AIQS Competencies
AIQS Competencies
AIQS Competencies
COMPETENCY STANDARDS
FOR
QUANTITY SURVEYORS -
CONSTRUCTION ECONOMISTS
GENERAL
Introduction 1
Acknowledgments 4
Caveat 4
BASIC ABILITIES 5
ii
Units Page No.
Audits 44
16. Audits (Specialist Unit)
a) Premises Audit 45
b) Energy and Maintenance Audit 46
c) Asset Registers 46
Technical Due Diligence 47
17. Technical Due Diligence (Specialist Unit) 49
Compliance Issues 50
18. Compliance Issues (Specialist Unit) 51
SUPPORT COMPETENCIES 61
23. Computer Services (Core Unit) 62
24. Measurement (Core Unit) 63
25. Construction Technology (Core Unit) 63
26. Government Regulation and Law (Core Unit) 64
27. Arbitration (Specialist Unit) 65
28. Expert Witness/Evidence (Specialist Unit) 66
29. Business Management (Specialist Unit)
a) Communication 67
b) Information Management 68
c) Ethics and Standards 68
d) Human Resources 69
e) Marketing 69
f) Accounting 70
g) Office Management 71
h) Public Relations 73
i) Education and Training 74
30. Research and Development (Specialist Unit) 74
31. Cost Information Database (Specialist Unit) 75
iii
THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF QUANTITY SURVEYORS
INTRODUCTION
The National Competency Standards for Quantity Surveyors October 1997, provides the basis for the development and evaluation of
the level of competency of Quantity Surveyors throughout Australia.
The competencies described in this publication cover the broad range of expertise provided by the modern Quantity Surveyor and
extend beyond some of the more traditional Quantity Surveying services.
Competency has been defined as the ability to perform the activities within an occupation to the standard expected for employment.
Certain competencies are essential and provide the core requirements of a competent Quantity Surveyor. These core requirements will
change from time to time as the profession meets the demands for diversified new services. However, in order to clarify the current
position, these Standards have been divided into Core (ie. essential) units and Specialist (ie. optional) units of competency.
Education bodies seeking accreditation for courses in Construction Economics and Quantity Surveying will be expected to provide an
appropriate level of education that satisfies these core units of competency.
These Standards should also be read in conjunction with the National Competency Standards Policy and Guidelines published by the
National Training Board.
The National Training Board Policy and Guidelines provide background information together with guidance on how to use the
Standards.
The development of competency standards for the profession serves many purposes, but fundamentally provide the profession with the
opportunity to:
These Standards have been prepared under the auspices of The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS), the regulatory body
of the Quantity Surveying profession, whose mission is to:
LEAD the development and promotion of the discipline of quantity surveying / construction economics;
DEVELOP and maintain standards of excellence and best practice in the profession;
Membership of the Institute is restricted to those with appropriate educational qualifications and who have demonstrated the required
level of professional competence after a required work experience period. Corporate membership is open to Quantity Surveyors,
Building or Construction Economists, Cost Engineers and Cost Estimators. Students and other related professionals are eligible for
non-corporate membership.
2
INTRODUCTION (Continued)
Quantity Surveyors are key professionals in the construction industry and their clients include financiers, developers, government
agencies, building proprietors, architects and contractors. They can be involved in cost planning, cost management, procurement,
contract administration, feasibility studies and asset financial management and all activities related to making the financial operation of
the property and construction industries as trouble-free and effective as possible.
Quantity Surveyors perform the role of cost management throughout the life of a project from the concept stage through acquisition and
operation and finally to disposal. The Quantity Surveyor in the role of cost manager is a competent and experienced person who will
safeguard the client’s interests and endeavour to minimise contractual claims and unexpected financial pressures on the budget.
The following competency standards describe the skills required by Quantity Surveyors in providing professional services to the
property and construction industries and are broken down into units of competency.
Each unit of competency describes in broad terms a particular element of a Quantity Surveyor’s function in terms of performance
criteria, range indicators and evidence guides.
Performance criteria specify the outcomes to demonstrate acceptable performance achieved for each element of competency.
Range indicators frame the boundaries within which the performance criteria apply.
Evidence guides give an indication of tangible results that confirm satisfactory demonstration of competence.
Entry or Graduate level Quantity Surveyors first demonstrate acquisition of these competencies by successful completion of their
tertiary degree course. This enables them to proceed to Probationer level where these competencies are improved and expanded
through supervised “on the job” training and experience over a minimum of two years. Their competencies are then reassessed by the
Institute through a review process and attendance at an Assessment of Professional Competence interview, which they must pass
before proceeding to Associate Level.
Associates and Fellows may acquire the additional competencies through further formal education (post graduate studies), continuing
professional development or “in-house” training and work experience.
3
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors wishes to acknowledge the contribution of a special task force established by the Institute in 1995 under
the direction of the Institute’s President, Professor Dennis Lenard, which resulted in a draft set of standards in August 1995.
These standards were then further researched, developed and edited by Dr Alan Bowen-James, Senior Research Scientist with the Faculty of Design,
Architecture and Building, University of Technology, Sydney.
Final development and review was carried out by Martin Hinds a Life Fellow of the Institute.
CAVEAT
The many competencies described in this publication may be acquired by individual Quantity Surveyors over a lifetime of professional practice,
education and training.
