Building Economics

This module is about learning of Quantity’s Surveyor’s role during construction pre-tender stage. Throughout the semester, I have been introduced to the concept of cost control, cost modeling, cost analysis and the effect of cost in forming an economical building. Besides, whole life costing and value engineering are as well emphasized in this subject. 

Along the way, we had a midterm test and in-class discussions on every tutorial sessions. Instead of carrying out discussion in traditional way, we were assigned into groups to present the tutorial answers through power point slides. The in-class discussions enhance learning effectiveness where discussions are now become more interesting and open discussion are allowed. Apart from that, we had a 2 days’ workshop led by Mr Eugene Seah, the group Managing Director of Langdon & Seah Singapore which is now named as Arcadis. Mr Eugene Seah is experienced in construction sector where he emphasized green approach in his projects. 

These two days’ workshop tests the level of knowledge we have towards Building Economics. Generally, the workshop started with presentation by Mr Eugene Seah. He is first introducing about the triple bottom line of sustainability and how it affects the total building performance. He also briefs us about the method of estimating. At the end of the presentation, we are assigned to produce a preliminary cost appraisal for an existing project based in Singapore. Basically, we have to price the building elements accordingly by integrating green elements in it to achieve the expectation of a sustainable building.

Right after the workshop, tasks have been assigned among the group members. As it was our first approach in preparing a cost appraisal, we had totally no idea on how to start initially. Despite this, I am glad that every member was willing to contribute ideas and work as a team for solutions. Besides discussed among ourselves, we as well exchanged opinions with other group members. In fact, we stayed up late in the campus to complete the task and prepare for presentation on the next day. From there, I see the importance of team working and the 100% effort everyone has put into this workshop.

During the presentation, we proposed our findings in front of Mr Eugene Seah, Dean from our school, lecturers as well as two experienced external panels. We were extremely nervous as we are the first group presenting. During the presentation, few questions were being asked and mistakes were found in our preliminaries costing. However, the mistakes have been corrected right after the presentation. After the presentation, every panel contributed their ideas and advises for our future guidelines and self-improvement.  

Throughout the activities carried out in this module, I am able to identify my role as a Quantity Surveyor in real working life and developed a clearer concept about the significance of cost in pre and post contract stages. The knowledge gained is somehow useful in my future career. Last but not least, I would want to thank Ms Dianne for knowledge sharing and her constant guides throughout the semester.

We spent our weekend to do research on the requirement of assignment before the workshop is carried out.

Discussion in progress. 

Discussion among group has been carried out in classroom.

Everyone was preparing for the presentation.

Presentation in progress.

 During the presentation.

Group photo with all the panels after the presentation.