Assessment of the Role of Quantity Surveyors in Public Infrastructure Development

CHAPTER ONE

1.1 Background of the Study

Public infrastructure development plays a critical role in supporting economic growth and improving citizens’ quality of life. Roads, bridges, hospitals, and schools form the backbone of every nation’s development plan. However, such projects often involve large budgets and complex management processes that require accurate cost control and financial accountability. According to Ashworth and Perera (2018), the quantity surveyor is central to this process because of their expertise in cost estimation, contract administration, and financial management.

Quantity surveyors ensure that public projects are executed within budget and meet quality standards. They prepare feasibility studies, manage tenders, and monitor expenditures throughout the project lifecycle. Their contribution helps government agencies allocate resources effectively and reduce the risk of cost overruns or financial mismanagement (Nkado & Meyer, 2019).

Despite their importance, the role of quantity surveyors in public infrastructure delivery is sometimes undervalued or poorly defined. In some cases, lack of professional involvement at the early stages of planning leads to inaccurate cost forecasts and project delays. This study therefore assesses the role of quantity surveyors in the planning, execution, and management of public infrastructure projects, emphasizing how their input improves cost efficiency and accountability.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Many public infrastructure projects suffer from cost overruns, delays, and poor value for money. Weak cost planning and inadequate monitoring are major reasons for these failures (Olawale & Sun, 2015). Although quantity surveyors are trained to address these issues, their roles are sometimes neglected or limited to post-contract activities.

In some cases, project decisions are made without sufficient cost analysis or professional advice, leading to inflated budgets and waste of public funds. Furthermore, political interference and lack of transparency often reduce the effectiveness of quantity surveying practices in public projects. These challenges create a need to re-evaluate the contribution of quantity surveyors to public infrastructure development and identify ways to strengthen their involvement.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The main aim of this study is to assess the role of quantity surveyors in public infrastructure development.

The specific objectives are to:

1. Examine the major functions of quantity surveyors in public infrastructure projects.

2. Evaluate how their involvement contributes to cost control and project efficiency.

3. Identify challenges affecting quantity surveyors in public sector projects.

4. Recommend strategies to enhance their role in public infrastructure development.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What are the key functions of quantity surveyors in public infrastructure projects?

2. How does their involvement improve cost control and project delivery?

3. What challenges limit the effectiveness of quantity surveyors in the public sector?

4. What strategies can enhance their role in public infrastructure management?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is important because it highlights the vital contribution of quantity surveyors to sustainable public infrastructure development. According to Nkado and Meyer (2019), effective cost management ensures that governments obtain maximum value from limited public funds. The research will benefit policymakers, public project managers, and professional bodies by emphasizing the need for early and continuous involvement of quantity surveyors in public works.

It will also help quantity surveyors themselves identify areas for professional improvement and advocacy. Academically, the study contributes to the growing knowledge on cost management, accountability, and professional ethics in public sector construction.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on the role of quantity surveyors in the development of public infrastructure such as roads, schools, and hospitals. It examines their contributions during pre-contract and post-contract phases, including cost estimation, tendering, and project evaluation. The study targets government agencies, contractors, and consultants involved in public projects.

1.7 Limitations of the Study

The study may face challenges such as limited access to financial records due to confidentiality in government projects. In addition, political influences may restrict open discussions about project management practices. However, reliable data will be obtained from professional quantity surveyors and relevant project case studies to ensure validity.

1.8 Definition of Terms

• Quantity Surveyor: A construction professional responsible for cost management, financial planning, and contract administration in construction projects (Ashworth & Perera, 2018).

• Public Infrastructure: Facilities and systems developed by government agencies to support economic and social activities.

• Cost Control: The process of monitoring and managing project expenses to stay within budget limits.

• Tendering: The process of inviting and evaluating bids from contractors for project execution.