Dear ASAQS Members,

As 2024 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on our achievements and share the exciting plans we have for 2025. It has been an immense honour to serve as your President since my election in July, and I am deeply proud of the progress we’ve made as an association.

This year, I had the privilege of leading a newly appointed board that brings together fresh perspectives and invaluable experience. Together, we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure the continued growth and success of the ASAQS, and I am truly grateful for the collective effort of everyone involved.

Our strategic collaborations have been central to strengthening the ASAQS’s position as a leader in the industry. A standout moment was our hosting of the AAQS Council Meeting in July, which included a mini-conference focused on collaborative solutions with government sector stakeholders. The insights gained from these discussions have begun to shape through on-going solution-oriented engagements with key industry stakeholders. Additionally, our ongoing international engagements have bolstered the ASAQS’s global presence, notably, the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with international associations. This has reinforced our standing as a global trailblazer, fostering cross-pollination of ideas and innovative solutions that will benefit our profession.

Looking ahead to 2025, we remain committed to executing the strategy we have laid out over the past two years. Our focus will continue to be on initiatives that add value to our members and the profession at large, with a particular emphasis on strengthening collaborations across the sector and addressing the challenges facing our industry.

With the aforementioned, I therefore encourage all members to become more involved in these initiatives by volunteering to serve on board committees and / or engage in chapter activities, as your insights and contributions are crucial to the continued accomplishment of our key strategic objectives (KSOs). For more information on our KSOs and how you can provide your input, please visit our website.

A critical part of our strategy is the implementation of our succession plan to ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of the ASAQS.

We are excited to announce that 2025 will begin with the appointment of a new Executive Director in January, of which the official communication and relevant details will be shared with our members in due time, when the new incumbent takes office.  This also includes a planned handover period between our current Executive Director, Karl Trusler, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity that best supports the needs of the association, minimising any risks of disruption.

On behalf of our members, board and industry partners, I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Karl Trusler, whose unwavering dedication and leadership have been invaluable to the growth and success of the organisation. While Karl will transition out of his current role, he will remain involved behind the scenes, to continue to support the association’s future success as part of the succession plan.

We are excited about the opportunities that 2025 holds and look forward to building on the solid foundation we have established. Together, we will continue to shape the future of our profession and advance the mission of the ASAQS.

As the festive season approaches, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to all of you, including the board and dedicated staff—whose unwavering support has driven us forward. I look forward to another successful year of collaboration and progress.

On behalf of the ASAQS, I wish you all a joyous and peaceful festive season, and I eagerly anticipate the dynamic new year ahead, where we will continue to work together to shape the future of our industry.

Warm regards,
Mosha Senyolo
President, ASAQS

Pro-Serve Consulting Triumphs at the 17th Annual South African Construction Awards

The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) extends its congratulations to Pro-Serve Consulting for their outstanding success at the 17th Annual South African Construction Awards (SACA), held on 27 November 2024. Widely regarded as the "Oscars of the construction industry," the prestigious event celebrates excellence and innovation within the built environment.

Pro-Serve Consulting achieved an incredible milestone, being honoured with two highly coveted awards: Construction Project Management Company of the Year and Quantity Surveying Firm of the Year. These accolades stand as a testament to Pro-Serve’s commitment to delivering high-quality, timely, and cost-effective infrastructure solutions.

Leading Excellence in the Built Environment

For more than 15 years, Pro-Serve Consulting has been at the forefront of the construction consultancy sector, offering integrated services such as construction project management, quantity surveying, construction management, and transactional advisory. These awards further cement Pro-Serve’s reputation as a leader in the field, known for their innovative solutions and consistent delivery of excellence.

Mr Lunghile Mbhokota, Chief Operating Officer of Pro-Serve Consulting, reflected on the significance of this recognition, stating:
“We are incredibly proud to have received these awards, which reflect the collective hard work and dedication of our entire team. At Pro-Serve, our focus goes beyond building infrastructure; we are committed to building communities, fostering future leaders, and driving innovation within the built environment.”

A Commitment to Innovation and Mentorship

Pro-Serve has set itself apart as one of the few consultancy firms in South Africa to fully adopt Building Information Modelling (BIM), a cutting-edge operational tool that enhances efficiency and effectiveness in project delivery. Beyond technological innovation, the company is deeply committed to mentorship, exemplified by their establishment of the Pro-Serve Leadership Academy, which equips young professionals with essential leadership and technical skills.

Mbhokota added:
“Our core values are reflected in everything we do, from how we approach projects to how we invest in developing the next generation of professionals. These awards are not just an endorsement of our past successes but an encouragement for our ongoing efforts.”

Recognition of Hard Work and Dedication

Pro-Serve’s award-winning projects span multiple sectors, including education, healthcare, aviation, and marine engineering. Their portfolio includes significant achievements such as the pre-feasibility study for the South African Navy relocation, development management services in Botswana, and the internationally acclaimed BMW for upgrades of the Circuit de Miramas in France.

“These awards recognise the trust our clients place in us and the shared vision we hold with our partners,” said Mbhokota. “We are immensely grateful for their support and remain committed to delivering excellence on every project.”

Looking Towards the Future

Pro-Serve’s ambitions extend far beyond South Africa, with exciting plans to expand into the Middle East and Europe. By 2025, their subsidiary, Proserve Consulting Europe, will establish a presence in the Netherlands, marking a significant step forward in their international growth. Mr Thabang Mbembele, Chief Executive Officer of Pro-Serve Consulting cemented their commitment to growing internationally, stating” Pro-Serve’s vision is to be a world-class construction consultancy that delivers exclusive service in a sustainable and socially impactful manner – on time, quality assured and within budget. The awards provide testimony of our ambitions to be a global construction consultancy leader. We are excited about 2025 as we look forward to doing work in the United Arab Emirates in countries such as Oman and Saudi Arabia. 2025 also mark a new beginning where through our subsidiary company, Pro-serve Consulting Europe, we will be expanding our footprint into Europe with an intention to open our European offices.”

