Professional Documents
Culture Documents
In this issue;
Editorial;
Ch. QS. Dr. Chandana Jayalath
Ch. QS. Lalith Ratnayake
Ch. QS. Indunil Seneviratne
Ch. QS. Nandun Fernando
Publication;
Ch.QS. Nandun Fernando (Chairperson)
Ch.QS. Dr. Chandana Jayalath
Ch.QS. Majith Kodithuwakku
Ch.QS. Jayantha Dimbukkuwalage
Ch.QS. Prasath Sanjeewa
Ch.QS. Suranga Jayasena
Published by;
The Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Sri
Lanka (IQSSL)
Disclaimer;
The information contained in this publication
should not form the basis of any decision as
to a particular course of action; nor should
it be relied upon as a professional advice.
Under no circumstances shall the publisher
be liable for any direct, incidental, special and
consequential loss and damage that results
from the readers reliance or non-reliance
of information provided in this publication.
The copyright of this publication vests solely
and exclusively with the publisher and no
part may be reproduced or transmitted by
any process or means without prior written
permission of the Institute of Quantity
Surveyors, Sri Lanka.
New
Members
NewFellow
Fellow
Members
Following members are upgraded to Fellow Membership category of the Institute.
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
The main objective of the IQSSL is to work towards the betterment of construction industry
through professional inputs, contributing to countrys development. Its vision is to be recognized
as a leading professional body, initiating and fostering higher standards in Quantity Surveying
practices both locally and globally. Our mission is to make the Institute the home and voice of
Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors, protecting and promoting interests, status, welfare, rights and
privileges of the profession while safeguarding the public interest at large at all times.
From where it began, the Institute has advanced enormously, achieving much as professionals on the collective
efforts of Members who instigated and propagated the recognition of QS profession to be what it is now whilst
contributing to the national construction industry needs. As such it is my duty to place on record a few noteworthy
efforts that gave us the status and recognition we enjoy today.
IQSSL has gained due local identity as the only professional QS body in Sri Lanka while being dynamic on the global
front for advancement of profession, despite diverse challenges and reforms in the context of evolving professional
practice standards and cross border service mobility blended with global education.
A key milestone in our path I believe is the incorporation of the Institute by a parliamentary Act in 2007. It provides
us valuable status to be the only recognized professional body in QS in Sri Lanka. Such recognition in the professional
sphere paved way for our Members to be deployed for positions of responsibility in preparation of feasibility studies,
contract administration, fund management, payment processing and management of claims in the state sector and
the private sector too followed suit by consistently recognizing our profession as a valuable component in their
construction projects.
Moreover, inclusion of QS profession as a recognized service in the public service endorsed by the Ministry of
Construction is now being modeled for implementation by the Ministry of Public Administration. It would give due
recognition for ones status based on academic and professional qualifications.
Together with other peer organizations, the Governing Council of the Institute along with state agencies was involved
in the enactment of the Construction Industry Development Authority Act by the Parliament.
In the academic sphere, the College of Quantity Surveying successfully continues with conducting of HND and
L1, L2 and L3 professional level courses while the Board of QS Education conducts APC and ATC tests and Graduate
Qualifying Examination in addition to the CPD programmes of the Professional Affairs Board, maintaining highest
standards as a professional body.
The Institute has entered into many reciprocity agreements with Global Professional Quantity Surveying bodies
such as Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors and Pacific Association of Quantity Surveyors. While continuing
to reach out to similar professional organisations to explore synergies of member services and service delivery, we
will constantly engage with government and industry organisations to create awareness over services and functions
of the QS profession.
We have enhanced the official website of the Institute, making it a vital portal of communication and interaction
with Members and general public, disseminating information on time. Further, membership application assessment
and processing is consolidated and enhanced to ensure speedy processing and equity in entry requirements.
This years theme for the AGM and Annual Forum is Construction cost impact on investments; Cause and effect.
Increasing complex commercial nature of the industry requires proper management of finances. Also, as
the construction is a complex industry, QS is becoming an important profession than ever before. However, QS professionals must update themselves with rapidly advancing technology, market conditions and
commercial management to be on par with current trends, in their professional practices.
