Shaping the future of quantity surveying: A conversation with Dr. Eugene Seah, RICS SEA Board Chair

Dr. Eugene Seah FRICS has been a leader in the field of quantity surveying and construction for over 25 years. As the RICS Southeast Asia Board Chair and CEO of DLS Consultancy Pte Ltd, he continues to influence industry standards and mentor the next generation of professionals. In this profile Dr. Seah shares his insights on leadership, innovation, and the evolving role of quantity surveyors in today’s fast-changing built environment.

The evolution of quantity surveying: Embracing technology and change

Throughout his career, Dr. Seah has witnessed transformative changes in the industry, particularly with the integration of technology, sustainability, and new procurement methods. He recalls the shift from traditional manual processes to the adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and computational tools, which have significantly enhanced efficiency and accuracy in measurement and cost estimation. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) is even playing a role in contract interpretation, further revolutionising the profession.

Recognising these trends early in his career, Dr. Seah strategically aligned his professional development with digital advancements, furthering his studies and research in digital transformation. His proactive approach underscores the importance of staying ahead of industry disruptions, a philosophy he continues to instil in future professionals.

Technology and innovation: Reshaping the industry

The construction industry is undergoing a technological revolution, with AI, smart buildings, and automation redefining traditional practices. Dr. Seah highlights the profound impact of these advancements, particularly in automating routine tasks such as contract analysis and project management. He emphasises the need for professionals to embrace a multidisciplinary mindset—what he terms “3D thinking”—to effectively integrate cost management and strategic advice with emerging digital tools.

For quantity surveyors looking to stay competitive, Dr. Seah advises a strategic and existential approach to technology adoption. Rather than acquiring software without clear objectives, professionals should start by identifying key challenges and assessing the cost-benefit of digital solutions. He stresses that quantity surveying is no longer limited to cost estimation; instead, it requires a comprehensive, cross-disciplinary perspective to provide value-added services to clients.

Sustainability and the role of quantity surveyors

Sustainability has become a cornerstone of the built environment, and quantity surveyors play a crucial role in supporting green initiatives. Dr. Seah underscores the importance of understanding cost drivers related to sustainable design elements, such as energy-efficient materials and thermal performance. By equipping themselves with knowledge of sustainability frameworks and assessment tools, quantity surveyors can contribute to meaningful design solutions rather than merely cost-cutting measures.

Looking ahead, he predicts that smart buildings and sustainability will become increasingly interconnected. This will require professionals to bridge gaps between cost estimation, digital technology, and environmental impact assessments. The ability to quantify embodied carbon, conduct whole-life cost analyses, and evaluate smart building investments will be essential in shaping the future of the industry.

Leadership and industry recognition

As a senior surveying professional Dr. Seah emphasises the importance of coaching and mentorship. He believes that modern leadership is about guiding and training individuals, particularly in an era where younger generations, such as Gen Z, seek engagement and meaningful development in the workplace. His leadership philosophy revolves around agility and facilitation, ensuring that teams remain adaptable and equipped for the complexities of today’s construction landscape.

Among his numerous accolades, two awards stand out—the RICS Professional of the Year Award, which recognises excellence in Singapore and Southeast Asia, and the International Cost Engineering Council (ICEC) Distinguished International Fellow Award, which acknowledges contributions on a global scale. These achievements not only validate his impact but also serve as an inspiration for aspiring professionals in the industry.

Advancing RICS and the built environment in Southeast Asia

As the RICS Southeast Asia Board Chair, Dr. Seah has been actively involved in raising accreditation standards for various disciplines, including valuation and quantity surveying. He has championed initiatives for the RICS Whole Life Carbon Assessment (WLCA) a method for measuring carbon emissions of buildings and infrastructure projects throughout their entire lifespan. Some of these initiatives include engaging with government procurement agencies and think tanks to promote best practices in the industry.

Dr. Seah envisions RICS as a leading source of knowledge and expertise, offering valuable insights on topics ranging from smart cities to procurement strategies. By fostering collaboration with local institutes and continuously driving research in emerging areas, RICS can support professionals in keeping pace with Southeast Asia’s rapidly evolving market.

Guidance for future leaders in quantity surveying

Reflecting on his career, Dr. Seah emphasises resilience, passion, and continuous learning as key attributes for success. He encourages young professionals to embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and remain adaptable in an ever-changing industry. His personal journey, including completing his thesis at 48 years old after multiple attempts, serves as a testament to lifelong learning and perseverance.

For the next generation of quantity surveyors, he highlights the importance of patience, interdisciplinary knowledge, and a collaborative mindset. Understanding architectural, structural, and mechanical-electrical systems will enable professionals to provide comprehensive solutions and enhance their value in the industry.

Looking ahead: Future contributions to the industry

As Dr. Seah transitions to the next phase of his career, his focus is on mentoring the next generation within his firm and expanding his contributions to other professional institutions in the industry. His commitment to advancing industry standards and fostering collaboration remains steadfast, with a vision to position RICS as a key driver of knowledge-sharing and best practices across Southeast Asia.

Through his leadership, advocacy, and dedication to innovation, Dr. Eugene Seah continues to shape the future of quantity surveying and construction. His journey serves as an inspiration to industry professionals, reinforcing the importance of embracing change, lifelong learning, and a commitment to excellence.