A recent study published in the Journal of Construction Project Management and Innovation has undertaken a comprehensive scientometric analysis of quantity surveying (QS) research over the past two decades. This analysis not only highlights the evolution of QS but also uncovers significant trends that could shape the future of the construction sector. The research, led by Taiwo Adegbembo, reveals that the field of quantity surveying has garnered attention from various countries, including the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Australia, indicating a global interest in this pivotal area of construction management.
The study utilized data from the Scopus database, spanning from 2003 to 2023, to visualize and assess the landscape of QS research. Adegbembo noted, “Understanding the trends in quantity surveying research is essential for identifying gaps and making meaningful contributions to the body of knowledge.” This sentiment underscores the importance of research in driving the development of professionals and organizations within the construction industry.
One of the key findings of the analysis is the concentration of QS studies in six major areas: professional service and management, the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in design and cost estimating, competencies required for QS professionals, education and training, the role of QS in the construction industry, and project planning. These focus areas not only reflect current industry needs but also point towards potential avenues for future research.
Interestingly, the study highlights a significant gap in the indexing of QS conference proceedings, which has resulted in fewer publications from these important forums. This lack of visibility may hinder the dissemination of innovative ideas and practices that could benefit the industry. Adegbembo emphasized the need for improved indexing, stating, “The visibility of conference research can lead to greater collaboration and innovation within the QS community.”
Looking ahead, the research identifies several less-explored areas ripe for investigation, such as human resource management within QS, the impact of climate change adaptation strategies, and the integration of digital technologies and innovative construction practices. These emerging topics are crucial as the construction sector faces increasing pressures to adapt to environmental challenges and technological advancements.
The implications of this research are profound for the construction industry. By addressing these gaps and exploring new areas, QS professionals can enhance their contributions to project efficiency, sustainability, and overall performance. The findings serve as a call to action for researchers, practitioners, and educators to collaborate and innovate, ultimately driving the sector towards a more resilient and forward-thinking future.
As the construction landscape evolves, the insights from this scientometric analysis pave the way for a more informed and strategic approach to quantity surveying. The study’s findings are not only relevant for academics but also hold significant commercial value for industry stakeholders looking to stay ahead in a competitive market. For more information about the research and its implications, you can reach out to lead_author_affiliation.