Most Quantity Surveyors should have attained the competencies listed as “core” or essential, either after graduation from their tertiary course and in their
first five to ten years of on the job training in a Quantity Surveying practice.
A number of the other competencies are quite specialised and therefore optional and might only be acquired by Quantity Surveyors working in a specific
area or on particular projects.
It is therefore unlikely that all these competencies will be found in any one Quantity Surveyor. However, in many Quantity Surveying practices the
balance of these competencies is likely to be provided by pooling all the skills of the various staff.
The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) publishes a Members’ Business Register which lists the services provided by members’ practices.
People seeking Quantity Surveying services should refer to that Register and ascertain directly that the members concerned are able to provide the skills
or competencies required for a particular task.
4
BASIC ABILITIES
The basic characteristics of the abilities that lead to a competent Quantity Surveyor are:
• Analysis. The ability to observe, assess, identify problems and find innovative solutions.
• Communication. The ability to impart knowledge, ideas and concepts through oral, written and visual means.
• Interpersonal Skills. The ability to effectively work with others and to be part of a team.
• Self-Development. The ability to set goals, display enthusiasm, self motivate and undertake research.
• Management. The ability to organise, monitor, control and plan the effective use of resources.
• Documentation. The ability to prepare written information in a format which clearly conveys meaning.
• Computer Literacy. The ability to understand and apply basic computer skills.
These basic abilities form the platform from which a competent Quantity Surveyor can develop and are an integral part of the various
units of competence.
5
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
Project cost management involves various cost management and procurement procedures to ensure that the Client's budget is properly
established and maintained.
COST MANAGEMENT
Cost management of a project includes establishing the budget and then effectively monitoring and reporting against that budget on a
regular basis, cost planning the evolving design, preparing appropriate contract documentation and advising on variations and claims
during the progress of the project.
Range Indicators
Competencies in cost management will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in project cost management including:
• strategies for gathering data and carrying out research on current construction costs and future predictions
• analysis of data relating to costing, budgeting and cashflows including financial implications of various options
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
COST MANAGEMENT
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the cost management process
and the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
COST MANAGEMENT
1.1 Provide strategic advice on the 1.1.1 Various techniques for value optimisation
costs and benefits of various established and implemented
courses of action on a construction
project 1.1.2 Advice on various courses of action
provided
1.2 Conduct economic and financial 1.2.1 Relevant financial and economic data collected
analyses for the life of a
construction project 1.2.2 Financial and economic data analysed for life of
project
1.3 Provide input into the development 1.3.1 Relevant data collected
of the project brief
1.3.2 Input into project brief provided
1.5 Prepare cost benefit analyses 1.5.1 Data for cost benefit analyses accessed and
evaluated
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
COST MANAGEMENT
2.4 Establish budget for 2.4.1 Cost budgets for all contracts
project prepared and established
9
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
COST MANAGEMENT
3.1 Establish project cost 3.1.1 Project cost objectives clarified with Client, colleagues and other
objectives and parameters appropriate personnel
3.2 Access data to produce 3.2.1 Appropriate data gathering structures and relevant schedules developed
estimate/indicative costs
3.2.2 Data for cost estimates/indicative costs collected and evaluated
3.3 Analyse time related cost 3.3.1 Time related cost data analysed
data
3.4 Undertake project cost 3.4.1 Project cost estimate completed using time-related cost data
estimate
3.5 Analyse and advise 3.5.1 Analyses of design construction details completed
on various alternative
design solutions 3.5.2 Design solutions evaluated
3.6 Prepare project 3.6.1 Implementation and procurement plan clearly specified
implementation and
procurement plan 3.6.2 Stages of the project identified with defined outcomes
3.7 Evaluate outcomes and 3.7.1 Outcomes of the planning process evaluated
analyse financial and non-
financial return 3.7.2 Implementation strategy analysed for financial and non financial return
3.8 Prepare cost plan 3.8.1 Documentation input into cost plan prepared based on sound principles
and accepted practice
3.9 Undertake scope audit 3.9.1 Scope audit undertaken based on sound principles and accepted
practice
3.10 Provide advice to Clients 3.10.1 Involvement in on-going planning/review cycle maintained
on estimate, cost
alternatives and cost plan 3.10.2 Advice on cost plan provided to Client based on analysis of data
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
COST MANAGEMENT
4.3 Assess and advise on the 4.3.1 Cost estimates reviewed and
accuracy of cost evaluated
estimates
4.3.2 Advice provided on accuracy
of estimates
11
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
Contract administration involves effective cost management of the project during the construction phase including preparation of cost
management documents, management of cashflow including progress payments and rise and fall calculations, negotiation of claims and
scope changes, dispute resolution and progressive reporting to the Client.
