Construction Quantity Surveying

 

 

This module is to generate an understanding of the construction industry, the role of the QS during the construction stage of the project life cycle.

Summary of Learning

 

1.      What is construction procurement?

Construction procurement is the process whereby the client chooses a specialized method to implement his project.  It involves setting up a contractual network of designers, contractors, financiers and other agents to design, construct and manage a project.  One of the important considerations in procurement selection is the allocation of risks among the various parties involved.

 

2.      Factor to consider when selecting procurement methods :

·         Time

·         Capital Cost

·         Operating cost

·         Environment

·         Market value of project

·         Flexibility

·         Prestige

·         Political considerations

 

3.      What are the procurement methods currently practiced?

            The common procurement methods are:

·         Traditional procurement

·         Design and build

·         Construction management

·         Management contractor

·         Public Private Partnership

 

4.      Traditional procurement

The traditional procurement process: Client appoints consultant team comprising architect, engineer, QS, etc. to design the building and prepare tender documents. Contractors are selected through open tender, selective tender or negotiation. Tenders documents comprise drawings, specifications, BQ.

 

5.      Design and build

The design and build procurement process: Client’s consultants prepare brief tender documents for contractors to submit design and price. The tender documents usually comprise functional brief, concept design stage, description of building function, areas required, services performance criteria and basic finishes information. These documents are also known as ‘Request for Proposals ‘.  At the initial stage contractors are only required to submit a workable design to meet the client’s requirements.  Only when they win the tender do the contractors prepare detailed designs for construction.     

  

6.      Management contracting

The management contracting procurement route: Client appoints a management contractor early in the process to advice on the design, program and buildability. The management contractor then programs, packages and obtains tenders for the works which are each awarded on a competitive lump sum basis, firm price contract with the management contractor. The MC becomes a member of the design team and contributes construction knowledge and management expertise. The MC can be appointed through a tender process to obtain competitive fees or by negotiation.

 

7.      Construction Management

The construction management procurement route: Construction manager is appointed to advise the client on a fee basis.  The client then enters into contract with numerous specialist contractors rather than a main contractor (as in management contracting). The client has closer involvement with the project, lines of communication with the specialist contractors are shorter, thus enabling faster decision making. As a member of the design team, the CM is expected to coordinate the design and construction programs and ensure the interfaces between the different trades are well managed. The client has contractual risk with the contractors. Construction Management is suitable for:

·         Experienced clients

·         Where cost certainty is not a priority

·         Fast track projects

·         Complex buildings