Also, Members should impart knowledge gained among others in the profession as it would ultimately
benefit the industry to achieve development goals of the country through expansion of investments in the
sector.
I assure all in the industry that we as IQSSL will strive to maintain even higher standards in providing
professional QS services for the advancement and betterment of the industry.
I thank all persons and organizations for their valuable support extended towards development of the
QS profession in Sri Lanka and the IQSSL in particular, and wish all our Members for an even brighter
future.
Ch.QS. Mr. Nishantha Wickramasinghe
BSc. (QS) (Hons), MSc (Pro. Mgt), F.I.Q.S.SL
President
Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Sri Lanka
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
It is my pleasure and privilege as the Vice President of Institute of Quantity Surveyors Sri Lanka
to send this message on the occasion of the Institutes AGM & Annual Forum of 2015. This year,
the forum is based on the timely theme of Construction Cost Impact: Cause and Effect.
Sri Lanka as a developing nation is identified together with other emerging market economies
having the potential to develop at an unprecedentedly fast phase. In this journey of development
of our nation, the construction industry will play a vital role in terms of Gross Domestic Product
as well as employment by distributing wealth among masses in Sri Lanka.
In this phase of Sri Lankas development we can see the thirst for development of much needed infrastructure
facilities, such as transportation in terms of roads, highways and rail roads, energy infrastructure such as power
generation, distribution and oil and gas exploration, sanitary infrastructure including water supply and drainage
as well as irrigation infrastructure and mega development of cities, housing, factories and tourism sectors. In short
all sectors in the country will develop together with the construction industry leading as the front runner.
Capital for development is mainly provided as private funded capital inflows or Government funding through
borrowings. Both private and government capital inflows need reasonable return on their investments though
there is fundamental difference in degree and type of return.
It is widely known that construction cost is a major factor that affects financial feasibility of development projects.
Even use of cost benefit analysis techniques to assess viability of public infrastructure projects shows that
construction cost is a vital factor affecting viability of a project.
In this background of rapid development we experience ever changing economic conditions and an unyielding
urge to achieve value for money in development projects. It is this status quo that makes the theme of our Annual
Forum remarkably relevant to Quantity Surveyors in Sri Lanka as it is Quantity Surveyors who try to achieve a
balance between investors objectives and ground realities. During the forum, participants will get an insight of the
cause and effect of construction cost to development projects.
Institute of Quantity Surveyors Sri Lanka acknowledge the support given by the Government throughout its
history by incorporation of the Institute through the national legislation, recognition of the profession in the
construction industry related acts as well as appointment of its Members into various committees of government
institutes. I am confident that many steps taken by the Institute over the past years including conducting of
continued professional development programmes, academic and professional improvements and introduction of
procedures in line with recent Construction Industry Development Authority Act etc., have molded our Members
to face new challenges that may arise in coming years with the rapid development of our country.
Undoubtedly, every citizen of the country has a moral duty to perceive and contribute to development efforts of
the Government. It is undoubtable that Institute of Quantity Surveyors Sri Lanka will have an important role to
play in its sphere of expertise in shouldering the development goals of Sri Lanka.
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
As per the Rules of IQSSL, PAB is entrusted with tasks of advising the Governing Council on
various matters, handling disciplinary actions and conducting programmes aimed at professional
development of members of the Institute. During the last year PAB mostly concentrated on
priorities identified by the Governing Council and the members of PAB.
The Board recognized that helping the membership to enhance their knowledge to establish
themselves in the industry with good practices is a prime requirement. Towards that CPD
programmes were conducted in the areas of procurement, life cycle costing and construction
management with well experienced resource personnel in academia and practice. Round Table Discussions were
also conducted with practicing QSs (mostly Chartered Quantity Surveyors) to discuss and share experiences gained
through problems they faced when working in specific areas such as project feasibility and using CESMM. All of
those CPDs and Round Table Discussions were very successful and members were given ample opportunity to
interact with the Institute as well.
During the last year newly drafted Disciplinary Procedure was approved by the Members of IQSSL at the EGM
for implementation. A special CPD on ethical practices and conduct of QSs and introduction of new Disciplinary
Procedure was conducted for Non Corporate membership of the Institute with remarkable participation.
