Mandatory & Opt Flashcards
1
Q
Sustainability:
How is district cooling slightly sustainable?
A
Better than high energy consumption individual AC units
Note:
- Tech - delivers chilled water piped to buildings for cooling air
- Fundamental design changes such as less glazing, will drastically reduce cooling demand
2
Q
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
How you would produce a cash flow forecast?*
interview
A
Programme
Costs (expenditure)
Advance payments, payment terms, retention, etc., all of which are part of the Conditions of Contract
3
Q
Client Care:
Are there any times when you do not need a CHP?
A
Yes, if acting as an Expert Witness
4
Q
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
What is the RICS DRS?
A
Dispute resolution service
Helps people find dispute resolvers
Note:
Oldest and largest provider of ADR in built environment
5
Q
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
If a dispute arises and it is looking like it will be escalated to the next level of ADR, how do you know which level to go to?
A
As set out in Contract
6
Q
Health + Safety:
Who is ultimately responsible for H+S on-site?
A
The Engineer and Client
7
Q
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
Dispute resolution stages on OZ?*
SOE
A
Written notice - within 28 days of becoming aware
Negotiation (with 3rd party)
Dispute Committee (already appointed) - meet within 10 days, agreement in 40 days
Arbitration (DIAC) - file and go to Arb after 56 days
Note:
- Negotiation with neutral 3rd party (just say this)
- OZ Cl. 32 dispute resolution
8
Q
Team Working:
What is team dynamics?
A
Different
- ability levels
- culture/race
- skills/weaknesses
- diverse
9
Q
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
Is OZ Contract straight to court, or Arb?
A
Arbitration
10
Q
Health + Safety:
What is ‘reportable injury’ under RIDDOR 2013?
SOE
A
Death
Specific injuries
Injury for 7+ days (for workers)
Report dangerous to public occurrences such as gas leaks
Note:
- A work-related accident that causes physical injury, including violence, must be reported as a ‘reportable injury’
- Hospital treatment (for non-workers)
11
Q
Business Planning:
What’s a SWOT analysis?*
SOE
A
Strengths (int)
Weaknesses (int)
Opportunities (ext)
Threats (ext)
Note:
- Situational analysis
- Microeconomic
12
Q
Client Care:
What do you think the principles of client care are?
SOE “appropriate behaviours are required to maintain and improve client relations”
A
Understand client objectives
Clear scope of services and fee
Establish clear lines of communication
Service - be courteous, punctual and professional
Put the developer best interests ahead of developer reps personal view
13
Q
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What’s a Balance sheet?*
SOE
A
Current assets and liabilities
One-time snapshot of companies financial health
e.g. 31/03/19
Note:
[assets - liabilities = shareholder equity]
a common-size balance sheet reports money as % of assets, good for comparison with other firms, more confidential
14
Q
Sustainability:
RICS SKA rating is an environmental assessment for which type of works?
A
Benchmark and standard for non-domestic fit-outs
Note:
- Free online tool to help organisations with fit-out sustainability (pay for certificate)
- Reduces operating costs, improves energy and water management, occupier well-being and asset value
- Stages
1 Design/ planning - identify Client priorities
2 Handover - gathering evidence from O+M manuals
3 Occupancy - option to review 12m after completion
15
Q
Health + Safety:
How are risks assessed on your project?
A
Carried out by the Contractor’s H+S manager
16
Q
Sustainability:
Do I think LEED compliance would have cost the Employer on the project budget?
SOE “cost of achieving is generally higher”
A
Yes, rather than using the cheapest solution,
have to source locally which may cost more than China
17
Q
Risk Management:
What methods can you mitigate commercial risks for an Employer on a construction project?
(the procurement route is fixed/past)
A
Payment terms - retention, LD’s
Guarantees and bonds - PCG, AP, PB
Insurances - CAR, PI
Note:
- Prequal tenderers - solvency vetting
- SFC review and amendment
18
Q
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
2 key financial statements that all companies must provide, and why are these required?
A
Current - Balance Sheet
Historic - Profit and Loss statement
Why?
- Legal obligation for listed companies
- Update the market on their performance
19
Q
Team Working:
What is the the RICS Diversity and Inclusion Strategy about?
A
Tackle barriers to entry and encourage a more diverse profession
Promoting LGBT in profession
20
Q
Business Planning:
How do you start a business in UAE? What steps to take?