Range Indicators
Competencies in contract administration will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in project contract administration including:
• strategies for gathering data and carrying out research on current trends in contract administration
• analysis of the financial implications of construction process, rise and fall calculations and outcomes of negotiations on
variations and claims
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the contract administration
process and the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
13
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
5.1 Prepare construction cost 5.1.1 Cost management document prepared (priced bill of
management document quantities or priced work breakdown structure)
5.2 Manage cash flow during 5.2.1 Parameters relating to cash flow established
construction
5.2.2 Data accessed, processed and evaluated
5.3 Recommend progress 5.3.1 Procedures for handling progress payments developed and
payments during implemented
construction phase
5.3.2 Reports from specialist consultants obtained and evaluated
5.4 Clarify the extent of rise and 5.4.1 Sound data gathering techniques employed
fall costs and access data
5.4.2 All required data accessed
5.6 Conduct negotiations on 5.6.1 Negotiation carried out based on sound preparation and accurate
adjustment of rise and fall data
costs
5.6.2 Negotiation conducted in a professional manner to achieve
acceptable outcomes
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
5.7 Prepare progressive financial 5.7.1 Format for progressive financial reports developed
reports during construction
phase 5.7.2 Required financial information accessed and analysed
5.8 Arrange settlement of accounts 5.8.1 Relevant data collected, analysed and evaluated
during construction phase
5.8.2 Report compiled and negotiation undertaken
5.9 Communicate with Client 5.9.1 Client kept informed at all stages
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
6.1 Establish extent of 6.1.1 Proposed and actual scope change clarified
proposed and actual
scope changes 6.1.2 Parameters and objectives clarified;
6.2 Collect all data relevant 6.2.1 Data gathering structure and schedules
to scope changes established
6.4 Manage cost claims 6.4.1 Procedures for handling cost claims
during construction developed and implemented
6.5 Communicate with Client 6.5.1 Client kept informed at all stages
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
7.1 Establish background and collect 7.1.1 Relevant data collected, analysed and
all data relevant to claim evaluated
7.2 Conduct negotiation on claim 7.2.1 Key issues for each party identified
settlement
7.2.2 Best/worst case scenarios for each party
identified
7.3 Prepare claim and resolution 7.3.1 Client kept informed at all stages
status report for Client
7.3.2 Client briefed on best/worst case
scenarios
17
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROCUREMENT
Procurement involves the various processes by which a construction contract is achieved including the use of the appropriate project
delivery system and standard form of contract, the method of tendering and contractor selection, the provision of bills of quantities and
the subsequent acceptance of a tender.
Range Indicators
Competencies in procurement will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity Surveyor.
The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will normally be
acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in procurement including:
• strategies for gathering data and carrying out research on project delivery systems, contractor selection and forms of
contract
• appropriate recording and documentation of information including registration of interest, preparation of bills of quantities
and work breakdown structures
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
18
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROCUREMENT
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the procurement process and
the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
19
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROCUREMENT
8.1 Collect information required to 8.1.1 Clients objectives established and confirmed
specify procurement
requirements 8.1.2 Objectives of process specified
8.2 Evaluate project delivery systems 8.2.1 Project delivery systems reviewed
8.5 Manage tendering process 8.5.1 Tender and contract documents prepared
8.6 Prepare documentation inputs to 8.6.1 Advice on appropriate tender documentation provided
the tender
8.6.2 Bills of Quantities or work breakdown structures to aid
tendering process prepared
8.7 Initiate tenderer selection process 8.7.1 Tenderer selection criteria determined
20
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROCUREMENT
8.9 Evaluate and negotiate 8.9.1 Data gathered using appropriate structures
tenders and procedures
21
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROCUREMENT
9.1 Establish Client 9.1.1 Client objectives, risk acceptance and other factors
requirements and advise on assessed
alternative contract
document types 9.1.2 Alternative contract document types explained to Client
9.2 Recommend and agree 9.2.1 Alternative method of measurement types explained to
method of measurement Client
and input document
requirements 9.2.2 Expected quality and timing of input documents
assessed
9.3 Develop management plan 9.3.1 Trade or other document breakdown determined
for resources and other
requirements 9.3.2 Appropriate resource levels quantified and
allocated
9.4 Access and distribute input 9.4.1 Input documents validated and registered
documents
9.4.2 Input documents distributed to Quantity Surveying
team
9.5 Prepare Bill of Quantities 9.5.1 Measurement (software) system established and set
up
22
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROCUREMENT
9.6 Undertake quantity and 9.6.1 Input document discrepancies and/or omissions
other checks noted and queried during measurement
9.7 Prepare Addenda as 9.7.1 Final Bill adjusted for corrections to input
required documents and errors and/or omissions
23
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
FINANCIAL AUDIT
Financial audit involves an independent assessment that risk is being effectively managed to the satisfaction of the Client or their
financier.
The audit service provides a level of confidence for the Client/financier in terms of the containment of risk from both financial and
management aspects.
• time control
• financial control
Range Indicators
Competencies in financial audit will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity Surveyor.
The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will normally be
acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the production of financial audits
• strategies for gathering data and carrying out research on legal and financial issues
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
24
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
FINANCIAL AUDIT
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the financial audit process and
the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
25
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
FINANCIAL AUDIT
COMPETENCY STANDARD UNIT 10
10.1 Establish project objectives and 10.1.1 Project objectives clarified in discussion
parameters with Client or their financier
10.3 Confirm interface with 10.3.1. Formal arrangements for interface with
consultants, contractors and others arranged
other relevant data providers
10.4 Establish reporting 10.4.1 Reporting format confirmed with the Client
details including level of supporting
documentation
10.5 Implement financial audit 10.5.1 Initial financial audit completed in relation
to design documentation, compliance
issues and project delivery
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PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
RESOURCE ANALYSIS
Resource analysis involves carrying out various studies in construction resource management including associated productivity
estimates/forecasts and subsequent monitoring of performance.