PAB is closely working with the Institute in establishing a Service Minute for QS Service in the Government sector.
Further, with the direction and guidance of the Governing Council PAB continued to engage regularly with regulatory
authorities and other professional institutions. Active participation at CIDA in scrutinizing new publications,
partaking at various committees, international and local conferences, forums and networking are few of such
involvements.
Preparation of Practice Manual for Practicing QSs has commenced and is expected to be finalized in the coming
year.
Apart from the duties entrusted, PAB contributes to other Boards also when required and to the Governing Council
in developing certain formalities.
As Chairperson, I would like to thank all Board Members and other who voluntarily extended their support for PAB
activities to enhance and maintain the image of the Institute, and positively hope and look forward for much active
participation of Board Members in the coming year, too.
2
0
1
5
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
NO. OF MEMBERS
Fellow
26 Nos.
Associate
231 Nos.
Graduate
373 Nos.
Technical
134 Nos.
Probationary
28 Nos.
Students
2227 Nos.
Total
3,019 Nos
During the last year, Associate membership grew by 8%. We have also noted a considerable interest for Technical
membership from candidates who successfully complete Level III professional examination conducted by the
IQSSL. Number of interviews were conducted with those who applied for Probationary membership to assess
their work experience.
Total student membership is about 2,230. With more education opportunities being available in Sri Lanka and
abroad, we encourage students to explore all existing membership routes for Associate membership.
I thank members of the Board, namely Ch. QS. Mrs. Devika Liyanage, Ch. QS. Mr. Rajitha Dassanayake, Ch. QS. Mrs.
Nilmini Thilakarathna and Ch. QS. Mr. Mahinda Goonawardena who worked tirelessly to make the Boards affairs
a success.
A
n
n
u
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
As the Chairperson of Board of Quantity Surveying Education and Training (BQSET) I am pleased
to place on record the progress made by the Board in various activities it undertook during the
year 2014/ 2015.
The BQSET and its Sub Committees are very pleased to note that many activities initiated by
them during the period under review could be completed by the end of the year. Remaining
activities have also made satisfactory progress and had undergone many revisions.
An activity of high priority entrusted to the BQSET by the Governing Council was continuation of conducting preparatory lecture series for APC candidates, popularly called the Charter
Classes. These lectures were conducted for the February 2015 and September 2015 APCs.
In 2015 a new syllabus was introduced for the Professional Level III. A major feature of the new syllabus is its Quantity Surveying Practice Module conducted during two semesters. The students who follow this module have to make
a presentation and face a viva -voce on their experience which will enable students to confidently face an APC in
future.
On a recommendation of the BQSET, IQSSL became a contributing institution to accreditation of Bachelor of Construction (Surveying) degree offered by the University of Hong Kong and to re-accreditation of Bachelor of Quantity
Surveying (Honours) degree conducted by the Taylors University Malaysia. These accreditations were made by the
Pacific Association of Quantity Surveyors (PAQS). Furthermore, consequent to a resolution adopted on 10 May 2013 by
the IQSSL, the BQSET conducted the Graduate Member Qualifying Exam (GMQE) for non-accredited degree holders.
Ten candidates sat for March 2015 GMQE and four were successful.
During the period under review, the BQSET successfully conducted two APCs, and two semesters of Levels 1, 2 and
3 of Professional Level Exams of IQSSL under both new and old syllabi. The BQSET is very much appreciative of
valuable contributions made by Members of IQSSL by serving as examiners, moderators, supervisors and invigilators
of APC, GMQE and Professional Level I, II and II Exams and also by serving as members of selection panels for both
Level I of Professional Level Exam and Quantity Surveying Practice module.
The BQSET also assisted the Board of Management of College of Quantity Surveying in negotiations the latter had
with the Northumbria University of UK on entering in to a MOU to enable HND and Professional Level students to
follow degree courses at Northumbria University.
The BQSET is very pleased with its achievements made during the year 2014/2015, and will strive to complete at its
earliest all pending activities.
