement, energy, cleaning and management costs.

Green (2013) pointed out how links from costs plans produced using NRM1, can be

made to the maintainable elements of a building in NRM3. Blackburn (2013) Reviews

the potential political impact of NRM3 on the built asset cost maintenance. The paper

notes how, due to the current economic climate, the Government has reduced budgets

for both Public Construction and Repair and Maintenance. There are strong indications

that the Economy is finally in a state of recovery and therefore the Government should

hopefully be in a position to review budgets and for construction works to commence.

The whole life cycle cost of these buildings could be reviewed and implemented thus

ensuring that the projects are cost effective.

48

2.12 The Black Book

The RICS define the The RICS Quantity Surveyor and Construction Standards as a

comprehensive suite of documents that defines good technical standards for QS and

Construction Professionals. The documents are written as RICS guidance notes and are

aimed at providing advice to RICS members on aspects of their work. Where

procedures are recommended, they are intended to represent best practice. These

documents are an invaluable source of reference for QSs, particularly for Students

preparing for their Assessment of Professional Competence when read in conjunction

with RICS Pathway to qualifying in Quantity Surveying and Construction (2008) would

be an invaluable source of material.

2.13 Building Information Modelling

When considering the future role of the QS, it is necessary to briefly mention Building

Information Modelling. According to the RICS (2014) greater automation of quantity

surveying functions would actually increase the relevance of the profession. Withers

(2014) stated that BIM will enhance rather than damage. RICS (2014) is a report

prepared by the RICS to establish How Building Information Modelling (BIM) can

support the New Rules of Measurement (NRM1). The report analysed two main areas:

BIM and its application in cost estimating and cost planning and NRM1 for cost

estimating and element cost planning. The report also includes a Technical review for

BIM based estimating tool to support NRM. The report highlighted that BIM based

measurement and cost estimating is still at its early stages and that supporting the

NRM1 format through BIM based estimating is the way forward. QSs need to consider

how the quantity of information in the BIM model can be used in cost estimating and

planning.

49

2.14 Summary

This chapter has reviewed current literature in the form of Journals, Industry Reports

and Textbooks relating to the future role of the QS and their future position within the

CI. It is apparent from the reports that, since the publication of the first RICS report in

1967 the role of the QS has been vastly developed from that of Measurer. The QS is

involved in a wide variety of roles and specialisms thus making the role one that is

extremely interesting and highly adaptable.

Cartlidge (2013) noted that the principle message behind the Industry reports is that the

CI, as a whole, needs to concentrate on modernisation, innovation and mass

production. For a construction project to be a complete success, there needs to be

greater co-operation between all parties, As previously noted, they are all links in the

chain and therefore need to work together to ensure the ultimate aim of Client

satisfaction and Value for Money are achieved. The nature of the Client has also

changed as they now expect value for money. Whilst Contractors are more

commercially aware.

Although it is still in its early stages, it would appear that if utilised correctly, The New

Rules of Measurement should have a positive effect on not just the role of the QS, but

on the industry as a whole. The documents should assist in greater cost control in all

areas of the building as more accurate cost plans can be prepared following guidelines

set out within the rules something that was not available in SMM7. There is also

greater scope for measurement and the whole life of the building from inception to

demolition can now be considered. However it should be noted that the majority of the

literature reviews have been carried out by parties either associated with its

implementation or those closely associated to it and therefore the findings from

Industrial research could put a completely different perspective on this.

50

Chapter 3 Data Gathering

3.1 Introduction

The aim of this chapter is to identify the data gathering methods carried out in order to

research the objectives of this dissertation as set out in chapter 1. This chapter will

describe all methods of research carried out, and the reasons for using each method.

3.2 Research Aims

In order to analyse the objectives effectively it was necessary to carry out research

within both the Construction Industry and Education. The research within the

Construction Industry entailed carrying out a questionnaire with several Quantity

Surveyors from various fields of the Industry, there was also a requirement to carry out

a follow up questionnaire with several software companies in order to establish what

changes they have made in relation to NRM. To expand on the data gained from the

questionnaires carried out with the QSs a few interviews took place. In order to review

the educational implications of the topic area short telephone interviews were carried

out with University Quantity Surveying Faculty Course Leaders.

3.3 Type of Data Collection

There are two main types of data collection these being qualitative and quantitative.

