The accuracy of quantity surveyors' cost estimating

Morrison, N (1984) The accuracy of quantity surveyors' cost estimating. Construction Management and Economics, 2(1), pp. 57-75. ISSN 01446193

Abstract

This paper examines the accuracy of cost estimates prepared by quantity surveyors during the design stages of construction projects. Since these estimates influence the feasibility and form of projects, the ability of quantity surveyors to fulfil the objectives of cost planning is considered. It concludes that the present methods of estimating used by quantity surveyors produce results which are not sufficiently accurate to meet all the objectives of cost planning. The most likely area for improvement lies in developing methods of using large cost data bases.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: accuracy; Cost estimating; cost planning; quantity surveyor; variability
Index terms: estimate, accuracy, cost data, variability, estimating, design stage, quantity surveying, cost planning, cost estimate, cost estimating, construction project
Subjects: production management, professional development, accounting and finance, financial management, profession, statistical analysis, financial and cost management, professional practice
Topics: Roles and Professions, Research Practice, Information Management, Design Practice, Project Management, Cost Management
Descriptive scope: 2 PC

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