A
activity - select business activity
jurisdiction - select (mainland/ free zone/ off-shore)
trade license - obtain
register - company
Others: 1 select business activity 2 select jurisdiction (mainland/ free zone/ off-shore) 3 Define company structure 4 Company name approval 5 Obtain trade license 6 Register company 7 Find local partner (depending on jurisdiction type) 8 Obtain external approvals
21
Q
Client Care:
Is the decision of an ombudsman binding?
A
No, can proceed to litigation
22
Q
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
How long must private companies keep accounting records for? and how long for public companies?
UK
A
Private = 3 years
Public = 6 years
23
Q
Data Management:
How do you determine if a document is public, private or restricted?
A
impact matrix based on..
- reputation
- financial
- legal
24
Q
Data Management:
What business management systems (BMS) you have in place at your firm?
A
One Omnium - containing
- standard forms/templates
- time sheets,
- leave requests,
- CHP,
- project organisation charts
25
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
What is an expert witness?
expert of subject matter (e.g. rail)
informs and guides in court
Note:
must demonstrate high levels of impartiality
26
Health + Safety:
What are meant by the term ACOP's?
Approved Codes of Practice
27
Health + Safety:
Describe your firms H+S policy?
comply with law and the Contractor's on site
Note:
Note - Aecom have their own H+S policy
28
Risk Management:
What is Central limit theorem?
90% confidence for project contingency fund
Note:
mathematical technique used to provide a 90%
confidence level for a project contingency fund
29
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
Main issues with litigation?
Cost,
time
public knowledge
can be appealed
30
Client Care:
How do you establish a Client’s objectives?
pre-start meeting with them
If still ambiguity, hold further meetings/correspondence to clarify.
```
Notes:
objectives include
- Risk appetite
- TCQ
- Desired final product.
- Functionality
- KPI
```
31
Risk Management:
What are quantitative risk analysis methods?*
Applying a number to a risk
Simple method of assessment - price a register (min, max, likely)
Monte Carlo
Note:
- Central limit theorem
- % of cost plan (5% design and 8% construction)
- Quantify in terms of cost and time
32
Risk Management:
According to NRM1, how to calculate risk allowance, at cost planning stages?*
Base cost x % allow for Design development risk
+
Base cost x % allow for Construction risk
+
Base cost x % allow for Employer change risk
+
Base cost x % allow for Employer other risk
Note:
Base cost = works + design fees + developer fees
e.g. Base cost x % allow for Design development risk
AED 10m x 2% = AED 200,000
33
Sustainability:
Examples of sustainable design features (designing a building)?
SOE
Building orientation,
glazing ratio,
brise soleil
34
Sustainability:
Provide examples of renewables technologies?
Solar - panels
wind - turbines
water - hydro energy
35
Team Working:
Difference between management and leadership?
Leadership sets direction for group, a spearhead for direction
Management is motivating, monitoring, splitting tasks, etc
36
Sustainability:
What is the purpose DGBR?
SOE "OZ complies with DGBR"
Local sustainability guidance,
to improve energy performance
e.g. 5% from recycled materials
Note:
- For new projects (excl malls and hospitals)
- building requirements such as meters to record electrical, water and central air conditioning consumption
- Developers must submit Green Building Declaration
37
Business Planning:
How will becoming MRICS help your firm?
Bidding for projects
Delivery higher quality on existing contracts
38
Data Management:
Name some sources of external cost data?
Spon's (UK) - tendering and rate check (SOE)
BCIS - for bm feasibility and cost plans (SOE)
Quotes - from Subcontractors and Suppliers
39
Team Working:
How to manage people working under you?
Communicate,
Develop them,
be a role model
Note:
plan, provide clear manageable tasks, motivate
40
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What is IFRS?
International Financial Reporting Standards
Common rules for accounting consistency
Note:
UK has GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Practice)
41
Data Management:
isurv - What data do you use in your work and how do you manage this?
Mainly tendering information
secured - stored on encrypted drive and Aconex
42
Health + Safety:
How is COSHH 2012 relevant on our projects?
SOE
Law requires employers to COSHH.
Identified through COSHH assessment
```
Note:
COSHH 2012 (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations)
```
43
Data Management:
What's EDMS?
Electronic Data Management System
Notes:
- Retrieval/ easily access data
- Security encryption
44
Sustainability:
Who is the governing body of LEED?