The type of data selected depends on the information that the researcher is trying to

obtain as a result of their research. Although these data collections types are different

they can be linked as a result of research and then the data collection can sometimes fall

into both categories.

51

3.3.1 Qualitative Data

Qualitative Data is data that does not present itself in numerical format and is obtained

from real life experiences. Naoum (2009) defines Qualitative research as being

subjective in nature. Farrell (2011) notes that the qualitative goal is to define

categories during the process of the study. Qualitative data is in theory harder to obtain

as it involves carrying out a series of studies.

3.3.2 Quantitative Data

Quantitative Data is data that is calculated in the form of statistical analysis. Naoum

(2009) describes quantitative data as being objective in nature, defined as an inquiry

into a social or human problem, based on testing a hypothesis or a theory composed of

variable, measured with numbers, and analysed with statistical procedures, in order to

determine whether the hypothesis or the theory hold true.

3.4 Primary Data and Secondary Data

Primary Data is raw data that has been sourced by the researcher whereas Secondary

Data that has been sourced by others.

3.5 Research Methods

Research was carried out in the form of a series of Questionnaires, and Interviews. Two

separate questionnaires were carried out, to test the findings within the Industry in

relation to the main objectives of this dissertation. The first questionnaire was aimed at

the Quantity Surveying Profession and the second at Software Companies.

52

3.6 Questionnaire 1

The questions contained within the first questionnaire were aimed at obtaining and

finding the views of the Quantity Surveying Profession relating to the main objectives

of this dissertation. The questions were all closed questions and the responses required

were chosen from a list of several options. The questions were structured in this way

so that specific areas could be analysed. The questionnaire comprised of 16 questions,

with 1 question having 3 parts and 1 question having 2 parts, there was 20 participants.

The first 3 questions in the questionnaire were aimed mainly at obtaining further

information on the participants. These questions cover topics such as which sector of

the industry they belong, what professional bodies that they belong to and how long

they have been a QS. The next 8 questions are all associated with SMM7 and NRM.

These questions were all included in order to establish the Professionals opinions

relative to measurements, SMM7 and NRM2.

3.6.1 The Parties in Questionnaire 1

The Parties involved in the Quantity Surveying questionnaire were carefully chosen in

order for there to be a wide spectrum of responses. The parties who carried out the

questionnaires comprised of eight candidates who are currently employed by Main

Contractors, four candidates who are currently employed as Consultants and finally

eight candidates who are currently employed in Private Practice. The number of years

experience of the parties was also an important factor as the dissertation is looking at

the roles of the QS over a 40 year period it was prudent that a number of the participants

had as much experience as possible, 45% of the participants have over 25 years

experience with 30% having 40 years. The least experienced candidate had 1 years

experience.

53

3.7 Questionnaire 2

The questions contained within the second questionnaire were aimed at clarifying

whether or not the respective software companies have implemented changes, to ensure

that the professionals can achieve the required objectives, there were 4 participants.

3.7.1 The Parties in Questionnaire 2

The Parties involved in the software questionnaire were chosen from what is currently

thought to be the most popular Quantity Surveying and Estimating Packages. The

questions again were open ended. There was initially 6 questions, however if parties

could answer questions 1 4 then there was no requirement to complete questions 5 and

6. All parties fell into this category.

3.8 Interviews

After analysing the results of the questionnaires it was apparent that further research

was required in certain areas. Two interviews were carried out with the view of further

exploration of some of the questions asked within the Questionnaire. The interviews

would enable the participants to give their viewpoints on the topics. The interviewees

did not take part in the Questionnaire.

3.8.1 Interview Participants

The Participants both had 20 years experience and they were specifically chosen so that

they could offer their particular viewpoint on the research aims and objectives. The

Participants were from different sectors of the Industry. Both interviews lasted

approximately 30 minutes and both parties were given a copy of the questions that they

would be asked a week before the interviews took place. Both parties wished to remain

anonymous. The analysis of the results notes only the main points taken from the

54

interview the items noted in the results are therefore not purely a transcript of the

interviews.

3.9 Telephone Interviews

In order to establish what the Educational Establishments are doing in relation to the

implementation of NRM it was necessary to carry out short telephone conversations

with the Quantity Surveying Faculty Course Leaders to establish what changes to the

structure of the BSc Quantity Surveying Degree Course.