2
0
1
5
10
11
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
Being the main arm of information dissemination of the IQSSL, the BQSP is entrusted with
tasks of handling both Member centered internal publications and industry and general public centered publications. Towards such, the BQSP has done its best during the past year to
maintain timely, speedy and accurate flow of information to all stakeholders, through print and
electronic media.
In that respect, the BQSP has continued with further development and enhancement of IQSSLs
only official website with more user friendly formats and a vast pool of information. Handling
of official website was entrusted to a special Web Sub Committee of BQSP established by a special resolution of the Governing Council during the year. It now carries much of the Institutes notices and other
details to all stakeholders in construction industry, with updated information provided on realtime. It is with much
appreciation that I note of contributions of Board Member Ch. QS. Mr. Suranga Jayasena in revamping and improving
the web to its present status.
During the year, we started to publish information on job opportunities on our website, rendering a dual service to
Members looking for opportunities and industry and other entities searching for properly qualified QS professionals.
It also display accurate details related to membership paths of the Institute in easy to understand mode. Statistics
indicate that such details have been useful to many individuals across the globe who seek such information, including details of accredited degrees and courses. The Web Sub Committee is currently working with Financial Affairs
Board to implement an online payment gateway. Much of the information emanating from College of Quantity Surveying and Board of Quantity Surveying Education and Training related to courses conducted and results of various
academic and professional programmes are also available on the web site now.
During the year, three issues of e-journal FOCUS were published. All material in the FOCUS are carefully vetted and
suitably edited by the Editorial Board, which functions as an independent arm of BQSP. The Board continued its
assistance to Governing Council and College of Quantity Surveying by coordinating and handling all notices and
advertisements carried in the print media.
Also, the BQSP initiated to provide a slim diary for the first time to all Corporate Members as a value added service.
Steps are being taken to continue it as an annual feature with enhanced data useful to Members being included in
the diary.
The Board also commenced compiling a comprehensive publication history of QS profession in Sri Lanka and specifically of IQSSL during the year. Its aim is to incorporate all possible recorded historical data with accuracy. Steps are
also being taken to maintain a collection of simplified articles on QS profession, its various aspects and related topics,
to be made available to media organizations for random publication as a step of public awareness campaign.
In achieving above, support extended by all Governing Council Members of IQSSL and Board members of BQSP including members of the Editorial Board and Web Sub Committee during the entire year is gratefully acknowledged
and immensely appreciated.
12
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
13
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
As the Chairperson of the Board, it is a great pride and pleasure to issue this message on the
occasion of Annual General Meeting of the Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Sri Lanka.
All five members of the Board Members contributed in organizing various activities and
events during the year facilitating the Institutes presence in professional and industry communities and general public.
Under main activities, the BOARD donated wheel chairs and provided meals to patients at the
Bandaranaike Memorial Ward in Maharagama, maintained by the Sri Lanka Cancer Society.
It also organized events such as unvailing of IPPs photograph at the IQSSL Secretariat office, a Buddhist religious
event at the Gauthama Viharaya, Narahenpita for students of College of Quantity Surveying and a meeting of
Board Chairpersons and members and Governing Council regarding tasks and goals of IQSSL.
The Board was involved in event coordination of all CPDs conducted by the Professional Affairs Board during the
year and a team of IQSSL Members participated at the Annual Inter Professional Institutes Cricket Tournament
conducted by the Organization of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka.
As Board members, namely Ch.QS. Mr. Upali Jayalath, Ch.QS. Mrs. Dilani Abeynayake, Ch.QS Mr. Bernard Gunaratne and Ch.QS. Mrs. Kasun Amali Gunasekara were involved in arranging this years Annual session and
Annual General Meeting, too.
I take this opportunity to thank all Sponsors, well wishes, the Governing Council and all Board Chairpersons and
Board Members for their generous contribution and support to make this event a success.