ASAQS celebrates this incredible achievement and commends Pro-Serve Consulting for their dedication to advancing the construction industry. Congratulations to Mr Lunghile Mbhokota and the entire Pro-Serve team for this well-deserved recognition!

In Gauteng we are confronted with a water crises. The industrial hub of South Africa is running dry - fast! That is while our politicians spin flights of fancy to the electorate and fight over who will be the next mayor of a crumbling metropolis.

In our suburb, fresh drinking water has been gushing from broken municipal pipes for months, and roads are eroded causing dangerous potholes.

The Vaal Dam's drop in level is partly due to low inflows from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel closure for planned maintenance work. The dam level dropped to 27.2% since the report pictured on the left appeared on the 4th December 2024.

Tunnels are the arteries that provide life blood to communities over several millennia.

Tunnels of hope and the fulfilment of that hope is what kept the Roman Empire going for almost a thousand years. The Romans are known for their engineering prowess, their tunnels and aqueducts, their monumental buildings. History also agrees that, corruption, the division of the empire, and invasion by other tribes were the three main causes of the fall of Rome.

The ancient Greek civilisation also lasted for about 1,200 years (800 B.C.E. to about the 5th Century C.E.). What is not known is that they were master mathematicians who used that skill to built the first tunnel over a kilometre long by excavating simultaneously from both sides!   

Maybe our politicians will learn from history, and learn why the Tunnel of Eupolinos brought hope to a rugged island  in the Aegan sea.

The story begins.

Deep within the rugged terrain of Samos, an island in the Aegean Sea, lies one of the most remarkable engineering feats of the ancient world: the Tunnel of Eupalinos. This incredible structure, known as the Eupalinos Tunnel or the Eupalinian aqueduct, remains a testament to the ingenuity and skill of ancient Greek engineers.

In the 6th century BCE, the thriving city of Samos faced a critical challenge. To sustain its growing population, the city needed a reliable source of fresh water. Tyrant Polycrates, who ruled Samos at the time, sought to solve this problem by commissioning the construction of a subterranean aqueduct. The task was entrusted to Eupalinos of Megara, a master engineer.

Eupalinos envisioned a bold and ambitious project: to bore a tunnel through Mount Kastro, a steep and formidable obstacle. The tunnel would carry water from the abundant springs on one side of the mountain to the city on the other. However, the true marvel of this project was not merely its concept but the method Eupalinos employed to bring it to life.

The construction began simultaneously from both ends of the mountain. Eupalinos and his team of workers used only basic tools like chisels, hammers, and simple surveying instruments. They faced the daunting task of maintaining the correct alignment and gradient over a distance of more than a kilometre, all while working underground with no modern equipment.

Day by day, the workers chipped away at the hard limestone, inching closer to their counterparts on the opposite side. The tunnel was meticulously measured and excavated, with shafts and galleries created to manage the flow of water and ensure stability. The challenge of maintaining a straight line and accurate gradient required exceptional precision and skill.

After several years of tireless labour, the two teams finally met in the middle with remarkable accuracy. The alignment of the tunnel was so precise that it remains a point of wonder to this day. The Tunnel of Eupalinos, measuring 1,036 meters in length, successfully brought fresh water to the city of Samos, providing a crucial lifeline for its inhabitants.

The tunnel's design included a central channel for the water flow, flanked by two parallel walkways for maintenance and inspection. This ingenious structure allowed for easy access and ensured the uninterrupted supply of water.

The Tunnel of Eupalinos stands as a testament to the ingenuity, determination, and engineering prowess of the ancient Greeks. It remains an enduring symbol of human ingenuity, reminding us that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, the human spirit can achieve extraordinary feats.

Today, the tunnel is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at this ancient wonder. It serves as a reminder of the timeless power of innovation and the enduring legacy of those who dared to dream and build.

And so, the Tunnel of Eupalinos continues to inspire, a silent testament to the brilliance and resilience of the human mind, echoing through the ages.

A tunnel of hope that a better future awaits us.

Postscript: Remember our article on South Africa's greatest man-made mystery? Among these circles we are often confronted with the use of equinoxes. In this video you will see how that knowledge may have been used to construct the Tunnel of Eupalinos.

Compiled by Bert van den Heever

Disclaimer: This article is the personal opinion/view of the author(s) and is not necessarily that of the ASAQS

Guided by our theme, “Credibility – Recognised, Respected, and Rewarded,” we’ve achieved incredible milestones that reflect the strength and resilience of our profession during 2024.

Our ASAQS 2024 Overview captures all the highlights, including:

- Messages from our leadership reflecting on the year’s successes.

- Updates on CPD programs helping members stay ahead in the industry.

- Inspiring stories from our chapters across South Africa.

- Key moments in advocacy and stakeholder engagement.

This document is a celebration of the progress we’ve made together and a roadmap for the exciting opportunities ahead.

View the ASAQS 2024 Overview

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s continue building on this year’s success and driving our profession forward.

*This article was originally posted on Nelson Mandela University's website.

The event attracted members from leading local practices such as BTKM, Synergy, Rodger & Reddan, and Abamiseli QS, along with QS professionals working in contracting, development, and municipal roles. The evening’s festivities began with a spirited skittles tournament featuring 40 enthusiastic participants over four competitive rounds. Trevor Kay emerged victorious, claiming first prize, while Markus Burri humorously earned the title of "King of the Gutter Ball," adding a lighthearted note to the competition.

Words of Welcome and Encouragement

The evening’s formal proceedings were opened by Janita Stroebel, ASAQS EC Chapter Chair, who delivered a comprehensive overview of the chapter’s activities and shared updates from the ASAQS Board. Janita encouraged members to stay actively engaged with the EC committee and contribute their ideas to shape future initiatives. She also welcomed Ms. Candice du Preez, who was recently co-opted onto the committee, as a new team member.