3.9.1 Telephone Interview Participants

In choosing the participants to take part in the telephone interviews, it was decided that

the best person to speak to would be the Quantity Surveying Faculty Course Leader as

they would have the best insight into the content of the BSc QS Course. There were 2

participants in these interviews. 1 participant was based in Edinburgh the other was

based in Reading.

55

Chapter 4 Analysis of Data

4.1 Introduction

The aim of this chapter is to analyse the data collected and to relate it to the key aims

and objectives of this dissertation. Chapter 2 analysed the findings in literature on the

topic, this chapter will analyse the industry finding.

4.2 The Questionnaire

The findings of each of the following questions are detailed below. There were a total

of 20 participants all parties answered all questions.

56

4.2.1 Question 1

Question 1 was aimed at establishing the mix of participants in relation to their

respective work sectors the Sectors being broken down into Private Practice,

Consultant and Main Contractor the results show that 40% (8 people) were from the

Private Practice Sector, 20% (4 people) were from the Consultancy. From this it can be

seen that the proportion of people taking part in the Questionnaire is evenly distributed

in regards to the respective sectors.

Refer to Figure 14 below.

Figure 14 Pie Chart showing response to question 1

40%

20%

40%

Question 1: Which sector of the Industry do you belong?

Private Practice Consultant Main Contractor

57

4.2.2 Question 2

Question 2 was set up in 2 parts and aimed at establishing the mix of participants in

relation to their memberships of Professional Bodies, the participants were given a list

of the main bodies and a section to complete any others not noted. The first part of the

question highlighted that The Professional Bodies that participants belongs to were The

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), The Chartered Institute of Builders

(CIOB) and the Association of Project Safety RMaPS), the results show that 60% (12

people) were members of the RICS, 15% (3 people) were from the CIOB, 5% (1

person) was from the RMaPS and the remaining 20% (4 people) do not belong to any

Professional Bodies. The second part of this question asked the participants to confirm

what level of membership that they currently had the results showed that from the

60% (12 people) of RICS members 15% (3 people) were student members, 30% (6

people) were Full members and 15% (3 people) were Fellow members of the RICS.

From the 15% (3 people) who were members of the CIOB, 5% (1 person) was an

incorporated member and 10% (2 people) were Full members. From this it can be seen

that the participants taking part in the Questionnaire are all highly qualified in their

chosen area.

Refer to Figure 15 below

58

60

%

15

%

5%

20

%

15

%3

0%

15

%

5%

10

%

5%

T h e R o y a l I n s t i t u t i o n o f

C h a r t e r e d S u r v e y o r s ( R IC S )

T h e C h a r t e r e d I n s t i t u t e o f

B u i l d e r s ( C I O B )

T h e A s s o c i a t io n o f P r o j e c t S a f e t y -

R M a P S

N o n e

Professional Bodies and membership levels.

Que stion 2 : Are you a me mbe r of any Profe ssional bodie s? I f so which one s

and at which le ve l?Membership of Professional Bodies StudentMRICS FRICSICIOB MCIOB

Figure 15: Bar Chart showing responses to question 2

59

4.2.3 Question 3

Question 3 was aimed at establishing the experience of the participants in relation to the

number of years that they have worked as a QS. The results show that 5% (1 person)

had under 5 years experience, 15% (3 people) had between 6 and 10 years experience,

15% (3 people) had between 11 and 15 years experience, 20% (4 people) had between

16 and 20 years experience, 5% (1 person) had between 26 and 30 years experience,

10% (2 people) had between 30 and 35 years experience and 30% (6 people) had 36-40

years experience. From this it can be seen that the parties taking part all have a vast

amount of experience.

Refer to figure 16 below.

Figure 16 Bar chart showing responses to question 3.

60

4.2.4 Question 4

Question 4 was aimed at establishing whether or not the participants were familiar with

SMM7. The results of this question show that 100% (20 People) all confirmed that they

are familiar with SMM7.



61

4.2.5 Question 5

This question was included to establish how often the participants use SMM7. The

result of this question is that 5% (1 person) uses SMM7 on a daily basis, 20% (4 people)

use SMM7 on a weekly basis, 15% (3 people) use SMM7 on a monthly basis, 55% (11

people) use SMM7 occasionally and 5% (1 person) never uses it.



62

4.2.6 Question 6

This question was included to establish whether or not participants were familiar with

NRM. The results of this question was that 55% (11 people) were familiar with NRM

and 45% (9 people) were not familiar with NRM.

