Empowering 21st Century Quantity Surveyors Through Sustainable Development Strategies
Tonye Baribefe West
Department of Quantity Surveying, Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Abstract
The dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of engineering and technology-driven industries requires professionals and organizations to adopt robust change management strategies. Managing change has become a defining characteristic of successful organizations, especially within disciplines like Quantity Surveying that operate at the intersection of construction, engineering, and cost consultancy. This paper explores the necessity and implications of change management within the Quantity Surveying profession, particularly in the Nigerian construction industry context.
Traditionally viewed as specialists in measurement and valuation of building works, quantity surveyors are now increasingly tasked with providing a broader range of services. These include project management, cost control, risk analysis, and value engineering—functions that demand adaptability to both technological and market-driven changes. Innovations such as automated quantity take-off software and 3D modeling tools are reshaping the profession, potentially displacing routine tasks while highlighting the need for strategic, analytical, and leadership competencies.
In an environment where construction projects have grown in complexity, both structurally and administratively, quantity surveyors must evolve to remain relevant. The shift in roles driven by technological advancements and shifting client expectations calls for enhanced managerial development and professional agility. This paper highlights the importance of fostering adaptive capabilities among construction professionals through structured change management and continuous professional development programs.
Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the critical role of organizational recognition in sustaining the relevance of quantity surveyors in multidisciplinary teams. In the face of economic, political, and technological pressures, the construction industry must embrace proactive talent development strategies that address skill gaps and strengthen leadership capacity. Only through such approaches can organizations harness the full potential of their human resources while navigating the uncertainties of modern construction demands.