Inspiring Guest Speakers

Two esteemed guest speakers brought valuable insights and inspiration to the attendees:

Mr. Johann Cronje, Senior Infrastructure Programme Manager and Chief Architect at the Eastern Cape Department of Health, shared his expertise in addressing the challenges of resolving infrastructure backlogs amidst budget constraints. Johann emphasized the importance of achieving value for money in government projects and highlighted the critical role quantity surveyors play in ensuring efficient project delivery.

Mr. Retief Odendaal, South African politician and former Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay, motivated attendees to become active participants in their community. Drawing from his experience in local governance, Retief emphasized the significance of accountability in public administration and shared how he successfully integrated QS expertise into supply chain management during his tenure. Retief also expressed his enduring passion for Nelson Mandela Bay and his hopes for the city's future.

Engaging Activities and Camaraderie

The event continued with an interactive Q&A session, masterfully hosted by ASAQS EC Vice-Chairperson Mr. Siya Loni of Abamiseli Quantity Surveyors. Members seized the opportunity to engage with the guest speakers, exploring solutions to pressing industry and community challenges.

A creative team-building activity followed, challenging attendees to construct towers using spaghetti and marshmallows. Judged on innovation, aesthetics, and structural stability by Dr. Gerrit Crafford and Mr. Leon de Jager, the Rodger & Reddan team claimed victory with their ingenious design.

Networking and Festivities

The night concluded with a delicious braai, complemented by product presentations from sponsors Corobrik, Polyflor, and U-Tile. A much-anticipated lucky draw added excitement, with prizes leaving many attendees smiling.

The ASAQS EC Chapter extends heartfelt thanks to all members, sponsors, and guest speakers who contributed to the success of the event. As the year draws to a close, the chapter looks forward to continuing its mission of fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence in the QS profession.

Patrick and Annie use Starlink to keep in touch with their office, clients and friends. They shared the image to the left on WhatsApp with me. That is the Internet speed they achieved on the open sea!

I wish my fibre was that fast...

Saint Helena has a long and checkered history with roots in South Africa as well as in Holland, Britain and France. It is one of the most remote major islands in the world and the executive authority in Saint Helena is vested in King Charles III, and is exercised on his behalf by the Governor of Saint Helena. The Governor is appointed by the King on the advice of the British government.

Defence and foreign affairs remain the responsibility of the United Kingdom.

The island is famous for Napoleon's exile on Saint Helena (1815) after capture by the British. The prisoner was guarded by a garrison of 2,100 soldiers while a squadron of 10 ships continuously patrolled the waters to prevent escape.

Dinuzulu kaCetshwayo was the king of the Zulu nation from 20 May 1884 until his death in 1913. In 1884 a group of Boer farmers from the districts of Utrecht and Vryheid under General Louis Botha, formed Dinuzulu's Volunteers and undertook to help secure his throne. In 1890 Dinuzulu was captured by the British and exiled to the island of Saint Helena for seven years, for leading a Zulu army against the British due to annexation of the coastal plains of Zululand.

Piet Cronjë, a Boer general during the Anglo-Boer War,surrendered on 27 February 1900, and he and his wife, Hester, were sent to a prison-of-war camp on Saint Helena,

And to end this trip to Saint Helena, we return to the Eastern Cape, Grant Hechter and Synergy Property Solutions a member of the ASAQS who were involved in building the airport in Saint Helena.

In an article in the Engineering News in 2016, Grant was quoted as saying that SA Quantity Surveyors should look to Africa for new projects. But that comes with the ability to adapt:

He says that the: “Availability of labour, procurement of supplies, shipping, duties, customs clearance, currency fluctuations, accommodation and general transport are issues that have a major impact on the overall building costs, which we don’t have to consider as much when working in South Africa,”

Patrick, Annie, Grant and so much of our South African tribe are proof that Quantity Surveyors can adapt on land and sea, and whatever history throws at them!

The illustration at left emphasise these circular stone structures found in Southern Africa and others in South America.

In October I fished at Verlorenkloof with my two cousins and a friend. One evening we started speculating about the hundreds, if not thousands of stone circles that dot the landscape in Mpumalanga. Large circular stacked stone walls with smaller circles inside. Circles without an entrance. Kilometers of "roads" or "channels" that link one stone circle with another, without entrance or exit.

What inspires humans to move millions of stones to create a mystery?

Arther C. Clarke said: "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."

During our stay at Verlorenkloof I showed my cousins the structures that baffles my QS brain.

Along a tributary of the Crocodile River is a huge stone wall built along the river bank. The image to the left shows my cousins next to the 2m high wall built on the embankment, on the other side the wall is less than a meter high with adjoining walls forming a door-less oblong.

You will note that the walls are very sturdy with two rows of boulder walls filled in with pebbles and earth. The walls at Verlorenkloof are unique as they form rectangular or oblong shapes void of entrances or doorways. Adjoining these "rooms" are retaining walls that form terraces and most probably were used for planting crops. But these rectangular shapes would puzzle most of us in the built environment. If these shapes were used for animals they needed a bridge to enter and exit. And why build the furthest wall on a steep embankment near to the stream? Why form terraces on the mountainside when there is more fertile soil adjoining the river below?

Just imagine an ancient architect asking you, a project manager and engineer to help construct his "dream" projects. You look at his plans and observe that there are no doorways. The engineer looks at a walled roadway and observes that even if we had wheels the roads are to narrow for two carts to pass. The project manager thinks of the duration and the millions of tons of stone to be moved. The QS asks; "Who is going to pay for this?"

The architect shrugs; "We will find a client."

The PM chimes in; "And what will you tell him? That it will take decades if not centuries to construct, and for what purpose? An African Stonehenge?"

