A strategic framework for the survival of the quantity surveying profession

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyse the survival of the quantity surveying profession using a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis in an attempt to define the key strengths and weaknesses of the quantity surveying profession based on professional consultants’ experience and to determine the key opportunities and threats which are perceived to impact the quantity surveying profession significantly.

Design/methodology/approach

The positivist paradigm was used for this study. The researchers chose quantitative research in the form of questionnaires. A probability sampling method was used. The desired method that was used was the random sampling method. The data were analysed with SPSS using factor analysis and descriptive analysis. A sample of 58 quantity surveyors was randomly selected from the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) for this study.

Findings

Four categories of strengths exist, namely, the ability to plan and solve problems, core quantity surveying measuring skills, project viability and interpersonal skills. Three categories of weaknesses exist, namely, technical inadequacies of quantity surveyors, resistance to change and lack of knowledge of and about the profession. Three categories of opportunities exist, namely, greater demand for quantity surveyors, the need for quantity surveyors and new and existing roles in and out of the profession. Three categories of threats exist, namely, lack of the quantity surveying profession to market itself where new roles require an advancement of core quantity surveying services, external factors that hinder the performance of the profession and the lack of quantity surveying skills in the new generation.

Research limitations/implications

Only members of the ASAQS were included in this research.

Originality/value

The quantity surveying profession requires a strategic framework that will overcome their threats and weaknesses and embrace the strengths and opportunities of the profession to ensure they survive and remain relevant in the ever-changing construction industry. This study aided the quantity surveying profession by identifying the strengths and opportunities and determining the weaknesses and threats faced by the profession.

Citation

Ramdav, T. and Harinarain, N. (2020), "A strategic framework for the survival of the quantity surveying profession", Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, Vol. 18 No. 6, pp. 1487-1518. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEDT-03-2019-0058