Range Indicators
Competencies in resource analysis will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in resource analysis
• strategies for gathering data and carrying out research on resource factors
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
27
PROJECT COST MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
RESOURCE ANALYSIS
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of resource analysis and the
setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
11.3 Prepare resource and productivity 11.3.1 Resource usage reports prepared
usage reports
11.3.2 Productivity reports prepared
11.5 Develop and implement 11.5.1 Procedures for data gathering developed
appropriate procedure for data
gathering 11.5.2 Data gathering implemented
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ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
Asset financial management involves independent advice on the cost of ownership of property particularly in the areas of feasibility, tax,
audits, life cycle cost analysis and technical due diligence.
FEASIBILITY STUDIES
Feasibility studies assess the viability of a project over its expected life and are a necessary prerequisite to any effective decision
making process including obtaining finance.
Range Indicators
Competencies in feasibility studies will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of a feasibility study including:
• research and data gathering strategies related to the collection of predictive information
• use of appropriate analysis and evaluation techniques including discounted cash flows and sensitivity analyses
• appropriate recording and documentation practice particularly in relation to compilation of data on completed projects
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
29
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
FEASIBILITY STUDIES
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the feasibility process and the
setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
30
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
FEASIBILITY STUDIES
12.4 Communicate outcomes 12.4.1 Client given accurate information and advice
of study to Client leading to acceptable functional and financial
outcomes
31
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
Life Cycle Cost Analyses involves various considerations of the total cost of ownership over the whole life of a property asset.
Range Indicators
Competencies in life cycle cost analysis will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of life cycle cost analyses including:
• strategies for accessing data relating to life cycle and cost in use information and research
• appropriate recording and documentation practice particularly as applied to life cycle costs
• national and international trends in the use of Life Cycle Cost Analysis
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the life cycle cost analysis
process and the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
13.1 Establish project objectives and 13.1.1 Project objectives clarified in discussion with
parameters Client and other consultants
13.2 Confirm data elements 13.2.1 Data elements affecting life cycle costs
determined
13.3 Establish data projection information 13.3.1 Escalation and discounting factors
established and financial projections
confirmed
13.4 Establish time aspect over which 13.4.1 Time aspect confirmed including importance
analysis process is to be or otherwise of short, medium and long term
considered projections
13.5 Establish data sources and collection 13.5.1 Data sources and validity of data clarified
and confirmation process
13.6 Confirm reporting format layout and 13.6.1 Reporting requirements confirmed with the
presentation Client
13.7 Complete life cycle cost analysis 13.7.1 Life cycle cost analysis completed
33
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
TAX DEPRECIATION
Tax Depreciation involves the calculation of appropriate tax depreciation write offs of all eligible items.
Range Indicators
Competencies in tax depreciation will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity Surveyor.
The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will normally be
acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the development of tax depreciation schedules
including:
• research and data gathering strategies and structures as applied to information relating to tax depreciation including latest
government tax rulings
• use of appropriate analysis and evaluation techniques in preparation of estimates of value of items and construction costs
including appropriate fees, site charge, sales tax, import duties etc.
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
TAX DEPRECIATION
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient production of tax depreciation schedules and
the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
35
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
Quantity Surveyors are involved in a number of special assessments including calculation of taxes, stamp duties, rates and charges
associated with property as well as replacement cost estimates for insurance purposes and tenancy reinstatement estimates.
• Sales Tax Assessments involve calculation of the appropriate tax on the sale value of goods manufactured in Australia
including flow on of appropriate exemption benefits.
• Stamp Duty Assessments involve calculation of the appropriate State imposed duty on the transfer of interest in land.
• Land Tax Assessments involve calculation of the appropriate State imposed tax based upon the unimproved value of all land
owned by taxpayers including lodgement of objections to the relevant State body.
• Capital Gains Tax Assessments involve calculation of the appropriate tax on capital gains on property assets acquired after
September 1985.
• Local Authority Rate Assessments involve calculation of the appropriate rates on property assets as levied by appropriate local
governments based upon valuations established by the Valuer General in accordance with the relevant State Act.
• Body Corporate Charge Assessments involve calculation of the appropriate charge common to all unit holders as defined by
the Body Corporate under the relevant State Act.
• Replacement Cost Estimates involve calculation of the appropriate building cost for insurance or valuation purposes including
any specific exclusions and allowances for time related impacts.
• Tenancy Reinstatement Assessments involve estimating the approximate cost of reinstatement of premises on cessation of a
lease in accordance with the terms of the lease including clearly defining work outside the scope of the lease.