A project that even the Construction Mafia will not claim their 30%!

There is evidence that these structures are normally found near to gold bearing waters and that the structures may be linked to an unknown technology to extract gold from the streams leading to-,and from the Crocodile River.

In the Sappi booklet on Forestry's Human Legacy they highlight that the interpretation given by Dr Cyril Hromnik, an expert in Dravidian culture, suggests the stone-walled ruins are Afro-Indian Temples, similar to those found in Madagascar and the East-African seaboard.

Hromnik believes that these are the ruins of temples built before the time of Christ by Indian sea traders known as Komates, a name is still present in the Lowveld in the form of Komati Gorge, Komati River, Komatipoort. (See ruins of the Dying Sun Chariot temple at Doornkop where I fished earlier this year)

The Sappi booklet also explains that :... "the simplest and most widely accepted explanation is that these are the ancient homesteads and cattle kraals of the Bakoni people. The Bakoni – or Koni (a name given by Sotho speakers to those they considered to be Nguni speaking invaders) – arrived in northern Mpumalanga from a number of different areas in the early 17th century. "

Whether they are cattle kraals or testament to an unknown technology, farmers and other people in Mpumalanga have used stone from these heritage sites to build kraals or homesteads! We have to heighten the awareness of their existence and protect them for the future when we have a better understanding of our past.

If you are heading towards Bambi on the R36 you will pass the Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins less than 400m from the main road.

The top circle is about 50m in diameter with a 5m almost adjoining circle to the north. The greater circle is subdivided with mostly circular walls with openings leading to demarcated areas.

During the Anglo-Boer war, the Battle of Helvetia actually took place on the lower stone circle and there is a Boer graveyard slightly up the R36 to the right.

The image at the left shows the highest wall of the circle. My cousin is looking at a hole we presume was blasted through the wall during the Battle of Helvetia.

Peta Hardy, Sappi's Area Environmental Manager Mpumalanga, concludes the booklet with these thoughts; “There is no doubt that the stonewalled structures dotted around the Mpumalanga Escarpment are remnants of a past history that need further investigation. For many years, this period of our history was not the focus of academic research and we are grateful that some light is now being shed on the origins of these structures.

Whatever your interpretation is of these ruins, the important thing is that examples of value to history are identified and managed within the plantation landscape to ensure their conservation. Sappi have recognised the importance of heritage and retaining what can still be conserved. A heritage database has been compiled for each plantation, capturing what is known from past records and from what is unearthed during the normal lifecycle of planting and harvesting compartments."

Compiled by Bert van den Heever

In terms of the Rules for the Procedure of Nomination of SACQSP Council Members (Government Gazette, 27 August 2021), you are cordially invited to nominate one or more persons for consideration and possible appointment as member(s) of the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP) in terms of the Quantity Surveying Profession Act, 2000 (Act No. 49 of 2000).

When nominating, consideration should be given to aspect such as race, gender, disability and geographical location.

The following should be noted:

1. Nominees must be registered with the SACQSP, as a Professional Quantity Surveyor. 
   Registration in the candidate category is expressly excluded in terms of section 3(1)(a) of the Act
2. The nominations must be made on the Nomination Form provided and be signed by a registered person submitting such.
3. Nominees appointed to the Council may not serve for more than two consecutive terms of office.
4. The Council will meet at least four times a year and will be supported by administrative staff. The period of office for the members is four years.
5. The nominations must be accompanied by:
   5.1 An Acceptance and Declaration Form duly completed and signed by the nominator and the nominee; and
   5.2 A Curriculum Vitae in the attached format
   5.3 All the requires supporting documentation
6. All Nominations are at the discretion of the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) for appointment.
7. Successful nominees will be appointed in their own right and will not represent any constituency in particular.
8. Since the number of nomination is likely to exceed the number of vacancies on Council by a significant margin, consideration will be given to the nominees’ expertise, background and ability to make a contribution.
9. All nominees must be South African citizens and be ordinarily resident in the RSA.
10. All nominations, duly completed and signed, must be submitted to the Council (Attention: The PA-REGISTRAR at pa-registrar@sacqsp.co.za) at the address provided in this correspondence, by no later than 12h00 on the 03RD DECEMBER 2024. Incomplete nominations and nominations received after this date will not be considered.
11. SACQSP will establish a “Recommendation Panel” (in terms of Rule 8.1 of the Procedure for Nomination of Council Members, which will be responsible for recommending to Council the names of the nominees considered most suitable for appointment by the Minister. No member of the Recommendation Panel will be eligible for appointment to the Council.
12. The Minister retains the discretion to appoint any person who may have been nominated but not recommended. Therefore the names of all the nominees will be presented to the Minister.
13. Appointments will be on a non-remunerative basis. Only reasonable travel and subsistence expenses will be paid to members.

CLICK HERE FOR THE COUNCIL NOMINATIONS 2024 – 2026

Like many other colleagues in the construction industry I struggled on many projects to answer the question whether a contractor is entitled to additional time complete a project for a specific delay event. After many projects I still was not certain of how this common question can be objectively answered. It was only after I spend a few years researching it for a PhD that I was able to come up with a satisfactory answer that can be applied no matter the type of the delay event. This article explains a simplistic tool that can be used to establish whether a contractor is entitled to the extension of the agreed construction period.

We often use the term “being entitled” to describe a person who cut in front of us in the line waiting for our morning coffee or taking a seat reserved for seniors on a train, but what is the true meaning of entitlement? The Merriam-Webster dictionary provides a twofold definition for the word entitled:

1. belief that one is deserving of or entitled to certain privileges
2. a right to benefits specified especially by law or contract

When it comes to construction delay, the second part of the definition referring to a right to benefits specified by a contract is particularly applicable.

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Imagine a contractor is delayed by the indecision of an owner on the type of floor finish, is the contractor entitled to complete the building later than agreed in the construction contract?