US Green Building Council
USGBC
45
Risk Management:
You're lay-client is not in construction related industry. They want minimal risk. what procurement route would you advise?
Design and build
Note:
single point responsibility
46
Health + Safety:
| Example of witnessing dangerous h+s violation on-site?
interview
General principles not to walk by.
Advise tradesmen.
Inform H+S manager
47
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
4x main ratio analysis used to assess a companies financial strength?*
P L F G
Profitability - in relation to turnover
Liquidity - ability to meet current obligations due
Financial - return on capital employed (ROCE)
Gearing - loan exposure debt divided by equity
48
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
What is the conflict avoidance pledge?
Global coalition for conflict avoidance
Note:
- RIBA, network rail, CIArb, TFL
- Free to sign up for
49
Sustainability:
What sustainability targets/ environmental assessments on OZ?*
SOE
LEED v3 Gold (achieved)
50
Communication + Negotiation:
What are kinaesthetic learning style?
physical - kinaesthetic learners absorb info best through touch, movement and motion.
Note:
The word refers to our ability to sense body position and movement. This means that to really understand something, they need to touch it, feel it and move it around.
51
Client Care:
In addition to on site QAQC with Director, what other company process do we have?
SOE
I check colleague ARF's beforehand
Quality Policy - 9x statements detailing our promise for performance and compliance
Notes:
- compliance with ISO 9001:2015
- Omn are RICS regulated firm
52
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
| What's working capital calculation?
liquidity ratio
Assets less liabilities
53
Risk Management:
What should the project contingency allowance be based on?*
/What is Simple method of assessment method
for calculating a risk allowance on a project?
On a project specific risk register..
Likelihood x most likely price (min, max, most likely).
contingency = sum total of 'likely'
Note:
Rather than % driven
54
Business Planning:
| What might you expect in a business plan?*
5 year plan
Formal statement of business goals, why they are attainable and strategy to achieve
Budgeting/ financing
Company targets - short and long term
Market forecast/ analysis (SWOT, PESTLE)
Note:
- Feedback/ KPI's
- New Clients
- Key risks
- Plan B - corrective action plan
- Resources plan - requirements, allocation/ utilisation, % overhead (admin, HR)
- Review of previous 5 years
- Strategy to achieve measurable goals
55
Risk Management:
What's does 'expected monetary value' mean?
Quantify risks and
Calculate contingency
56
Business Planning:
How to minimise scope creep?
Clearly set-out scope in terms of engagement
Discuss if feel that scope if creeping
57
Client Care:
Your client want to make a formal complaint, what steps should you take to manage this?
Try to resolve at project level, escalate and follow guidance as per the CHP, notify insurance if required
As per CHP 2016 guidance note - first stage is handled and escalated internally within timeframe.
If unresolved, then refer to independent redress mechanism DIAC (as approved by SR+B)
58
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
Typical signs of Contractor insolvency?
High recent staff turnover
Immediate invoicing/ gross overvalue
Lack of labour, activity, materials on-site
Subcontractor payment complaints, market rumours
Note:
- Front loaded tender
- Inability to provide performance bond
- Works on site lack progress or slows
59
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What is gross profit
and what is net profit?
Gross profit = revenue - costs
Net profit = revenue - all expenses (bottom line)
Note:
- Gross profit % = gross profit / turnover x 100
- Net profit % = net profit / turnover x 100
60
Sustainability:
| What defines hazardous waste?
UK
Contains 1 of 16 hazardous properties
Waste oils, asbestos, aerosols, batteries
Note:
As defined on European waste Catalogue
61
Data Management:
What is Tender Price Index (TPI)?
Cost to Client
| Tender Returns
62
Data Management:
What is a deed?
Contract executed under seal
Notes:
- executed under seal (signed by the parties, witnessed and most importantly made clear that it is executed as a deed
- or under hand (a 'simple contract' that is just signed by the parties).
63
Business Planning:
Re SWOT, provide an example of an external opportunity?
Saudi 2030
Facemask supplier (non-construction)
64
Data Management:
Why is data held for 6yrs underhand and 12yrs as a deed - what do the years relate to?
Duration of liability
65
Client Care:
What are the RICS consultant appointment documents called?
Standard Form
Short Form
Notes
- RICS Standard Form Consultant Appointment
- RICS Short Form Consultant Appointment
66
Risk Management:
How are risk recorded and managed on OZ?
