Publications
Tumelo Sewedi
5th Jul, 2024
The role of a Candidate Quantity Surveyor is crucial in both public and private sectors, contributing to the successful delivery of construction projects and financial health of the organisation. However, the contradictory contexts of these sectors significantly impact the experiences and career trajectories of individuals in this profession. This blog delves into the contrasting experiences of Candidate Quantity Surveyors (CanQS) in the public and private sectors, exploring the delicate dynamics that shape their professional journey. Through an in-depth examination of work environments, client interactions, regulatory frameworks, career progression, and job security, the blog uncovers the multifaceted challenges and opportunities encountered in each sector.
Public Sector:
Being a CanQS in the public sector involves working on projects funded and managed by government entities (Department of Public Works and Roads/ Infrastructure and Department of Water and Sanitation, Department of Infrastructure Development etc.) at various levels such as local/municipal, regional/provincial, and national government. The public sector encompasses a wide range of projects, which include public buildings like schools, hospitals, libraries, rehabilitations centres, etc. and roads infrastructure (National roads, Local roads, bridges, etc.).
CanQS in the public sector often enjoy several benefits as far as the working environment is concerned. The benefits include job security, stability, generous vacation time, educational assistance (bursaries – provided that the choice of study is in line with the current position occupied), union representation, training and development (Public sector employers often invest in training and professional development opportunities to enhance employees' skills and career growth) such as a “Secondment” to any public or private entity as stated in regulation 62, Chapter 4, Part 4 “Appointments and Employment matters” of the Public Service and Administration Act of 1994. As part of the training and development programme, a Secondment offers a valuable opportunity for a CanQSs in the public sector to temporarily work in private firms. During this period, the private company provides training, mentorship, and guidance tailored to help the CanQS meet the registration requirements within the prescribed time frame
However, the challenges have a significant impact as far as career development and salary progression is concerned. Being a CanQS in the public sector involves navigating through layers of bureaucracy and subject to regulatory framework and bidding processes, which can slow down decision-making processes and significantly delay project progress.
This whole process leading up to the MTEF (Budget Preparation) easily known as feasibilities can take up to 3 years wherein the CanQS is usually involved at certain parts of the IPIP stage where the development of procurement strategies (deciding on Pricing and Form of contract) is executed.
2. Bidding Processes: Projects typically require a competitive bidding process to select service providers (consultants and contractors) which spans through a procurement committee comprising of:
Navigating these regulations and bidding processes can be time-consuming and complex, requiring extensive paperwork and documentation to ensure compliance. Additionally, the criteria for selecting the winning bid may not always prioritize factors like quality and innovation, leading to dissatisfactions for construction professionals. In most cases approval can even involve navigating political considerations and public hearings. These delays drastically impact project timelines and increase costs. A very common example of these delays is progression from stage 1 to stage 2 can take up to two years moreover, projects often come to a standstill halfway through the construction stage.
Another major challenge the public sector is faced with is contractual issues. Construction contracts are often outdated. Managing these contractual obligations is challenging especially due to the little security offered to the indemnification of their registered personnel.
Additionally, Public service projects often prioritize community benefits and job creation over financial return on investment (ROI). Unlike private sector initiatives driven by profit. The absence of financial feasibility studies results to insufficient exposure to the CanQS aiming to register as a Professional.
Navigating these bureaucratic hurdles requires patience which is what the CanQS aspiring to register may not have, progression to being a registered professional is hindered in this manner.
Private Sector:
The private sector is typically more performance-driven, with a focus on achieving business goals and maximising profitability by ensuring that projects (investments) yield significant ROI and contribute to the bottom line. The projects operate in a competitive market environment, where success is often measured by market share and financial performance. The private sector QS business depend mainly on reputation which is based on past project successes, client satisfaction, and industry recognition. Positive references and case studies demonstrating successful project outcomes can significantly influence clients' decisions.
Some of the benefits of being a CanQS in the private sector include little to no bureaucracy. Decision-making processes are quicker, which allows for faster implementation of ideas and projects. As a CanQS, you get to have experience that is precisely aligned with the outcomes of the South African Council of the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP) and gain insight to multiple fast-paced projects running concurrently including feasibility studies which is very rare to acquire but also very important for a CanQS aiming to register. This means that the experience that one gains over 6 years in the public sector, you can easily acquire in less than 2 years in the private sector.
When it comes to compensation potential, while salaries can vary widely, the private sector often offers higher earning potential through bonuses, stock options, and other incentives. However, CanQS often face challenges such as the salary package in terms of cost to company, which may lack benefits like medical aid and a pension fund, as well as little vacation time thereby impacting work-life balance.
As a CanQS in the private sector, you develop a lot more than technical skills, you grow adapt and continuously learn by keeping up with industry trends, technological advancements, and evolving client needs. CanQS who develop their careers in the private sector environment are typically well-prepared and positioned to achieve registration quickly. They are more likely to excel and succeed in their Accreditation of Professional Competence (APC) with the SACQSP on their first attempt.
By bridging public and private sectors through secondment, CanQS benefit from exposure to specialized skills and practices that complement their public service roles. This collaborative approach not only enhances individual career development but also strengthens the overall capacity and effectiveness of public sector professionals in meeting industry standards and achieving their professional goals. Secondment programs facilitate a mutual relationship between public sector employment and private sector expertise, ultimately supporting the CanQS in meeting registration requirements and advancing their careers effectively.
In conclusion, in December 2020, the Minister for the Public Service and Administration, Mr Senzo Mchunu, approved the publication of the draft “National Implementation Framework towards the Professionalisation of the Public Sector” https://www.thensg.gov.za/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/NATIONAL-FRAMEWORK-BOOKLET.pdf which presents a significant opportunity to address exploitation and improve governance ultimately benefiting the entire country. The framework could potentially bring about positive change by:
The successful implementation of the bill will lead to significant positive changes in the public sector operations and overall socio-economic development of the country.
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