Refer to figure 19 below

Figure 19 Pie chart showing responses to question 6.

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4.2.7 Question 7

This question was asked to find out the participants opinion on the promotion of NRM.

25% (5 people) said yes, 75% (15 people) said no.


Figure 20 Pie Chart showing responses to Question 7

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4.2.8 Question 8

This question was asked to establish how often the parties use NRM1. 5% (1 person)

responded weekly, 15% (3 people) responded occasionally, and 80% (16 people)

responded never.

4.2.9 Question 9

This question was asked to establish how often the parties use NRM2. 5% (1 person)

responded monthly, and 95% (19 people) responded never.

The results to question 8 and 9 have been entered into the same bar chart to show the

comparison between use of NRM1 and NRM2.


Figure 21 Bar chart showing responses to question 8 and 9

65

4.2.10 Question 10

This question was asked to ascertain what method of measurement that participants

prefer. 5% (1 person) chose NRM, 70% (14 people) chose SMM7, 5% (1 person)

chose The Civil Engineering Method of Measurement (CESMM), and 20% (4 People)

chose Standard Method of Measurement 6 (SMM6).


Figure 22 Pie Chart showing results of question 10

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4.2.11 Question 11

This question was asked to establish the Professions viewpoint as to whether or not they

though that NRM would re-invent the role of the QS. Interestingly this question was

the only question for which there was not a 100% decisive response. 5% (1 person)

responded no, 60% (12 people) responded no, 25% (5 people) didnt know and 10% (2

people) said that they didnt know.



67

4.2.12 Question 12

This question was asked to obtain participants opinions on BIM and whether it would

detract from the importance of NRM. 30% (6 people) said yes and 70% (14 people)

said no.


Figure 24 Pie Chart showing responses to question 12.

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4.2.13 Question 13

This question set up in 3 parts and was aimed at establishing the activities of the

participants in relation to cost planning, measurement and whole life cycle costing and

how often they carry them out.

Part 1 Costing Planning 75% (15 people) answered yes and 25% (5 people)

answered no. In relation to how often cost planning is carried out 15% (3 People)

responded daily, 35% (7 people) responded weekly, 20% (4 people) responded monthly.

Part 2 Measurement 100% (20 people) answered yes. In relation to how often cost

planning is carried out 40% (8 people) responded daily, 30% (6 people) answered

weekly, 15% (3 people) answered monthly, and 10% (2 people) answered rarely.

Part 3 Whole Life Cycle Costing - 40% (8 people) answered yes, 60% (12 people)

answered yes. In relation to how often whole life cycle costing is carried out 5% (1

person) answered daily, 5% (1 person) answered weekly.


75%

25%

15%

35%

20%

0% 0%

25%

100%

0

40%

30%

15%10% 10%

0

40%

60%

5% 5% 5%

15%10%

60%

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

120%

Yes No Daily Weekly Monthly Occasional Rarely Never

Question 13: Does your brief include for carrying out the following activities?

Cost Planning Measurement Whole Life Cycle Costing


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4.2.14 Question 14

This question was asked to establish participants viewpoint on whether they thought

that there was still a requirement for a traditional bill of quantities in construction

projects. 5% (1 person) answered no and 95% (19 people) answered no.

Refer to diagram 26 below.


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4.2.15 Question 15

This question was asked to establish participants viewpoint on whether they thought

that the role of the QS had changed in recent years. 20% (1 people) answered no and

80% (16 people) answered yes.

Refer to diagram 27 below.


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4.2.16 Question 16

The first part of this question was asked to ascertain the use of computer technology.

Participants were asked whether or not the used any computer software in their daily

activities. 25% (5 People) answered no and 75% (15 people) answered yes.


Figure 28 Pie Chart showing responses to question 16a

The second part of this question was asked to relating to which software programmes

are currently being used. A total of 15 programmes were identified. Several

participants use several programmes. 5% (1 person) uses Conquest, 15% (3 people) use

Word, 10% (2 people) use Masterbill, 5% (1 person) uses QS Elite, 5% (1 person) uses

Candy, 75% (15 people) use excel, 5% (1 person) uses Sage, 15% (3 people) use

Vector, 5% (1 person) use Auto Cad, 5% (1 person) use Ripac, 10% (2 people) use True

View, 5% (1 person) uses Blue beam, 5% (1 person) uses Cato and 10% (2 people) use

QS Script.