MC have 5.02-R01 Risk Register
Notes:
SOE I have only updated Risk + Opportunities register
67
Data Management:
What's UK Data Protection Act 2018?
Processing/ storage of personal data
Compliments the EU GDPR
Note:
- Gives people right to know what info is held on them
- Its for the digital age
68
Team Working:
Are there any disadvantages of working in a team?
When teams are too large
- motivation, task ownership can languish
- silo information
- personality clashes potentially
69
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What is working capital?
Ability to pay current debts/liabilities with current liquid assets
70
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What's the quick ratio calculation?
assets less stock, divided by liabilities
Note:
- measures liquidity more precisely than current ration
- also known as acid test
- 1+ is good score
71
Risk Management:
You "participated in risks and opportunities register for procurement delay solutions." What area did you review, what did you propose?
SOE
Part of Podium A had IFT
Award, rather than await full Podium A IFT
Note:
I did say rather than procuring as separate trade packages (either or)
72
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
Benefits of ADR over litigation?
Quicker
Less formal
Cheaper
Private
73
Risk Management:
Define what is a risk?*
Uncertain event or circumstance,
Potential to effect project
Notes:
NRM definition "the likelihood of an event or failure occurring and its consequences or impact"
74
Data Management:
What data are the RICS Data Standards are already available for?
IPMS
ICMS
Note - soon to be:
ILMS - International Land Measurement Standard
IVS - International Valuation Standard
75
Data Management:
What's the data protection law in UAE called?
DIFC Data Protection Law
Notes:
- Collection, handling and disclosure of personal data
- Consistent with EU regs and OECD guidelines
76
Data Management:
What data is generally included in BCIS?
SOE
Costs - elemental, total
Indices - TPI, RPI
Average rates - GBP/m2, functional units, prelim %
Factors - location, date, contract type, brief spec
BCIS Notes:
- Indicy based, re-base for year, location
- Most useful early, for project appraisals
- RICS, 50+ years of data
77
Sustainability:
What are the challenges in achieving sustainability in the QS and construction discipline generally?
Change mindsets, behaviours, costs
and obtaining buy-in from all parties
Given new renewable tech a chance
78
Data Management:
What is Building Cost Index (BCI)?
Cost to Contractor
| - Labour and material
79
Client Care:
| What is included in a consultants form of appointment?
terms of engagement
Scope
CHP + PII
Payment terms
Agreed resource
Notes:
- Detail on 3rd party rights/ collateral warranties
- Client money handling procedure
- Health and safety responsibility
- Method of dispute resolution
- Details of termination
- Under hand/ deed
80
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
3 key differences between arbitration and litigation?
Informal/ formal
International binding/ appeals possible
Private/ public
81
Risk Management:
NRM1 - four categories of risk?*
SOE
1 Design development risk
2 Construction risk
3 Employer change risk
4 Employer other risk
Notes:
- 1 Design changes in estimating data, planning and legal agreements, tendering delays
- 2 Site conditions, access, existing services, ground conditions
- 3 Changes in scope of work, brief, quality and time
- 4 Postponement, acceleration, availability of funds, unconventional tender action, special contract arrangements
82
Business Planning:
Name some business planning tools used by your firm?
SWOT - Strengths, weak, opps, threats
| PESTLE - Political, Economic, Social, Technology, Legal, Environmental
Macro
83
Risk Management:
provide some examples of construction specific risks?*
Financing
Procurement delay
Employer change management
H+S
Note:
- Site - planning, environmental
- Poor Contractor selection
- Appropriate contract selectin
- Reputational
- PESTLE
84
Client Care:
Describe soft landings?
Care through transition -
such as handing over through to operational phase
85
Risk Management:
Whilst at a meeting with PM and client, you become aware of a potential risk. The client is aware as present in the meeting. How do you formally record the cost impact?
Produce an early warning
Record the likely cost impact in the cost report.
Record the worst case scenario impact in the internal value.
86
Health + Safety:
You mention the Tenderers are issued the H+S info in the Tender Docs - what section?
Spec/ Div.1 General Requirements
Note:
- H+S spec
- H+S+ emergency response requirements
87
Sustainability:
Why do developers opt for green belt land and why is this an issue?
why
- clean and cheaper to build on
- e.g. no existing services, remediation costs
an issue
- Un-environmentally friendly,
- better to upgrade existing communities
- longer commutes
88
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
New York Convention 1958 is?
