The accuracy of quantity surveyors' cost estimating

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.