72


5%

15%10%

5% 5%

75%

5%

15%

5% 5%10%

5%10%

5%10%

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

Question 16b: Computer software which programmes people use.

Programmes

Figure 29 bar chart showing responses to question 16b

The third part of this question was aimed at identifying which of the programmes

noted in 16b include software specifically for the use of NRM. The result of this

questions can be summarised thus out of 15 programmes 79% (12 Programmes)

did not include NRM, 21% (3 programmes) included NRM. Out of these 3

programmes and equating back to the 21% figure Conquest, Masterbill and Vector

all account for 7% each.

Refer to Figure 30.

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Figure 30 Pie chart showing responses to question 16c

74

4.3 Interview Results

4.3.1 Question 1 How long have you been a Quantity Surveyor and what

factors influence your decision to follow a career as a Quantity Surveyor?

Interviewee 1

Responded that they had been a QS for 20 years and that they had decided to become a

QS more by accident than anything else. They had been employed within a Company in

the late 80s, working as a Civil Engineering Technician, and as result of the Recession,

their work had dried up so they started to help the QSs out by to start with filling out

day works sheets and as they were familiar with construction and drawings carrying out

a few measures. From this they obtained a job with a Contractor and started a distance

learning course in order to obtain their BSc.

Interviewee 2

Responded that they had been a QS for 20 years and that they had become a QS as their

father was a Partner in a large QS Practice and they always thought that his work

sounded very interesting so they followed in his footsteps and after leaving school

enrolled in a University and obtained their degree.

75

4.3.2 Question 2 What Sector of the Industry do you currently work in and

have you always worked in this Sector?

Interviewee 1

Responded that they working for a Main Contractor and that they had always worked in

this Sector. They also added that it was the nature of the Beast as to what sector a QS

worked in. If you enjoyed working on the coalface and getting your feet dirty then

Contracting was for you. However if you prepared to sit in an office suited and

booted then Private Practice was for you. They added that they found Contracting, a

very challenging and rewarding role and that they have found that the role of the CQS

has been vastly developed over the last 10 or so years. A CQS needs to extremely

commercially minded, a good negotiator.

Interviewee 2

Responded that they worked in Private Practice for a total of 19 years out of the 20 that

they had been working. They had a short spell of 1 year working for a Ground works

subcontractor. They had 5 years experience working for a Private Practice when a

Groundworks Contractor approached them and asked them to work with their

Company. They gave it due consideration and decided to give it a bash, however, they

soon realised that they were a bit out their depth and opted to go back to Private

Practice.

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4.3.3 Question 3 What Method of Measurement do you currently prefer and

why do you prefer this method?

Interviewee 1

Responded that they preferred SMM7, however, the Method of Measurement used

depended on the type of Contract that they were working on and the way that it was

billed. The majority of their works were carried out using SMM7, however if they

were working on a Contract that was Civil Engineering orientated then they use

CESMM. They further added that their organisation had recently priced and secured a

contract that was measured and priced using NRM 2.

Interviewee 2

Responded that they preferred SMM7 but this was solely because it was the document

that they were most familiar with. They used CESMM on a very rare occasion. The

Trainees in their office were starting to ask if they could use NRM as the Universities

were implementing this in their measurement studies. They added that the Partners all

felt that it was possibly time for change but stated that as humans we are all slightly

scared on change but sometimes change is for the better.

77

4.3.4 Question 4 Have you had any experience of NRM? If so which

Volume? Can you give a brief overview?

Interviewee 1

Responded by confirming that interestingly enough they have recently prepared a tender

and had the Contract awarded for a project based entirely on NRM. When the

document arrived in the office it was treated with a great deal of scepticism, however on

further scrutiny it was noticed that the layout of the document made it much easier to

submit separate trade sections to both Suppliers and Subcontractors. We found that all

parties that we asked to price returned their tenders. Also when it got to the pre-tender

award meeting with the Client and the Design Team is was easier to find respective

sections that the Client was asking for clarity on as all the elements were grouped

together so we were not jumping from one section of the bill to another. When it came

to procurement it was relatively easy to again split up all the items into the various

packages. The package that we found the best improvement in was the Mechanical and

Electrical Installations we usually hav

1407424167 Harding, D. Harding D Dissertation 2014

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