International recognition and enforcement of foreign arbitral awards
Referral by a court to arbitration
89
Sustainability:
What's passivhaus?
driven by air quality and comfort
without need for mechanical (heating, AC)
90
Business Planning:
What is a corporate/company business plan?
- Vision statement (the goal)
- mission statement (how to achieve)
- resources
- objectives (measurable)
- strategies (to reach)
Note:
Inwards focused
91
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
Arabtec recently liquidated. What does liquidation mean?
The end of the company
inability to pay debts - sell off assets to repay
notes:
- a form of bankruptcy
- Grounds for termination on OZ
92
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What are the limitations of relying on ratios?
Doesn't capture the brand, e.g. the value of the Adidas name is not captured, but it's a huge asset
Notes:
- reputation
- longevity
- performance compared to peers
93
Data Management:
What is the UAE requirement for data retention?
5 years
94
Risk Management:
What is the difference between risk and issue?
Risk = uncertain event or circumstance, potential to effect project
Issue = something that is definitely happening
95
Risk Management:
How to cost the project risk/ contingency?*
(interview)
What is Simple method of assessment method for calculating a risk allowance on a project?
col 1. Risk name
col 2. % probability
x
col 3. likely cost
sum total = contingency
Note:
- Cost can be min, max, most likely
- Traditionally it was Contract sum %
- Refer Mgmt of Risk 2015 appendix B
96
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
| What company accounts must be kept?
UK
P+L
Balance sheet (signed by Director)
Notes to the accounts
```
Note:
Group accounts (if applicable)
```
97
Sustainability:
What is ISO 50001?
Energy management system
98
Sustainability:
What is the RICS social impact awards?
Recognising built environment's positive and transformational contribution to society
(#valuetheplanet)
99
Data Management:
Data management on our site?
Aconex,
Doc Controller,
head office servers with periodic back-up
100
Team Working:
Difference between committee and team?
Committee may not be united in actions or agreement.
Team aims for a common goal
101
Risk Management:
How is risk managed on OZ?*
Contractor + PM maintains risk and opportunities register
Meets monthly (minimum) - to manage and close-out
Key events like excavation, lift link project, Covid
102
Risk Management:
What's does a risk register consist of?
1 Risks identified
2 Assessment (probability and costing)
3 risk management strategy
Note:
- describes risk
- rating
- who best to mange
- cost impact - Quantitative cost risk analysis results
- time impact - Quantitative schedule risk analysis results
- and periodic review/ monitor
103
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
3 forms of arbitration?
Short hearing,
documents only,
full hearing
104
Communication + Negotiation:
Engineers Instruction is written by email, is this correct?
Generally it is not formal. Reply via formal letter, requesting formal instruction
However, It may be acceptable, if detailed in contract
105
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What's capex and opex?
Capital expenditure - e.g. Facade package
Operational expenditure, day-to-day - e.g. FM for car park management
106
Health + Safety:
What are VOC materials?
Volatile Organic Compounds
high vapour pressured chemical compounds that can enter atmosphere (e.g. E1 formaldehyde)
107
Health + Safety:
What is the HSE?
Health and Safety Executive
provides guidance and information online
108
Client Care:
In your SOE, you understand your "clients key objectives" on OZ - what are these again?*
Quality (flagship asset)
cost (expensive development, $bn)
```
Note:
Time is important of course, but not prioritised in this limited triangle
Trad = quality and cost
D+B = time and cost
MC/CM = time and quality
```
109
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What's a statement of comprehensive income?
Comprehensive income (P+L)
shows income, expenditure and profit or loss of the company
110
Health + Safety:
At what height does Working at Height Regulations become applicable
No minimum height
Note:
2005 update removed the 2m minimum
111
Team Working:
Of a team you worked within – Was the team successful, and why?
Yes.
Consider common sense of purpose, understood objectives, trust, respect, well managed
Note:
SOE - Aecom resi meeting pre-contract deadlines
112
Sustainability:
What is the RICS sustainable business toolkit?
Help identify sustainability factors within a project/development
Note:
Excel based free resource
113
Team Working:
Of a team you worked within – which role did you play?
Of the 9 Dr Belbin roles, I am the "Team worker"
= co-operative, mild, perceptive, diplomatic; listens, builds, averts friction"
114
Risk Management:
You're lay-client is not in construction related industry. They want minimal risk. what SFC FIDIC contract would you advise?
