Factors Affecting the Competence of Quantity Surveying Professionals in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The increased complexity of construction projects necessitates the need for quantity surveying professionals to achieve and maintain the highest levels of competency. However, various factors have inhibited their expected professional practice aptitude. Hence, this study reports on the factors affecting their competency. A questionnaire-based descriptive survey strategy was undertaken to collect quantitative dat a from both consultants’ and contractors’ quantity surveyors on the factors affecting their competence. Factor analysis revealed four significant components that include inadequate project and professional practice, inadequate academic and technological advances, inadequate organizational structure and teamwork, and unclear individual career development goals. In addition, an assessment of statistically significant differences in ranking by consultants and contractors quantity surveyors was undertaken. Contractors’ quantity surveyors considered inadequate polytechnic education and training, inconsistent project implementation strategies, and unclear organization development goals as impacting most negatively on the competence of quantity surveying professionals. These findings reveal a need to establish collaboration between higher education institutions and professional bodies for the development and implementation of relevant strategic plans for resolving these inadequacies. Also, organizational development goals and project implementation strategies are more relevant and important for contractors as opposed to consultants ’ firms. The withdrawal of primary data from quantity surveying professionals only was a limitation; however, the factors primarily affect quantity surveyors and their insights are vital. the study, and limitations of the study are presented.