2
0
1
5
14
A
n
n
u
a
l
Mr. D M Pallegama,
Senior Administrative Officer
Mrs. Indrani Perera
Board Cordinator
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
16
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
Construction Costs
Given the heterogynous and numerous resource requirements for construction products, called as a product of all
other products, its cost is a serious consideration for investments. More importantly assessment of exact cost
17
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
The direct costs of resources with respective adjustments for wastages etc., intended construction methods, specified
quality standards, project specifics and other indirect cost attributes are systematically and analytically appraised
in making a cost plan with the use of historical cost data, This prediction matures in to an estimate and budget
as the project definition unfolds. Standard Method of Measurements provides a uniform basis in identifying line
items of costs and their inclusions and exclusions with the measurement principles of quantities for estimating
and valuation of construction works. The procurement methods, contractual arrangement, form of contract and
risk sharing modalities too make impacts on the construction cost.
In cost determination the impact from market conditions such as demand for construction, specialty of contractors,
competition among contractors, capacity of contractors, availability of resources, taxes and interests structures,
government monetary and fiscal policies, etc are further considerations.
When calculating project costs for feasibility studies, project selection and investment decisions it may rely on
market rates or general norms which represents most of the times the actual costs of completed projects of similar
nature and magnitude. However, without adjustments for project specific characteristics such superficial norms
may mislead the return on investments. This complex cost estimating process must be managed by a competent
professional Quantity Surveyor with the assistance of other construction professionals design and technical inputs
to ensure investments are done with reasonably accurate feasibility studies and cost / cash flow estimates.
At the initial stages of projects, where construction works becomes a reasonable component, it is a very common
query of the investors to ask Why Construction Cost is so high as it is noticeable among the high cost items list.
It is natural to look at construction as a cost element rather than a long life valuable asset creation. In fairness to
investors money for investments is not freely available in any amount but a scarce resource. Finally it has to be a
well-informed decision on construction cost rather than a costly decision.
However, statistics indicate that Cost of Construction in India is the lowest in the Asian region. Cost of construction
in Sri Lanka is slightly higher than India and seems to be higher than Bangladesh. Construction costs in other
countries in Asia region, i,e Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Thaiwan close to Sri Lankan norms whereas
Vietnam costs are comparatively higher than the others. Notwithstanding that, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
inflows indicate that FDI in Sri Lanka as US$1.0 billion whereas FDI in Vietnam US$10.0 billion. This reveals that the
lower construction cost is not the only cause in attracting investors. Government authorities should be able to
identify other causes while addressing the reasons related to high construction costs which can easily be handled
by the stakeholders in the industry in view of attracting more investors.
Causes for High Costs
ICTAD indices indicate the increase in construction cost in every year. Highest increase of 12.21% is reported in year
2012 whereas 2.46% in 2014 in all types of construction. A similar leap is experienced in road construction. For last
five years from 2010 reported average increase is 32.01% in all types of construction. In nutshell, sharp increase in
construction cost is evident in every year.
In year 2012, 44.95% increase in fuel cost was reported due to global high prices in fuel. Hence high transport cost
was reflected in material costs in 2012. Similarly petroleum products used in road construction showed a hike-up
in 2012. Reduction in fuel price in 2013 onwards reduced the annual increase rate in construction materials and all
types construction cost index.
Cost increase in skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled categories showed rapid increase (less than 7% annually) until
2014 and in 2015 increase is between 13% - 16% which results the salary/ wage increase in construction sector. This
may have been contributed by 2014 Budget proposals and shortage of labour for the industry by attracting them
for services sectors such as transportation as three wheeler drivers.
Consumption of cottage industry raw materials had also been increased significantly due to increased volume.
of construction activities. Supply cost of these raw materials has been severely influenced by both the market
demand and fuel prices.
The schedule below indicates the price increase during last five and half years. First band is
more imported materials basket, second is natural materials from mining and thirdly the labour.
18
% Increase from
Jan 2010
Material
% Increase from
Jan 2010
Imported Cement
Reinforcement Steel
14.11
21.27
Rubble
Metal
42.05
40.51
Structural Steel
Imported Sanitary Fittings
Electrical Wires
Wall Pains
Floor Tiles
Aluminum Doors Windows & Partitions
Bitumen 80/100 ( Drum Form)
21.48
45.28
12.84
25.48
30.14
43.06
(9.14)
Sand
Quarry Dust
Ready Mixed Concrete
Bricks
Earth
General Timber
49.39
44.73
33.13
64.85
41.49
36.54
(8.41)
15.86
30.14
Skilled Labour
Semiskilled Labour
Unskilled Labour
Labour
43.46
52.65
47.22
The above schedule is self-explanatory on the situation of price increases on imported items, natural materials and
labour. Shortage of natural materials and labour appears more severe than imposed taxes on imports from above.