If we use the definition of entitlement to guide us in the process to answer the question two elements of the definition are important. Firstly, in this example, the benefit to the contractor would be more time to complete the project to avoid being held responsible for damages. Secondly, the definition explains that the right to the benefit (additional time) is specified in the contract. The construction contract is the perfect starting place in our journey to answer the complex question of entitlement.

Studying many construction contracts, I concluded that most of the contracts rely on three main elements to establish this right to additional time for the contractor. The Delay Entitlement Triad depicted below summarized the three core pillars on entitlement.

If we use the definition of entitlement to guide us in the process to answer the question two elements of the definition are important. Firstly, in this example, the benefit to the contractor would be more time to complete the project to avoid being held responsible for damages. Secondly, the definition explains that the right to the benefit (additional time) is specified in the contract. The construction contract is the perfect starting place in our journey to answer the complex question of entitlement.

Studying many construction contracts, I concluded that most of the contracts rely on three main elements to establish this right to additional time for the contractor. The Delay Entitlement Triad depicted below summarized the three core pillars on entitlement.

Contract Compliance

Construction contracts typically include certain procedures that should be followed to claim for an extension of time.
A common contract procedure is that the contractor is required to notify the owner of a potential delay within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply with the notification provision may lead to the contractor forfeiting their entitlement to an extension of the contract period.

Excusable Delay

Construction contracts would sometimes stipulate specific delay events that are seen as excusable and would entitle the contractor to additional time. However, construction contracts only allow additional time as a remedy for an excusable delay. What is an excusable delay? An excusable delay is a delay event that is caused by the owner or anyone in the sphere of control of the owner or caused by events beyond the control of the contractor and the owner. If the delay event is not excusable the contract would not be entitled to additional time.

Critical Delay

As a test, review the delay claim provision of the next contract you deal with. Chances are that it would have wording along the lines of, the contractor can claim for an extension of the contract period for delays impacting the project completion date. Using the critical path method of scheduling we know that only delays on the critical path would ultimately delay completion. In other words, entitlement can only be established for delay events causing a critical activity (an activity on the critical path) to be completed later than planned. The agreed project schedule will show which activities are on the critical path.

Conclusion

Employing the three keys of contract compliance, excusable delay, and critical delay from the Delay Entitlement Triad should make it easier to ascertain whether the contractor is entitled to additional time.

With the danger of sounding entitled, I will risk mentioning that my book, Delay Analysis Simplified, provides a framework to practically apply the Delay Entitlement Triad and also provides further information on what is required to turn the keys to satisfy the entitlement requirement.

The ASAQS is proud to recognise Johannes van den Heever, a second-year student at the University of Pretoria, as the recipient of the prestigious DJ Laing Memorial Scholarship for 2024. This scholarship is granted to one exceptional Quantity Surveying student nationwide and recognises excellence in both academic performance and personal character.

Johannes’ journey is one marked by remarkable achievements and an unwavering dedication to excellence. From his first year at the University of Pretoria, Johannes distinguished himself with outstanding academic results, laying a strong foundation for a promising career in Quantity Surveying. His impressive performance in his initial year of study echoes the high standards he set as a top achiever during his high school years at Merensky High School.

Beyond the classroom, Johannes’s passion and commitment extend to the sports field. He played for the 1st team in both rugby and cricket and was a member of the Limpopo Province Academic U/18 rugby team. His leadership abilities are equally noteworthy; serving as headboy and ECR chairperson at Merensky High School, Johannes demonstrated qualities of guidance, responsibility, and perseverance.

Johannes embodies leadership, loyalty, and a profound sense of duty. These traits, combined with his academic and extracurricular successes, make him an exemplary recipient of the DJ Laing Memorial Scholarship. The ASAQS is thrilled to support Johannes in his academic and professional journey and looks forward to seeing him thrive and contribute meaningfully to the field of Quantity Surveying. His commitment, determination, and multifaceted achievements signal a bright future, and we are excited to witness the impact he will undoubtedly make in the industry. Congratulations, Johannes, on this well-deserved recognition!

We invite you to join us as we gather to honour and celebrate the life of Miles, a beloved friend, brother, husband and cherished father.

🗓 Monday, 11 November 2024
⏰ 11:00 am
📍 The Club House at Claremont Cricket Club (Near Virgin Active Constantia)
👕 Semi Formal/Casual Dress Code

Please join us to share stories, remember joyful moments, and pay tribute to the wonderful person he was. His warmth, kindness, and spirit will live on in the memories of all who knew him.

RSVP: Wednesday, 6 November 2024

Much Love, The Warren Family

Miles was a senior member of ASAQS and owner of the firm, Hope & Warren Quantity Surveyors in Cape Town.

Miles joined ASAQS in 1975 shortly after qualifying from the University of Natal with a  BSC.QS degree.

Many of his classmates will always remember Miles for his genuine friendship, his laugh and the sparkle in his eye - Bert van den Heever

The history

Did you know that in Windows, the MAX-PATH which means the maximum length for a full file path (including the drive letter, punctuation, folder names, file name, and file extension) is 260 characters by default, while the maximum file or folder name length (including the extension) can be up to 255 characters.

Windows has a restriction on the length of a path name due to legacy limitations from older versions of the operating system. Originally, Windows file paths were limited to 8 characters for the file name and 3 characters for the file extension (known as the 8.3 filename format). When Windows 95 introduced long file names, the maximum path length was set to 260 characters to maintain compatibility with existing applications and APIs.

However, with the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, users can now enable longer paths (up to 32,767 characters) by using the \\?\ prefix or by modifying system settings. This change helps accommodate modern applications that require longer paths, but some older 32-bit applications may still face compatibility issues.

Hard disk format comes to the rescue

The NTFS (New Technology File System) format system played a significant role in addressing the path length restriction in Windows. NTFS introduced several enhancements over its predecessors, such as improved metadata, better data recovery, and support for larger file sizes and longer file names.

