The development of early stage cost estimating expertise: effective feedback and systematic reflection for quantity surveyors

The use of an effective feedback system influences the quality of early stage design cost estimates, for construction projects, prepared by consultant quantity surveyors. Similarly, a means of monitoring performance should be incorporated into any forecasting system. On an individual basis, systematic reflection is crucial for effective experiential learning and is held to be the only process through which a professional may achieve growth and self-renewal. This paper reports, in part, on a fully structured interview survey of experienced quantity surveying practitioners and a questionnaire survey of student quantity surveyors, which investigate the application of effective feedback systems and systematic reflection by early stage design cost estimators. The results indicate that, despite the recommendations of previous studies, many QS practitioners still have inadequate feedback systems. Many either do not systematically reflect on the outcomes of estimates, or use self-assessment as the sole means of evaluation. Also, the QS practitioner sample had significantly lower Reflective Observation learning style scores when compared to the student survey sample, while their declared approach to learning exhibited an aversion for self-assessment or self-appraisal. Finally, on an organisational basis both practitioners and student quantity surveyors gave a low rating to the provision of constructive feedback by the organisation on their performance.