FIDIC silver
Note:
- Most onerous on contractor, even ground conditions are MC risk
- would explain that risk is priced in however
115
Sustainability:
In addition to LEED, BREEAM, Ska - what's another sustainability assessment?
Green Star
Estidama's Pearl rating system
116
Health + Safety:
Surveying safely 2nd Ed - What does the guidance note provide guidance on?*
SOE
Details personal and corporate responsibilities
Assessing hazards
Fire safety
Visiting site
Occupational hygiene
117
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
A key difference between mediation/ conciliation?
Mediation with no opinion - conciliation with opinion/solution
118
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
When reviewing audited accounts, what are common red flags?*
SOE
Balance sheets
- poor cashflow, caused by issues on other projects
- Accounts receivable high AED outstanding
P+L accounts
- concerning recent historic performance
119
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
What is professional arbitration on court terms (PACT)?
For lease agreements/renewals
Note:
- like arb - it's quick, cheap, less formal, private
- More for property pathways
120
Data Management:
What's EU GDPR 2018?
What does GDPR do generally?
General Data Protection Regulations:
- Relates to personal data
- Control to individuals, right to erase data held
Notes:
- Single data protection regime for business in EU
- N/A unless offering goods and services to EU countries
- No personal data processed unless on lawful basis
121
Risk Management:
You proposed a single-fit out package, but advised of another layer of fit-out prelims. How could these prelims be slightly offset by fit-out contractor vs multiple individual trade subcontractors?
(time benefits aside)
SOE
I noted prelims could be offset through
- economies of scale (in-house labour)
- obtain better rates (existing relation and contractual flexibility)
122
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
| What's a current ratio?
interview
Liquidity ratio
(ability to meet current obligations from assets)
Note:
assets / liabilities , 2+ shows twice as many assets to liabilities
123
Client Care:
Difference between Client and Customer?
Client is under the protection of another. A Customer purchases a commodity or service
124
Risk Management:
Define what is a hazard?
The potential to cause harm to people or property
125
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What is the breakeven point?
Level of sales needed to breakeven
126
Sustainability:
Are you aware of Al Sa'fat?
Dubai green building rating
Platinum, gold, silver, bronze
```
Notes:
Applies to
- All new buildings;
- alterations
- Existing buildings, when specified.
- Change of Use
```
127
Team Working:
| What is The Equality Act 2010?
UK
Replaced the following discrimination Acts
- sex discriminations
- race relations
- disability discriminations
128
Business Planning:
What is the business planning tool SMART targets stand for?
Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Realistic
Timed
129
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What is bankruptcy?
a court order deciding how person/firm will repay debts
The end of the company
inability to pay debts - sell off assets to repay
```
Note:
2 forms of
- reorganisation
- liquidation
2 types of
- voluntary
- involuntary
```
130
Risk Management:
According to NRM1, what should you base risk allowance on, at cost planning stages?
Completeness of design
Uncertainties such as site investigation
4x NRM categorise - design development, construction, Employer change, Employer other
Note:
Not % driven
131
Risk Management:
Why is a QS concerned with risk?
Pricing register (likelihood x cost = x. sum-total x = contingency)
Manage contingency (include reduce for past risks no longer a risk)
Provide EW in cost report - awareness of, and avoid Client exposures
132
Client Care:
What is ISO 9001?
Quality Management System(s)
to manage and monitor quality (across a business)
Note:
2015 update less paperwork required, more emphasis on supply chain
133
Risk Management:
What are the 3 types of contamination?
Inert
Contaminated
Non-contaminated
134
Health + Safety:
Is HSE guidance compulsory?
No
Note:
Clue is 'guidance'
135
Data Management:
What steps to take to control a designers Intellectual Property?
and Client data?
Share only relevant data - rather than entireties
Sign NDA
Encryption for data transfer and e-mail
Hand delivery of documents
136
Data Management:
isurv - How can I ensure compliance with data protection legislation?
Only keep required info
Ensure people know I have it and why
Do not share info
Others:
- hold securely
- limit access
- deleting if finished with it
137
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
Name some causes of disputes?
Poorly constructed contract/agreement (ambiguous)
Poor communication (to resolve)
Late payment
Disagreement on value of change
138
Sustainability:
Kyoto Protocol 1997 - what does this protocol commit countries to?