One of the key features of NTFS is its ability to handle long file paths, which helped pave the way for the eventual removal of the 260-character path limit in later Windows versions. By supporting longer paths, NTFS made it easier for users to manage and organise files in deeply nested directories without running into the old limitations.

Long file names and nested paths

I like nesting the paths to the files on my computer. For instance 01 Work (7 characters - space is a character) will be followed by 01.01 Projects and 01.01.01 Current, 01.01.02 Archived, etc.

Note: Never start numbering at 1 otherwise you will find that the computer will sort the files 1,10,2,3, etc.

WiseCleaner says that in some cases, if your file is located deep within a bunch of nested folders and subfolders with long names, you may not successfully open, modify or copy it. (This WiseCleaner post will walk you through the steps to maximum the length for the file path on your Windows 11 but we recommend that you use an IT specialist to alter system settings!)

QS's use Excel

There are some issues associated with using Excel and the 260-character path length restriction. When file paths exceed this limit, users may encounter errors when trying to open, save, or share Excel files. This can be particularly problematic when working with deeply nested folders or files stored on cloud services like OneDrive or SharePoint.

Clothes don't make the man

So how did I copy the files from that old drive to OneDrive?

File Explorer did not work so I called on my trusty old friend Total Commander. Open the website, and the first impression is that it is old and shoddy but it does the work and is regularly updated (11.50 beta 4) was released the end of October.

TC64 does far more than File Explorer. Look at the video before you continue installing the program.

Total Commander 64 addresses the path length restriction by supporting paths longer than the traditional 260-character limit. It can handle paths up to 1022 characters for the entire path and 256 characters for individual file or folder names. This makes it a powerful tool for managing deeply nested directories and long file names that Windows Explorer struggles with.

Additionally, Total Commander provides options to delete files and folders directly, bypassing the limitations of the Windows Recycle Bin, which can be problematic with long paths. This ensures smoother file management even with complex directory structures. You can test it for a period of 30 days 

I use the Bursoft Portable Total Commander Extended. It is a Russian blog that offers the extended version although I believe 30% of the users are American.It installs in English and is loaded with extra programs without being a bloated install.

It includes (a shortened list): PotPlayer - multimedia player with built-in codecs', AIMP3 - audio player and my favourite FastStone Image Viewer - an image browser, converter and editor right you file explorer!

I hope Total Commander also comes to your rescue!

Compiled by: Bert van den Heever
Please Note:
While the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) aims to ensure that its technical support represents best practice, the ASAQS does not accept or assume any liability or responsibility for any events or consequences thereof that derive from the use of the technical support, documents or any other materials, software or resources as they are only intended to provide general guidance to those who wish to make use of it. Such technical support, publications, software or resources are provided "as is" without warranty of any kind, either ex pressed or implied including but without limitation to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement.

The quantity surveyors at the Department of Construction Economics of the University of Pretoria made history when five PhDs were achieved in one year. Pictured are the five graduates and their supervisor.

Back: Prof Hoffie Cruywagen (supervisor), Dr Danie Hoffman (graduated in April 2024)

Front: Dr Elzane van Eck, Dr Lydia Carroll, Dr Rouzkja Rogers, Dr Inge Pieterse (graduated in September 2024).

The diverse topics of their theses attest to the diversity within one discipline in the department and the remarkable versatility of their supervisor, whose depth of experience guided them through their processes over several years. The topics are:

The ASAQS played a significant role in specifically the studies of Danie and Elzane. Members will be familiar with the publication Green Building in South Africa: Guide to Costs & Trends emanating from Danie’s research. Elzane was supported by members partaking in her questionnaire. The other three generated data from practice-related information. 

The graduates will continue to plough back into our profession with pride.

Abstract

This article explores the advantages of newly qualified quantity surveyors advancing their careers within medium to large firms, rather than starting their own small businesses. It highlights the challenges faced by small firms in investing in research and development due to financial constraints and the negative impact of competitive pricing on human capital and resource upskilling. The article advocates for consolidating efforts within established firms to drive innovation, enhance skills, and secure the future of the quantity surveying profession through strategic growth and collaborative development.

Introduction

As the construction industry continues to evolve, we are witnessing a growing number of newly qualified quantity surveyors choosing to either join established firms or venture out to start their own practices. While entrepreneurship in any profession is commendable, I believe there are significant advantages to encouraging these talented professionals to advance their careers within medium to large quantity surveying (QS) firms, rather than everyone starting their own small businesses. In this article, I will explore why this approach can benefit not only the individual professionals but also the QS profession as a whole, particularly in the context of research and development, resource upskilling, and sustainable growth.

The Pitfalls of Starting Small Firms: Challenges in Research and Development

One of the primary challenges faced by small QS firms is the lack of resources and time to invest in research and development (R&D). When professionals start their own practices, the pressure to make ends meet often takes precedence over innovation. This focus on survival and generating immediate income can limit the ability to explore new technologies, methodologies, and approaches that are critical to keeping pace with an ever-changing industry.

In medium to large QS firms, there is a structured framework and dedicated resources to drive R&D initiatives. These firms have the capacity to invest in new ideas, explore innovative solutions, and adopt best practices that will ultimately benefit not just the firm but the industry at large. Encouraging more professionals to grow within these environments will lead to greater contributions to the field of quantity surveying, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

The Reality of Negative Competition

Another concern in the profession is the increasing trend of competition being used as a positive tool, which, in reality, can be detrimental when not approached strategically. Small firms often resort to offering high discounts to win clients, creating a race to the bottom that undervalues the profession. While this approach may seem like a quick win to attract projects, it often undermines the ability to invest in human capital and the upskilling of resources.

Medium to large firms, on the other hand, have the capacity to maintain competitive pricing while still investing in the professional development of their teams. These firms can afford to offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement paths that enhance the skills of their workforce. In doing so, they not only create a more competent and capable workforce but also elevate the overall standards of the profession.