Range Indicators
Competencies in various special assessments will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional
Quantity Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such
knowledge will normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work
experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of specialised assessments
including:
• strategies for accessing data relating to regulations and legal requirements, research and data gathering
• analysis of data for preparation of estimates for tax and insurance purposes
36
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS (Continued)
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the Special Assessments and
the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
37
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
15a.1 Confirm the service objectives 15a.1.1 Service objectives clarified in discussion with
and strategy the Client and other appropriate personnel
15a.2 Confirm interface with contractor 15a.2.1 Arrangements between Client and Contractors
and sub-contractors established and confirmed
15a.3 Establish reporting format 15a.3.1 Reporting format confirmed in line with Clients
brief
15a.4 Complete sales tax assessment 15a.4.1 Sales tax assessment completed
15b.1 Confirm the service objectives 15b.1.1 Service objectives determined with the Client
and advisers
15b.3 Establish reporting format 15b.3.1 Reporting format confirmed with the Client
15b.4 Complete stamp duty assessment 15b.4.1 Stamp duty assessment completed
38
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
15c.1 Confirm the service objectives 15c.1.1 Service objectives determined with the Client and
and strategy advisers
15c.2 Confirm interface with 15c.2.1 Limitations of the service to be provided clearly
other professional defined including the interface with any
consultants conjunctional services to be provided by others
15c.3 Establish reporting details 15c.3.1 Reporting format confirmed in line with Clients
brief
15c.4 Complete land tax assessment 15c.4.1 Land tax assessment completed
39
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
15d.1 Confirm the service objectives 15d.1.1 Service objectives determined with the Client and
advisers
15d.2 Confirm the cost base of 15d.2.1 Cost base of assets confirmed based on
assets purchase established at a given point in time,
including all eligible purchasing costs such as
stamp duty charges, legal costs, real estate
costs and similar
15d.4 Confirm interface with 15d.4.1 Impact on the service provisions of any
other professional interface requirement confirmed with other
consultants professional consultants
15d.5 Establish reporting 15d.5.1 Reporting format confirmed in line with Clients’
details brief
15d.6 Complete capital gains 15d.6.1 Capital gains tax assessment completed
tax assessment
40
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
15e.1 Confirm the service objectives 15e.1.1 Service objectives determined with the Client and
and strategy advisers
15e.2 Confirm interface with 15e.2.1 Limitations of the service to be provided clearly
other professional defined including interface with any
consultants conjunctional service to be provided by others
15e.3 Establish reporting 15e.3.1 Reporting format confirmed in line with Clients’
details brief
15e.4 Complete local authority rates 15e.4.1 Local authority rates assessment completed
assessment
41
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
15f.1 Confirm the service objectives 15f.1.1 Service objectives clarified with the Client
15f.2 Define common areas to be assessed 15f.2.1 Charges for operating and maintaining discreetly
different common areas of the property defined,
eg., exterior of buildings, external common areas,
external services, carparking, entry foyer, lobby
areas, plant rooms and similar
15f.3 Define common charges to be 15f.3.1 Charges for operating and maintaining the
assessed common areas defined, eg., insurance, painting,
cleaning, servicing, heating, cooling, lighting,
sharing of installation costs and similar
15f.4 Establish reporting format 15f.4.1 Reporting format confirmed with the Client
including level of detail required
15f.5 Complete body corporate charge 15f.5.1 Body corporate charge assessment completed
assessment
15g.1 Establish service objectives 15g.1.1 Service objectives clarified with the Client
including any diversification from standard practice
15g.2 Confirm extent of service 15g.2.1 Extent of service confirmed including demolition of
existing building, re-design documentation, re-
construction including or excluding tenancy fit-
outs.
Note: Where buildings of historical significance are
involved replacement with a contemporary
equivalent may be proposed
15g.3 Confirm time frames 15g.3.1 Time frames relative to reporting confirmed with
the Client
15g.4 Establish reporting format 15g.4.1 Reporting format confirmed with Client including
level of required supporting documentation
15g.5 Complete replacement cost estimate 15g.5.1 Replacement cost estimate completed
42
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
15h.1 Establish service objectives 15h.1.1 Service objectives clarified with the Client
and scope of work including any interface with other consultants
or advisers and scope of work established
15h.2 Confirm lease terms and 15h.2.1 Implications of lease terms confirmed in
requirements respect to tenancy reinstatement, eg., reinstate
to same condition as start of lease with part
wear and tear, or no arrangement in lease
15h.3 Confirm extent of brief 15h.3.1 Confirm scope of works to be carried out by
including defining work tenant, ie., remove furniture, business
by others equipment etc.
15h.5 Establish reporting format 15h.5.1 Reporting format confirmed with the Client
including level of supporting documentation
43
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
AUDITS
• providing a detailed condition statement on a property from which future management and financial directions may be
determined, taking into account potential environmental and life cycle considerations
• identifying appropriate energy usage and maintenance characteristics of a property to assist future directions and
strategies and minimise maintenance costs and energy usage.
• providing a defined listing of the component plant, equipment and general fabric that make up a property asset for use in
various tax, maintenance management, stocktaking and general ownership decisions.
Range Indicators
Competencies in audits will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity Surveyor. The
work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will normally be
acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of audits including:
• strategies for accessing data relating to regulations and legal requirements, research and data gathering
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
44
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
AUDITS
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the audit process and the
setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
16a.1 Establish project objectives and 16a.1.1 Project objectives clarified and discussed with
parameters Client and other consultants
16a.2 Confirm the basis and level of 16a.2.1 Reporting level defined on either an overview
reporting or detailed basis and implications of the
reports confirmed
16a.3 Co-ordinate the functions of the 16a.3.1 Functions of various consultants confirmed
various consultants
16a.4 Confirm reporting format, layout 16a.4.1 Reporting detail confirmed with the Client and
presentation and level of detail consultant team.
required
45
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
AUDITS
16b.1 Establish project objectives and 16b.1.1 Service objectives determined with the Client
parameters
16b.1.2 Energy usage and characteristics considered
and reviewed.