Commits countries to emission targets
Notes:
- Adopted in Kyoto, Japan on 11 December 1997 - enforced 2005
- Amended in Doha in 2012 - new commitments, revised greenhouse gases list
- Heavier burdens on developed nations, as more responsible for problem
- International agreement linked to UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
139
Client Care:
If you under-resourced a fee proposal, should you request more money?
No, our mistake, learn from and do not reduce service
Note:
For scope creep yes.
140
Risk Management:
Why was it taking longer than anticipated to procure packages?
Implementing VE
Late IFT
Split focus across multi-asset
Decision/ approvals process
141
Business Planning:
How can you keep abreast of construction news, for market awareness?
RICS Modus
LinkedIn/ social media
ME - Middle East Construction News
Networking/ seminars
142
Communication + Negotiation:
Effective and efficient communication examples?
Effective – well detailed (priority getting across the message)
Efficient – brevity
143
Team Working:
What are the RICS Inclusive Employer principles?
(RICS Inclusive Employer Quality Mark 2015)
Striving to move towards a more diverse and inclusive workforce
Note:
Open to all companies, not just surveying
144
Business Planning:
What is our company mission statement?
Make anything up
be a trusted cost partner delivering outstanding Client service
Direction, purpose, behaviour, values, excelling
145
Sustainability:
Why is sustainability important to you (and RICS)?
Finite resources,
ever-growing population,
depletion of natural resources and biodiversity
unsustainable land-use practices,
Note:
RICS committed to
- Promote social equity by ensuring access to services for the benefit of all
- Protect environment through preservation of natural capital
- Support a healthy local economy, including high level employment
146
Communication + Negotiation:
How do you conduct a negotiation in your work?*
(prep + during)
/ How do you negotiate and agree a valuation/ final account?
(interview)
SOE
Prep
- Establish each others objectives
- Know non-negotiable items
- Know bottom line
- competitive or principles based
- collect data, review contract
- Strategise
During
- use agenda
- find areas of compromise - narrow differences
- Record/sign/agree - a clear, firm decision
Notes on the actual process:
- Once formally received, via PM
- Review FA against BQ works complete,
- Request substantiation (if required)
- Negotiate and agree fair/correct value
147
Sustainability:
What's an EPC?
Energy performance certificate
energy rating for consumption and costs
whenever building built, sold or rented
Note:
- Rated A-G and valid for 10 years
- Rated F-G will be unlawful to let from April 2018
- Recommendations
- Excludes temp buildings, worship, less than 50m2, etc
148
Client Care:
What's the difference between 'client care' and 'owing a duty of care' to the client?
SOE "I have duty of care to Client"
Client care - acknowledge client is of prime importance
duty of care - always advise in client's best interest, even if it contradicts his personal view.
149
Business Planning:
Has your firm done anything to protect itself financially regarding corona?
Yes, 10% temp pay cut to all
150
Risk Management:
What does the risk quantification term 'root mean square' mean?
Statistical way to combine estimates for multiple risks into a single value
Calculate contingency allowance
151
Sustainability:
Can you define sustainable construction - what are the three pillars?*
And the fourth?
SOE
S E E (the pillars)
Social, economic and environmental
4th = and cultural
152
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What are management accounts?
internal financial info within the company
153
Team Working:
What's a strategic alliance?
2+ party formal relationship to achieve common goal
Note:
whilst remaining independent
154
Team Working:
Stages of team development?
Forming,
storming,
norming
performing
Notes:
- Belbin team behaviours.
- formation stage, idea storming, normalise and understand goals, then perform
155
Risk Management:
What is Earned Value Analysis?
Calculates value of work done compared to the cost of work done
Note:
- BQ value of work vs. the actual cost of work (delta is profit)
156
Data Management:
Name some sources of internal cost data?
Benchmarks
Pre-contract - cost plans
Post-contract - tender returns
157
Client Care:
Are RICS registered firms required to operate a CHP?
RICS Rules of Conduct for Firms 2020
Rule 7: Have a complaints log and operate a CHP that includes ADR mechanism. Should be dealt with within 28 days
158
Sustainability:
what is Estidama's pearl building rating system, and what are some of the sustainability categories?
applicable in Abu Dhabi
all news buildings to meet Pearl 1 requirements
all gov funded building to meet Pearl 2
```
Note:
7 categories
- Integrated development process,
- natural systems,
- liveable buildings,
- water,
- resourceful energy,
- materials
```
- estidama has 4x pillars - environmental, economic, social and cultural
159
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
Is negotiation a form of ADR?