The Case for Consolidation and Collaboration

To secure the future of the quantity surveying profession, there is a strong case for consolidating resources within medium to large firms rather than fragmenting the profession through numerous small enterprises. By encouraging new professionals to join and advance their careers in these larger firms, we enable the consolidation of knowledge, experience, and innovation within the industry. This consolidation is essential to driving research and development initiatives that address the evolving needs of the built environment.

Medium to large firms have the advantage of economies of scale, which allows them to pool resources and invest in technologies that small firms cannot afford. With a focus on R&D led by these firms, the QS profession can find innovative ways to serve the broader construction and built industry more effectively. It is through these efforts that we can develop new cost management techniques, sustainability measures, and risk mitigation strategies that will have a lasting impact on the industry.

Advancing the Quantity Surveying Profession Through Strategic Growth

For the QS profession to sustain itself in the future, we must prioritize growth and innovation within existing firms rather than dispersing our talents across multiple small enterprises. The focus should be on creating an environment where registered professionals can thrive, collaborate, and contribute to the collective knowledge of the profession. We need to embrace a model that values continuous learning, investment in skills development, and the nurturing of a culture that prioritizes research and development.

In conclusion, while entrepreneurship is a valuable aspect of the quantity surveying profession, the current trend of each professional starting their own small firm can lead to unintended consequences that may hinder the growth and innovation of the industry. By encouraging newly qualified registered professionals to advance their careers in medium to large firms, we can create a more sustainable future for the profession, driven by research, development, and a commitment to excellence. Let us work together to consolidate our efforts, grow existing firms, and make strategic investments in the future of the quantity surveying industry.

The path to a thriving profession lies in collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for the future. Let us build on the strong foundations of our medium to large firms, nurturing the next generation of quantity surveyors to become leaders who will take our industry to new heights.

Together, we can create a legacy that not only sustains but also redefines the QS profession for generations to come.

Article B: Mr Qinisani Nhlanhla Mbatha, Managing Director and Founder of Mbatha Walters and Simpson (Pty) Ltd, Professional Registered Quantity Surveyor, Past President of ASAQS, and Five-Term Council Member of SACQSP

We are excited to highlight Thato Sithole, a talented and determined recipient of the prestigious ASAQS Bursary for 2024. Thato’s journey in Quantity Surveying reflects not only her academic excellence but also her dedication to leadership and community involvement.

Currently pursuing her Post Graduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying at TUT, Thato completed her undergraduate degree in 2023. Her academic accomplishments, along with her passion for the profession, made her an ideal candidate for the ASAQS Bursary, which supports students aiming to advance their careers in the Quantity Surveying field.

Beyond academics, Thato’s leadership skills have been evident since her school years, where she served on the Senior Learner Representative Council and Head of Sports. This position allowed her to develop her leadership capabilities while managing various responsibilities and supporting her peers. Additionally, her love for netball saw her actively participating in the sport as a defender, where she displayed both teamwork and perseverance—qualities that have translated into her professional pursuits.

Thato’s involvement in extracurricular activities, coupled with her academic success, highlights her well-rounded character. Today, she continues to bring that same enthusiasm to her Quantity Surveying studies, where she is known for her proactive approach and her eagerness to learn both in the classroom and in real-world settings.

As she advances in her studies, we look forward to seeing her make meaningful contributions to the construction industry and beyond. Congratulations Thato!

15 October 2024

ASAQS calls for urgent collaborative action to end construction mafia’s climate of fear

The construction mafia has become so entrenched in South Africa that the risk of organised crime is increasingly factored into project contracts – suggesting that these criminal activities are a legitimate part of doing business. To restore the rule of law and revitalise the construction industry, the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) is calling for collaborative action between built environment professional associations and SAPS to combat these criminal extortion rings.

‘Although the South African government and various industry stakeholders are working to address the issue, the challenges remain and have now reached the point where many legitimate businesses are forced to cut jobs or scale back operations due to the financial pressures from extortion and intimidation,’ says Mosha Senyolo, President of ASAQS. ‘This contributes to higher unemployment, particularly in locations where construction and infrastructure development is key. Workers and businesses are threatened, which breaks down community trust and safety. Construction mafias are creating a climate of fear, and its ripple effect is giving rise to more opportunistic criminal behaviour.’

Ethical and existential dilemma

It’s estimated that the construction mafia has cost South Africa’s economy approximately R68 billion over the past decade. The impact on quantity surveyors is significant, as they have to account for potential extortion payments and increased security measures within their budgets. ‘Additionally, intimidation and disruptions lead to project delays, making it challenging not only for the contractors, but also for the project quantity surveyor to manage the complexities while trying to maintain their professional reputation,’ says Senyolo.

The increased call by contractors to incorporate the risks associated with organised crime into project contracts further complicates risk management strategies and drives up costs. She adds, ‘Moreover, dealing with clients or contractors who may be coerced, causes an ethical dilemma, putting our members in a difficult position as they strive to uphold the integrity that is at the core of our profession.’ Consequently, the relationships between quantity surveyors, contractors and clients suffer, fuelled by anxiety over project security that often erodes communication and trust.

Sharing insights and encouraging whistleblowing 

To effectively root out construction mafias, ASAQS calls for the establishment of a collaborative platform between built environment professional associations and SAPS. Since many members are directly impacted and face an existential risk, ASAQS is ideally positioned to create a safe space for industry professionals to submit tipoffs and blow the whistle on corruption. ‘Such a collaborative platform would enable us to share insights and potential approaches to combatting the construction mafia together with SAPS, based on the lived realities of our members on the ground,’ says Senyolo. Furthermore, ASAQS leadership is considering to engage directly with the special unit established by SAPS.