16b.2 Access available data and 16b.2.1 Availability of data established including its
information relevance and requirements to meet the brief
16b.3 Confirm audit timing 16b.3.1 Initial audit program established including timing
of subsequent audits eg. annually or other
16b.4 Establish reporting details 16b.4.1 Reporting format confirmed in line with
Client's brief. Reports should confirm that
property is being maintained in accordance
with the adopted program. Reports should
highlight potential for minimising future
maintenance or energy costs
16c.1 Confirm the service 16c.1.1 Service objectives determined with the Client
objectives
16c.1.2 Clients perspective use of the asset registers
short term and long term confirmed
16c.2 Confirm interface with other 16c.2.1 Interface with Client’s business manager,
professional consultants accountants or legal advisers confirmed
16c.3 Establish reporting details 16c.3.1 Reporting format with the Client confirmed
46
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
TECHNICAL DUE DILIGENCE
Technical Due Diligence involves reporting on the existing condition of a property highlighting any adverse factors from which future
management and financial directions in relation to purchase or sale may be determined. Legal issues are normally the subject of a
separate report carried out by professionals trained in law.
Generally the fields encompassed within the Technical Due Diligence Report are:
Compliance Reports:
− Building Regulations
− Disability Discrimination Act
Environmental Reports:
− Building Structure
− Building Facade
− Building Services
• Planning Issues
Range Indicators
Competencies in technical due diligence will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of technical due diligence including:
• strategies for accessing data relating to regulations and legal requirements, research and data gathering
• appropriate recording and documentation practice particularly as applied to technical due diligence
47
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
TECHNICAL DUE DILIGENCE
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the technical due diligence
process and the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
48
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
17.1 Establish project objectives and 17.1.1 Project objectives clarified in discussion with
parameters and format of Client, colleagues and other appropriate
Report personnel
17.2 Access available data and 17.2.1 Appropriate data gathering structures and
information relevant schedules developed
17.3 Activate consultant team 17.3.1 Consultant team instructed according to the
Clients’ requirements
17.5 Provide advice to Clients which 17.5.1 Advice provided to Client based on analysis of
outlines potential cost of data to determine future direction in line with
ownership after analysis of short, medium and long term management
results strategies
49
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
COMPLIANCE ISSUES
As part of overall asset financial management certain legislated compliance issues have to be addressed.
Range Indicators
Competencies in compliance issues will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in current government compliance issues
• strategies for accessing data relating to regulations and legal requirements, research and data gathering
Communication skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
50
ASSET FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
COMPLIANCE ISSUES
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of compliance issues.
51
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROJECT VALUE MANAGEMENT
Project value management involves the identification of best value design solutions having regard to the Clients’ project objectives.
Project value management includes life cycle cost analysis techniques as well as proactive participation in workgroup focus sessions.
Range Indicators
Competencies in project value management will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of project value management
including:
• strategies for identification of project objectives in terms of cost, time and quality
• use of cost planning techniques to establish realistic capital costs and identification of project component costs
• principles of design and construction and their relevance to best values solutions
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
52
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROJECT VALUE MANAGEMENT
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the project value management
process and the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
53
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
19.1 Identify project objectives 19.1.1 Scope of works and life cycle clearly identified
19.2 Prepare cost plan and 19.2.1 Cost planning techniques used to establish
breakdown costs total cost
19.3 Carry out life cycle cost 19.3.1 Alternative solutions to project components
analysis of alternatives identified
19.4 Instigate value management focus 19.4.1 Proactive participation in value management
sessions focus sessions carried out
54
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Quantity Surveyors, as with many of the professionals in the construction industry, are capable of carrying out the role of Project
Manager. However, project management is a separate profession and reference should be made to appropriate competency standards
including the National Competency Standards for Project Management.
55
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROJECT RISK MANAGEMENT
Project risk management involves a structured approach to the identification, analysis and treatment of events that might have an
adverse impact on achieving a project’s objectives.
• analysis of a project’s objectives and its relationship to the strategic objectives of the Client organisation
• quantification of risks using appropriate methods to enable the prioritisation of those risks
• ongoing monitoring of changing risk situations and reviewing the effectiveness of risk management strategies
Range Indicators
Competencies in project risk management will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of project risk management
including:
• strategies for accessing data relating to regulations and legal requirements, research and data gathering
• appropriate recording and documentation practice particularly as applied to project risk management
• probability theory, particularly as applied to cost and schedule uncertainty in construction projects
56
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
PROJECT RISK MANAGEMENT
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the project risk management
process and the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring risk situations at all phases of a construction project.
