---
esco_uri: http://data.europa.eu/esco/skill/9be758b6-a45d-403c-8943-68390ee2c961
esco_label: "quantity surveying"
relation: optional
onet_soc: 13-1082.00
source: model-knowledge
confidence: high
qa_count: 0
generator: gemma3:27b (prompt-designed and spot-checked by Claude)
generated: 2026-07-10
---

# quantity surveying — Project Manager

As a Project Manager, 'Quantity Surveying' isn’t about *becoming* a QS, but understanding their output & leveraging it for project control. Daily, this means critically reviewing cost estimates provided by the QS – not just accepting numbers, but questioning assumptions (method of measurement, rates used) and ensuring they align with the scope of work defined in your WBS. You’ll use these figures to build your baseline budget, track actual costs against it using tools like Earned Value Management (EVM), and forecast future spend. Think of the QS as providing the detailed financial 'ingredients'; you're the chef making sure the final dish stays within budget.

Typical tasks involve validating variations requested by contractors – the QS will quantify the impact, *you* assess if it’s justified & negotiate accordingly. You’ll also use QS data during tender evaluation; beyond price, understanding how a bidder arrived at their cost (thanks to the QS's breakdown) helps assess risk and value for money.  Pitfalls include blindly accepting QS reports without independent verification, or failing to flag discrepancies early – small errors in quantities can snowball into significant budget overruns. 

Good looks like proactively using QS data *throughout* the project lifecycle - not just at the start. It’s about regular cost reporting that's clear, concise and highlights potential issues before they become critical.  It means understanding the implications of different procurement methods (e.g., lump sum vs. measurement) on cost control, and being able to discuss contract clauses related to payment & variations intelligently with both the QS and contractors.

Essentially, you're using the QS’s expertise as a core component of your overall project financial management strategy. You don't need to *do* the quantity take-offs, but you absolutely must understand what they mean, how they impact your schedule & risk profile, and how to use them to keep the project on track.

## Weitere Anreicherung

Stage-2 source for future practitioner grounding: CORE / DOAB (open-access HR & organisational research).
