Adequacy of Document Management Systems for Postcontract Quantity Surveying Roles: A Qualitative Delphi Study

This study aimed to assess the adaptability of document management systems, particularly for postcontract quantity surveying roles. It seeks to investigate whether the document and records management requirements of quantity surveyors are fulfilled by the prevailing document management systems in construction organizations. The research adopted an interpretivism stance to collect and analyze data. Two Delphi rounds of 17 semistructured interviews were conducted, with experts selected through purposive sampling. Collected empirical data was analyzed with the use of manual content analysis. This study highlights the key roles of postcontract quantity surveyors and their document management requirements. It finds that while many ISO 9001:2015 elements meet the documentation requirements of quantity surveyors, some fall short. However, postcontract quantity surveyors can enhance their document management systems to ensure full compliance. The research underscores the importance of accurate documentation for improving efficiency and effectiveness in construction organizations. Additionally, these insights can guide future ISO revisions, ensuring comprehensive coverage of documentation requirements of quantity surveyors and fostering better performance and quality in construction projects. While several research studies have investigated documents and records to be produced and managed by quantity surveyors, the novel contribution of this lies in its exploration of the importance of documentation to the role of the postcontract quantity surveyor in relating the elements of ISO 9001:2015 standards. Therefore, the findings of this study serve as precious steerage for quantity surveyors and other building professionals to have an in-depth understanding of a proper document management system.