57
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
21.1 Analyse project objectives and 21.1.1 Project objectives identified and listed
develop a structure in which to
undertake a project risk 21.1.2 Project risk management study structure
management study developed
21.2 Use various techniques to identify 21.2.1 Risk identification session facilitated using
project risks including brainstorming techniques
brainstorming, interviews,
checklists, etc. 21.2.2 Risk management identification checklist
identified for a standard project
21.3 Use techniques to analyse and 21.3.1 Probability that a project’s objectives (eg. budget)
quantify project risks including will be met determined using sensitivity analysis
quantitative and qualitative or “monte-carlo” simulations
analysis of risk likelihood and
consequences, sensitivity 21.3.2 Prioritised list of project risks developed using
analysis, probability calculations either qualitative or quantitative techniques to
and “monte-carlo” simulations. assess risk levels
21.4 Identify suitable techniques to 21.4.1 Risks that can be managed by the project team
effectively manage project risks listed
including likelihood reduction,
impact mitigation, risk transfer and 21.4.2 Risks that are suitable for transfer to the
risk financing strategies contractor listed
58
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Quality assurance involves the systematic approach to carrying out services by the Quantity Surveyor to ensure their outcomes meet
the expectation of the Client. Quality assurance includes establishment of clear procedures, work instructions and quality records that
quantifically demonstrate correctness and compliance with the Client’s and Quantity Surveyor’s service objectives.
Range Indicators
Competencies in quality assurance will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of quality assurance including:
• establishment of a corporate quality policy and its structure and content that complies with Australian or International
Standards
• establishment of procedures that clearly describe required processes, outcomes and verification requirements
• continuous identification of improvements to procedures, outcomes and verification techniques that increase quality,
efficiency and certainty
• auditing techniques
Communication and computing skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
59
SPECIALISED MANAGEMENT COMPETENCIES
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the quality assurance process
and the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
22.1 Develop corporate quality 22.1.1 Corporate objectives in relation to quality of service and
policy service outcomes established
22.2 Develop procedures 22.2.1 Appropriate procedures for each relevant service
established
22.4 Continuously improve 22.4.1 Changes required to procedures identified to reflect changing
requirements
60
SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
Support competencies involve numerous skills that are necessary to be acquired in order to effectively practice the various services of a
Quantity Surveyor, including measuring techniques, design and construction methodologies, environmental issues identification, quasi
legal matters, general business management, service back up in computer software and hardware, research and development and an
effective cost database.
Range Indicators
Competence in support competencies will be demonstrated in the execution of typical work undertaken as a professional Quantity
Surveyor. The work in question will call for the application of extensive knowledge appropriate to the discipline. Such knowledge will
normally be acquired through a structured program of education to degree level incorporating training and work experience.
This activity would be based on a clear understanding of the processes involved in the carrying out of associated competencies
including:
• strategies for acquiring knowledge relating to regulations and legal requirements, research and data gathering
• methods of measurement
Communication skills would also be applied in conjunction with competencies in this area.
Discrimination between the application of this unit at the levels of Entry Graduate, Associate and Fellow (or Expert) is chiefly in terms of
the level of autonomy or supervision of the work required and the degree of leadership exercised. The type of projects on which the
practitioner has worked and the range of experience would also be taken into account.
Entry Graduate
The Entry Graduate would demonstrate these competencies in work undertaken under the supervision of a more senior
practitioner. The Entry Graduate would be able to work effectively and develop through experience and added responsibility
the ability to work under general guidance on the accepted range of work carried out by a professional Quantity Surveyor.
Associate
The Associate would demonstrate these competencies in the course of work associated with the application of appropriate
knowledge to recognised tasks either self managed or expert practitioner supervised activities. The Associate would have had
varied experience and worked on a range of projects.
61
SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
Competencies would be demonstrated in the course of undertaking tasks associated with the self managed application of
appropriate knowledge to recognised tasks and leadership of others in the performance of the professional activities. The
Fellow (or Expert) would be expected to have had considerable experience and demonstrated competency over a wide range
of projects.
Evidence Guide
Evidence of successful achievement of this competency would be effective and efficient management of the support competencies
process and the setting up and application of appropriate systems for monitoring of activities.
23.1 Use computers to input and 23.1.1 General skills in the use and care of computing
access information relating to hardware and software demonstrated
the full range of Quantity
Surveying applications 23.1.2 Computers used to access, enter and process
information
23.2. Use standard application 23.2.1 Word processing programs used to produce
packages in the management professional quality reports
and presentation of information
relating to construction 23.2.2 Electronic spreadsheets used to prepare schedules.