With more restrictions on mining including strict environmental laws and further labour shortage in future, which
is the reality, construction cost will further increase dramatically. If taxes are further increased on construction
inputs cost will be hit from all sides and impact on investments by construction cost will be heavy..
The above price indices also indicates that cost of building sector would have been more affected than the road sector
though more often road cost increase was a hot topic. Perhaps, if this trend continues the common man would not
be able to build his own shelter which is already a huge challenge demanding for different public housing strategy.
The mining of natural materials for large commercial investments without using new materials and technology
undoubtedly make common mans own house dream shattered. On the other hand investing on new technologies
first time would make projects not feasible being a guinea-pig. This dilemma should be addressed through policies
with increased research and development in the construction industry.
Analysis of construction costs in road works and building construction reveals that the cost of elements, which
generally contributes more to project costs, became redoubled with increased cost of natural materials and labour.
As an example in roads structures and road pavement construction which need earth, sand, metal, quarry waste
etc. are more affected cost elements whereas in buildings the structure and finishes takes the shocks of costs if not
hi tech.
An in-depth study of construction costs reveals that there are more reasons behind high costs than what is envisaged
to be. Identified reasons include national policies, local regulation, macro level issues, project management / planning
& procurement, taxes on imported materials, inefficiencies in construction processes and cultural issues described
as follows;
National policies and regulations: Tax structure, demand fluctuation, interest rates and inflation has direct impacts
on construction costs. Inefficiencies in approval processes and insufficiency in services and facilities (transportation.
communication, electricity and water from national grids) accrue substantial unproductive time and resultant costs
to the process. Education, training, research, development and stimulus initiatives are appear inadequate at policy
level. Reduction in counterproductive regulations, industry peace, law and order to curb corrupt practices could
reduce costs.
Macro level issues: Unavailability of skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled labor force and lack of technical knowledge
and skills in supervisory level directly affects the construction process, quality of the output, cost and the delivery
time. Research initiatives to facilitate use of new technologies to reduce use of natural resources and for early
delivery at competitive costs would be necessary. Lack of recognition and status for workforce and the industry
itself results high human resource turnover and migrations to other industries.
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
Project Management: Wrong feasibility reports, insufficient scope definitions, feeble client requirements, Incomplete
designs, poor documentation, bias contract administration, delays in giving construction information, delays in giving
instructions and approvals, reluctance in using innovative materials or systems, reworking, poor forecasting, wrong
19
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
Procurement: Belief on traditional systems by consultants and contractors to overcome their own risks, to finalize
designs and prices during construction and to be more comfortable finally retards industry development and
efficiency. Retail project implementation ideas without using procurement strategies and employing professionals
by investors too could increase costs. This is one of the salient areas to manage and if properly manage construction
projects could be made less costly, faster in delivery and could prevent failures.
Imported materials: Taxes, incompatibility with local installations, lack of quality checking before ordering, long
deliveries, high replacing cost, unavailability of technology, warranty issues and the like could be issues.
Inefficiencies: Poor coordination in construction management, expensive modes of procurements, relying on
conventional and labour oriented construction methods, reluctance to pay for qualified personnel, excessive material
wastages, rework, poor storage, inefficient site management, unavailability, poor quality and poor performance in
construction machinery, equipment and tools. Non - productive time due to various reasons, excess site staff,
inefficient site layouts, incompetent sub contractors, monopoly in suppliers and sub contractors, inconsistency
in supplying and quality of domestic supply materials, inefficient testing and checking methods, poor cash floor
management, inaccurate and late valuations, relying on high interest bank facilities etc also adds to cost at the
end.
Cultural issues: More holidays, negative attitudes, no sense for time value of money, informality, not fully committed,
disregard own safety and health are some of the features of construction workforce.
