Title: The Quantity Surveyor as a Construction Economist: An

Exploration of Roles and Responsibilities

Introduction:

The construction industry is a complex and multifaceted field that requires the expertise of various
professionals to ensure successful project delivery. Among these professionals, quantity surveyors
play a vital role in managing construction costs and ensuring economic viability. This paper argues
that a qualified quantity surveyor is, in essence, a construction economist, and their skills and
knowledge are essential to the financial management of construction projects.

Role of Quantity Surveyors:

Quantity surveyors are construction professionals responsible for managing the financial aspects of
construction projects (Ashworth & Tucker, 2011). Their primary duties include cost estimation,
budgeting, and cost control, as well as ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards
(Seeley, 1997). Quantity surveyors work closely with other construction professionals, such as
architects, engineers, and contractors, to ensure that projects are completed within budget and to
the required quality standards.

Construction Economist:

A construction economist is a professional who applies economic principles to the construction

industry (Hillebrandt, 1985). They analyse market trends, predict future costs, and provide advice on
investment decisions (Runeson, 2018). Construction economists also evaluate the economic viability
of projects, assess risk, and develop strategies to minimize costs and maximize returns (Gruneberg &
Hughes, 2017).

Discussion:

A qualified quantity surveyor possesses the skills and knowledge required to perform the roles and
responsibilities of a construction economist. They have a deep understanding of construction costs,
market trends, and economic principles, which enables them to make informed decisions about
project financing and cost management (Ashworth & Tucker, 2011). Quantity surveyors are also
skilled in risk analysis and mitigation, which is critical in construction projects where unforeseen
events can have significant financial implications (Seeley, 1997).
Conclusion:

In conclusion, a qualified quantity surveyor is, indeed, a construction economist. Their expertise in
construction costs, market trends, and economic principles makes them an essential part of the
construction team. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the role of quantity surveyors
will become even more critical in ensuring the financial success of construction projects.

References:

Ashworth, A., & Tucker, M. (2011). Management of construction projects. Routledge.

Gruneberg, S. L., & Hughes, W. (2017). Construction economics: A new approach. Routledge.

Hillebrandt, P. M. (1985). Economic theory and the construction industry. Routledge.

Runeson, G. (2018). Construction economics: A managerial approach. Routledge.

Seeley, I. H. (1997). Building economics: An introduction. Macmillan International Higher Education.