These measures – as well as regular meetings and information-sharing platforms with local communities during the planning phase of projects – are expected to encourage the reporting of suspicious activities without fear of retribution. By working more closely and establishing a platform to share insights, industry bodies and SAPS have the power to combine their forces in the fight against the construction mafia.

Reality check: Can we - practically and realistically - leverage this knowledge of the brain and behaviour to markedly reduce social violence, and create lasting societal peace?

Watch the short video above, and see the effect from numerous studies.

Application to the Middle East : Six Subsequent Replications

• 71% drop in war deaths
• 68% fewer injuries
• 48% fewer bombs, bullets
• 66% greater progress towards peace!

Why don't they teach this in schools?

Then I saw this report on The Good Things Guy.

De Rust, South Africa (11 October 2024) – Yoga offers numerous benefits for children, promoting both physical and mental health. The youngsters at Youth Potential South Africa (YOUPSA) got to experience first-hand just how great it is.

The organisation invited a yoga teacher from George; Michele Schubert of Iyengar Yoga in George to take the children through a series of yoga poses and movements.

Through gentle poses, breathing exercises, and meditation, the children got to learn about how they could better improve their flexibility, balance, and strength.

The session ended with a relaxation exercise, with the children lying on their backs with their eyes closed, calming their minds through breathing techniques.

YOUPSA works with rural disadvantaged children in the De Rust area, Western Cape, as well as in the Eastern Cape Province, impacting many hundreds of children and their communities.

The children YOUPSA works with hail from rural areas, experience extremely broken circumstances and are surrounded by numerous stressors that make it difficult for them to learn and thrive.

The yoga experience provided a breath of fresh air from daily adversities which affect their ability to engage with the world and make healthy life choices.

Mindfulness: Cultivating the Skills to Take Care of Ourselves in Challenging Times

Mindfulness can help us to increase our ability to regulate emotions, focus attention, decrease stress and much more. This pragmatic course gives you practical tools and proven techniques to apply in your everyday life!

Enroll for this super-free course and change your life!

From the notorious Mirror Trading International (MTI) Bitcoin scam that wreaked havoc during COVID to the controversial Gold Standard Banking (GSB), which led to a defamation lawsuit, the conversation highlights the sophisticated techniques scammers employ today. Key red flags include promises of high returns, lack of transparency, time pressure, and promoters flaunting extravagant lifestyles.

The discussion also explores how scammers use crypto to evade regulations, with MTI serving as a prime example of a Ponzi scheme masquerading as a trading platform. In an age of evolving digital fraud, it’s crucial to stay vigilant, avoid buzzwords like "work from anywhere," and remember that if there’s no real product involved, you might be the product!

https://www.moneyweb.co.za/moneyweb-crypto/crypto-podcasts/how-to-spot-a-crypto-scam/

Louis Nel is an experienced Full Stack Developer with a demonstrated history of working in the marketing and advertising industry.We will regularly feature articles and blogs from Louis. You can contact him at https://louisnel.co.za/contact/

On 27 September 2024, the NMU QS Student Society, in collaboration with the ASAQS Eastern Cape Chapter, hosted an inspiring Workability Event, designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world experience for approximately 80 quantity surveying students at Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth. The event brought together leading professionals to share their career journeys and industry insights, offering students invaluable guidance as they prepare for their future careers.

Keynote Speakers Inspire and Empower Future QS Professionals

The event featured a diverse line-up of speakers from different backgrounds, each offering valuable advice to the students:

Cebo Toyi from Pegasus Construction kicked off the event by sharing his remarkable journey from being a BTech student to launching his own construction company, specialising in the fit-out of retail spaces. Cebo encouraged students to be resilient and determined, highlighting his current pursuit of a BSc Honours degree while managing a successful business.

Following Cebo’s inspiring start, Esethu Ntsalaze, a candidate QS at BTKM Quantity Surveyors, took the stage to provide students with practical advice on networking and securing employment before completing their studies. Esethu emphasised the importance of having a clear vision for one’s career from an early stage, encouraging students to take proactive steps towards achieving their professional goals.

Candice du Preez from Synergy Property Solutions, a candidate QS with seven years of experience, offered her perspective on career progression. As a part-time lecturer at NMU, she stressed the importance of asking questions and seeking clarity when starting out in the workplace. Candice also highlighted how networking can open doors for new graduates entering the competitive job market.

Grant Hechter, the founder and managing director of Synergy Property Solutions, provided an inspirational account of his career, which began after he was retrenched from one of his first jobs. He went on to establish Siseko Quantity Surveyors and later Synergy Property Solutions, which now offers both QS and project management services while engaging in property development. Grant emphasised the importance of becoming indispensable to employers by mastering digital tools and using software to streamline tasks, a valuable skill in today’s fast-paced industry.

Janita Stroebel, director of BTKM Quantity Surveyors EC and chairperson of the ASAQS Eastern Cape Chapter, shared her own career story, emphasising the value of taking on challenges that others might shy away from. She encouraged students to back themselves and seek out continuous learning opportunities. Janita reminded attendees that saying “yes” to new opportunities – even those outside of one’s comfort zone – is key to growth and advancement.

Closing the event, Christine Mutanda, stakeholder relations manager for ASAQS, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting the profession. Christine emphasised the unique and valuable skill set quantity surveyors possess, urging students to take pride in their chosen career path and embrace the opportunities offered by the ASAQS.

Building Bridges for Future Success

The event successfully bridged the gap between academia and the professional world, offering students a first-hand look at the opportunities and challenges they will face after graduation. Through personal stories and actionable advice, the speakers encouraged attendees to take control of their career paths, hone their skills, and make the most of their time as students.

The NMU QS Student Society and ASAQS Eastern Cape Chapter are proud to have hosted such an impactful event, which will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the next generation of quantity surveyors. By fostering industry connections and providing real-world insights, events like these are vital in preparing students for successful careers in the construction industry.