economics activities
23.2.3 Statistical packages use to manage and process
statistical data
23.3 Use computer packages for 23.3.1 Computer software for cost planning and cost
specific construction management used to achieve the most beneficial and
economics applications professional outcomes for the Client
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
COMPETENCY STANDARD UNIT 24
24.3 Apply knowledge of macro and 24.3.1 Knowledge of macro and micro economics applied to
micro economics to construction construction economics assessments
economics assessments
24.3.2 Accurate evaluation of economic trends applied in
carrying out professional activities
25.4 Interpret building 25.4.1 Building plans, specifications, construction codes and
documentation regulations interpreted
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
COMPETENCY STANDARD UNIT 27
27.1 Understand legal 27.1.1 Knowledge of previous arbitration case histories demonstrated
principles involved in
arbitration proceedings 27.1.2 Successful previous arbitration history or participation under
supervision in previous successful arbitration demonstrated
27.2 Manage the preliminary 27.2.1 Agreement to refer the dispute to arbitration documented
conference based on
knowledge of arbitration 27.2.2 Nature of proceedings and running costs negotiated
process and legal
principles 27.2.3 Legal representation of parties decided
26.3 Prepare material for the 27.3.1 Timetable for hearing of dispute prepared
hearing
27.3.2 Points of claim and defence listed
27.4 Conduct the 27.4.1 Proceedings of the hearing conducted in accordance with legal
hearing principles and knowledge of the arbitration process
27.6 Prepare award 27.6.1 Award written in accordance with accepted principles based on the
stated case
27.7 Determine costs 27.7.1 Costs determined based on knowledge of contracting methods and
business finance
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
28.3 Brief counsel and solicitors 28.3.1 Basis of evidence and methodology explained
28.4 Give evidence 28.4.1 Concise and clear presentation given, based on complete
and thorough knowledge of the matter
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
(a) COMMUNICATION
29a.1 Communicate effectively with 29a.1.1 Technical information clearly and accurately
colleagues, Clients, suppliers communicated
and contractors
29a.1.2 Appropriate means of communication selected for a
variety of situations, instructions given and received
accurately
29a.2 Access, organise and analyse 29a.2.1 Research undertaken to access information of a technical
information to provide the basis and financial nature
for written reports and
presentations 29a.2.2 Information for reports and presentations organised in a
coherent and logical way for oral or written presentation
29a.4 Write reports 29a.4.1 Material logically organised for inclusion in a report
29a.5 Take part in formal and 29a.5.1 Formal meeting procedure adhered to when
informal meetings appropriate
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
29b.1 Establish and maintain 29b.1.1 Data collected from empirical observations, other bodies,
information systems technical and scientific literature and existing buildings for
storage and retrieval
29c.3 Assume professional 29c.3.1 Potential professional risks and liabilities recognised
responsibility for own
actions
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
29d.2 Plan and implement training 29d.2.1 Training needs of staff determined
programs
29d.2.2 Training manual produced and regularly updated
29d.3 Understand and apply 29d.3.1 Principle of law of employee / employer relationship
principle of industrial law understood and applied
and industrial relations
29d.3.2 Effective resolution of staff disputes carried out
(e) MARKETING
29e.1 Prepare market plan and 29e.1.1 Marketing needs assessed and marketing strategy
implement effectively reviewed
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
(f) ACCOUNTING
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
29g.1.4 Mental and physical fitness sustained at a level which enable work
performance requirements to be met
29g.2 Negotiate, plan and 29g.2.1 Competing demands assessed and organised to achieve individual
organise personal team and organisation priorities
work priorities
29g.2.2 Events managed to accomplish individual, team and organisation’s
goals and objectives and project requirements
29g.3 Develop and 29g.3.1 Personal strengths and weaknesses assessed to determine
maintain personal personal development priorities
competence
29g.3.2 Feedback on performance used to identify and develop ways to
improve knowledge and skills
29g.4 Access and share 29g.4.1 Sources of data identified and accessed to ensure that relevant
relevant information is available to work groups
information
29g.4.2 Legislation, codes of practice and organisational policies and
practices assessed to identify the provisions relevant to the
workplace
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
29g.5 Plan and introduce 29g.5.1 Requirements and guidelines discussed with colleagues to
processes to establish procedures appropriate to the work group
implement workplace
requirement 29g.5.2 Responsibilities of individuals and work groups in developing a
safe and fair workplace agreed and understood
29g.6 Understand 29g.6.1 Legislation, codes of practice and organisational policies and
employment law and practices assessed to identify the provisions relevant to the
statutory industrial workplace
issues
29g.7 Promote continuous 29g.7.1 Responsibilities of individuals and work groups in developing a
improvement safe and fair workplace understood
29g.8 Monitor and adjust 29g.8.1 Work performed in a safe and fair environment
performance
29g.8.2 Potential and actual problems identified and rectified promptly
and decisively
29g.9 Investigate non 29g.9.1 Accidents and incidents investigated and dealt with according
conformance to agreed procedures and processes
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
29h.1 Convey and receive 29h.1.1 Ideas presented and expressed in individual and group
information and ideas situations, using appropriate communication techniques
29h.2 Develop trust and 29h.2.1 People treated with integrity, respect and empathy
confidence
29h.2.2 High personal, ethical and organisational standards
demonstrated and promoted
29h.3 Project a professional 29h.3.1 High personal, ethical and organisational standards
image demonstrated and promoted
29h.4 Build and maintain 29h.4.1 Networking used in internal and external environments to
networks and identify and build relationships
relationships
29h.4.2 Networking and other work relationships maintained and
used to provide identifiable benefits for the team,
organisation and Client
29h.5 Negotiate positive 29h.5.1 Problems identified and analysed, and action taken to rectify
outcomes to rectify the situation with minimal disruption to performance
difficulties
29h.5.2 Industrial relations issues handled within the organisations
processes and procedures
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
30.2 Formulate concepts for 30.2.1 Promising concepts examined and evaluated
development
30.2.2 Requirements for development identified
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SUPPORT COMPETENCIES
31.3 Set up database 31.3.1 Database selected to satisfy cost information requirements
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AMENDMENTS
Record all amendments here:
ISBN 1-876389-02-8
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