All the above identified matters contribute directly or indirectly but impact on cost significantly. The market rates
used in project budgeting, feasibility or cost planning carry all these controllable or preventable costs. Further,
these attributes reflect gross ignorance in the function of decision making which add in turn unnecessary costs to
total construction cost.
Delays have also been identified to be one of the principal factors leading to the high cost of construction. Once
a project exceeds the period contractually and reasonably required to complete a project, there is bound to be an
effect on expenditure or income of the contractor as well as the project / investment.
Cost Management as a Professional Practice
Under the circumstances, professional practice in construction cost management becomes an utmost important
requirement. Quantity Surveying professionals in the practice involve with this commercial management of projects
through various mechanisms such as feasibility inputs, procurement management strategies, cost planning, cost
reporting, cost monitoring, project management inputs and cost controlling during pre and post contract stages of
projects. Quantity Surveyors also provide knowledge inputs for value management, life cycle costing and whole life
costs, earned value concept, lean concept, green concept and most predominantly proper contract documentation.
This involvement always assists and guides investors in establishing holistic budgets and finalizing contracts
covering the supply chain. It should be noted that all the early estimates are based on prevailing market rates in
which it include all controllable and uncontrollable attributes inherited in construction processes which means
cost of managing construction process by the contractors is also included in the construction cost.
Cost management is therefore a form of management accounting over project economics and technicalities that
allow a construction business to predict impending expenditures to help reduce the chance of going over budget.
Many businesses employ cost management plans for specific projects, as well as for the over-all business model.
When applying it to a project, expected costs are calculated while the project is still in the planning period and are
approved beforehand. During the project, all expenses are recorded and monitored to make sure they stay in line
with the cost management plan. After the project is finished, the predicted costs and actual costs can be compared
and analyzed, as a feedback for future projects.
Impact and Corrective Measures
When considering the investments such as health, education, leisure, hospitality, manufacturing, warehouses etc,
construction cost represents major part of total investment. In investors point of view high construction cost
in such investments could be a negative or demotivating aspect in terms of pay-back period or internal rate of
return.
Such demotivating atmosphere leads investors in seeking different alternatives. Facilitate investors with efficient and
economical construction sector even with concessions beyond import duty waiver would be the better alternative
securing investment for healthy economy and demand for construction.
20
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
The College of Quantity Surveying (CQS) is the only Quantity Surveying educational institute placed directly under
the Institute of Quantity Surveyors Sri Lanka (IQSSL). The IQSSL is only the professional institute in Quantity
Surveying established by an Act of Parliament titled - Institute of Quantity Surveyors Sri Lanka (Incorporation) Act,
No. 20 of 2007.
As expressly described in the Act, one primary objective of the IQSSSL is to disseminate and impart knowledge on
Quantity Surveying (QS) and related subjects through educational programmes.
To achieve this objective, in 2005 the IQSSL established the College of Quantity Surveying.The CQS is dedicated
to provide high standard education to different categories of students in Sri Lanka who are interested in Quantity
Surveying education and practice. With increasing popularity, the CQS is educating and guiding apprentice Quantity
Surveyors in the industry and school leavers for professional practice in Quantity Surveying. As per the feed-back
from the industry, they have been very successful in catering for both local and foreign construction industries.
The CQS has already developed several courses of study delivered in English medium. The ultimate goal is to elevate
them to the Chartered Quantity Surveyor status after following Professional Level programmes and/or the Degree
programme, B.Sc.(QS) from year 2017.
Study Programmes Conducted by College of Quantity Surveying
The following study programmes are conducted at the College of Quantity Surveying.
1. Higher National Diploma In Quantity Surveying HND(QS)
2. Professional Level Programme
a. Professional Level 1
b. Professional Level 2
c. Professional Level 3
3. Preparatory lecture series for APC candidates, popularly called the Charter Classes for candidates who are
sitting APCs
4. B.Sc.(QS) from year 2017
In addition to classroom lectures, the CQS organizes induction programmes, refresher courses, CPDs, seminars,
study groups, guest lectures and group discussions etc. with the view of updating and facilitating the learning
process of Quantity Surveyors.
