In order to ensure that a project is completed effectively and within budget, quantity surveying must strike a balance between cost and time. Achieving this balance can be facilitated by a number of strategies, including value engineering, communication, cooperation, thorough planning, regular monitoring, and reporting.

"Precision in planning leads to excellence in execution." Balancing time and cost in Quantity Surveying is an art that involves tailoring your approach to each project's unique needs. Just like a good recipe, understanding the project's scope and client's objectives is the secret sauce. It's not about a one-size-fits-all strategy; it's about crafting solutions that align with project goals, ensuring success.

To balance time and cost in quantity surveying, utilise various methods like parametric or elemental estimation depending on project stage and accuracy needed. Incorporating software tools such as BIM or CAD streamlines calculations, measurements, and analysis, enhancing efficiency and reducing expenses.

Let's set the record straight: BIM isn't just software—it's a methodology powered by a range of software. And using the right combination enhances efficiency and accuracy, contributing to successful project outcomes.

The type of cost estimation that is chosen is crucial; for rough figures in the early stages, parametric or analogous estimating may be used; for precision in the later phases, precise estimates are needed. BIM integration promotes a proactive approach to cost management by enabling real-time cost monitoring and greatly reducing errors through 3D visualization. By delivering precise and fast data, using such technologies not only expedites the surveying process but also improves decision-making.

Balancing time, cost & value in quantity surveying is by maintaining open and clear communication with all project stakeholders like client, Consultant and Contractor etc. When everyone is well-informed and working together, it streamlines the decision-making process and helps us stay on track to meet our project goals. It's all about collaboration and effective dialogue in this field.

Quantity surveying thrives on robust communication and collaboration. Engaging with project stakeholders - client, architect, engineer, contractor, subcontractor, and supplier - is critical. Information exchange, feedback provision, change negotiation, and issue resolution establish unity. Regular progress reporting cultivates transparency and responsibility. Through effective communication and collaboration, you harmonize endeavors, guaranteeing adherence to specifications, standards, and timelines. This harmonious approach optimizes project outcomes and stakeholder contentment.

According to my approach, effective communication is paramount. Maintaining open and transparent communication with stakeholders fosters collaboration, ensuring everyone is aligned with project goals and potential adjustments.

Unceasing cost monitoring and control are paramount across the project lifecycle in quantity surveying. Continuously comparing costs with budget and estimates is fundamental. Detecting and gauging variations, deviations, and contingencies arising from design shifts, scope alterations, or market dynamics is vital. Analyzing the impact of these aspects on project time and cost and suggesting remedies is crucial. Revising cost plans or bills of quantities to reflect changes is indispensable. Disseminating adjustments and repercussions to stakeholders maintains transparency and informed choices. This methodical approach enhances project achievement and fiscal sensibility.

Early in my career, I learned the mantra, "If you can measure it, you can manage it." As a QS, navigating project variations, updating cost plans, and proposing solutions are second nature. It's not just about numbers; it's about strategic cost control and delivering projects on time.

In quantity surveying, perpetual learning is imperative. Keep pace with industry trends, technologies, and best practices. Learn from experiences, feedback, and mistakes to bolster skills and knowledge. Enrich yourself through training, certifications, and association memberships. This continual progression amplifies competency and confidence as a quantity surveyor, resulting in enhanced value to clients through heightened performance and insightful decision-making.

Client comes 1st End of story if job goes wrong and you spend more time on it than you planned it’s tough. there will be swings and balances

Post-Project Review: Conduct post-project reviews to evaluate what went well and what could be improved. Document lessons learned and best practices. Training and Development: Invest in continuous professional development to keep up-to-date with the latest industry practices, tools, and technologies. Feedback Loops: Establish feedback loops with project teams and stakeholders to gather insights and improve future project planning and execution.

Time, Cost, and Quality are the three main client objectives. Where do we see Sustainability fitting into these objectives? Should it be considered the fourth main objective? Or maybe it's not a client priority thus far.