Programme Management
1.
Board of Management of College of Quantity Surveying (BOM) of the IQSSL is directly responsible for administration
of CQS. Higher National Diploma in Quantity Surveying programme is offered and managed by the CQS.
Professional Level 1,2,3 Exams and preparatory lecture series for APC candidates, popularly called the Charter Classes
are conducted by the Board of Quantity Surveying Education and Training (BQSET) of IQSSL. The administration and
management of Professional L1, L2, programmes L3 and APC Classes are conducted by the BOM of the IQSSL.
Higher National Diploma (HND (QS) in Quantity Surveying
This two and half year programme has been specifically designed and launched in January 2013, for the benefit of
school leavers who wish to join the Quantity Surveying profession. On completion of this study programme and
with approved employment by IQSSL, the students have two optional paths.
1. To follow professional Level 1, 2, and 3 and become a Technical Member of the IQSSL, or;
2. To continue with the B.Sc.(QS) for two years. (This path will be open for students from year 2017)
22
Ch.QS Anuradha S. Waidayasekara B.Sc. (QS) (Hons), M.Sc.(Civil Eng.), A.I.Q.S.SL, A.AIQS
Mr. Mahesh Abeynayake LL.B (Hons), LL.M (Colombo), Attorney-at-Law & Notary Public
Ch.QS. Nishantha Wickramasinghe B Sc (QS) Hons, M Sc (Pro. Mgt.), F.I.Q.S.SL
Ch.QS. Anoma Gunasekera B Sc (QS) Hons, PG Dip (CPM), F.I.Q.S.SL
Mr. Sarath Dissanayake B Sc (Civil Eng), M Sc (PM), AMICE (SL)
23
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
A
n
n
u
a
l
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
2
0
1
5
COLLEGE OF QUANTITY SURVEYING
No. 108, Nawala Road,
Narahenpita, Colombo 05.
Tel: 0115 659959 / 0112 369798
Email: iqssl.college@yahoo.com
24
25
CPD Diary
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions are a part of professional career enabling the
participants to share knowledge and experience thus demystifying any grey areas. IQSSL disseminates information
regarding the CPD sessions well in advance. IQSSL has a plan of interactive CPD sessions to be conducted by industry
personnel, representing different disciplines, on the topics of timely significance.
CPD No
Topic
Resource Persons
Review of CESMMSL
27
Membership Subscription
Dear Members
If you havent paid the subscription yet, please make arrangement to pay as soon as possible.
Our established payment methods are as follows;
1.
Direct Deposits
Account Name
: INSTITUTE OF QUANTITY SURVEYORS SRI LANKA.
Bank Name & Branch : Commercial Bank Borella.
Bank A/C No.
: 1208409001
2.
Bank Draft / TT
Account Name
: INSTITUTE OF QUANTITY SURVEYORS SRI LANKA.
Swift Code
: CCEYLKLX
Bank Address
: Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC.
# 21, Bristol Street Colombo -01.
Sri Lanka.
3.
Credit Card
: At the IQSSL Office or by filling the detachable slip below, Visa and Master card only
4.
Cash
Please send the original bank deposited slip to the Institute by registered post in order to update our records. If you have any
further queries, please do not hesitate to contact Ms Hansani on +94112595570 or e mail iqssl@sltnet.lk
With well wishes,
Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Sri Lanka
Hony, Treasurer
VISA
MASTER
Cheque # _______________
Expiry Date
SLR
yyyy
US S
CONTACT DETAILS
Telephone:
1.
mm
2.
Email Address:
I hereby authorize the use of my credit card to debit the amount mentioned above:
______________________________
CARD HOLDERs SIGNATURE
_______________
DATE
Change of Address:
Mail to: INSTITUTE OF QUANTITY SURVEYORS SRI
LANKA
The Professional Centre,
2nd Floor, No.275/75, Prof. Stanley Wijesundara Mawatha
Colombo 07.
E-mail : Scan the form and e-mail to: iqssl@sltnet.lk
* Note: CVV #, is the three (03) digits, printed on back of the Credit
28