Depends if there is intervention by neutral 3rd party
160
Risk Management:
Purpose of risk workshops?
How best to manage in pre- and post-contract?
Early identification
- qualitative and quantitative assessments
regular review
- to manage
- to close out
- to identify new
161
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What a gearing ratio and what's the calculation?
low gearing good for borrowing
debt divided by equity
Note:
Solvency ratio
162
Health + Safety:
What regulations may apply to tall building projects?
Working at Height Regulations 2005
163
Sustainability:
What do we mean by sustainable development?*
SOE
Brundtland - Meet needs of present, without compromising ability of future generations to meet theirs
Note:
- remember chronologically, meet today, compromise tomorrow
- environment protection
- resources (prudent use, local source)
164
Communication + Negotiation:
Give an example of rate negotiation I was involved in with a Subcontractor's variation. What steps were taken to ensure Client value?*
External signage VO with proscape.
1 I reviewed their 5 quotes for material supply
2 I estimated from my first principles
3 Later used benchmarking (once received)
4 Agreed a fair rate
Note for IPC's (not VO'S):
Consultants valuation stands for purpose of payment
165
Sustainability:
What are the disadvantages of green roofs?
Capital cost
structural load
Maintenance requirements.
Notes:
- Specialist contractors required.
166
Team Working:
What is unconscious bias?
e.g. for recruitment and promotions
unconsciously favouring on gender, race
Note:
Control methods - record reasons for your decisions, diversity team
167
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
What's the purpose of ADR?
Steps before to prevent litigation
Note:
- negotiation (if there is intervention by neutral 3rd party)
- mediation/ conciliation, (or DAAB for UAE)
- arbitration
168
Communication + Negotiation:
What are the types of negotiation, according to RICS?*
According to conflict avoidance guidance note there are two types according to RICS
Competitive
- offer low, aiming for low or mid-ground
Principles based
- focus on problem not people
- for the benefit of the project
- Develop a common ground
```
Note:
The theoretical one which may be asked
- Collaborating: win/win
- Compromising: win some/lose some
- Accommodating: lose/win
- Competing: win/lose
- Avoiding: no winners/no losers
```
169
Risk Management:
NRM1 - name the 5x responses strategies?*
SOE
```
S T A R R
Share,
transfer - to most appropriate party, insure
avoid,
reduce - redesign, develop design
retain - by Employer
```
Notes:
Risk owner is accountable should that risk occur
170
Team Working:
What are/ defintion of inclusive environments?
equal access to opportunities
re age, disability, ethnicity, gender, faith, economic circumstance
171
Business Planning:
Provide 3 examples each for short term, and long term goals?
Short
- People/ employees
- Client relations
- Quarterly turnover
Long
- New markets
- New Clients
- Increase shareholder value
172
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What's a statement of financial position?
Financial position (balance sheet)
shows company assets and liabilities at any given point in time
173
Health + Safety:
Keep H+S records for how long?
forever, for long term illnesses such as Asbestosis
174
Client Care:
What is, and how to maintain Client care?
Put Client first
Maintain through good service and accountability such as KPI's and CHP
175
Client Care:
What is included within the Complaints Log?
Date + location
Complaint details
Actions taken
Close out/resolution date
176
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
How does a company report past, present and future performance?
Past - P+L accounts
Present - Balance sheet
Future - Cash flow
177
Risk Management:
Elements and cost assessment of risk register?*
/ What is Simple method of assessment method
for calculating a risk allowance on a project?
SOE
Identify - Risk description,
Assess -
likelihood x severity = probability
probability x cost (min, max, most likely)
manage - who owns the risk
Contingency is total sum of priced risks
QS notes:
- Price each risk = 'risk value' (min, max, likely)
- Contingency is total sum of priced risks
178
Sustainability:
OZ sustainable features - name some of these?
SOE "sustainable features on OZ"
Efficient facade glazing
district cooling
solar hot water
179
Sustainability:
What is LEED acronym? What country is it from?
SOE
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
USA
Notes:
- OZ is Gold v3
- Int'l green building certification scheme
- Platinum (80 points), Gold (60-79), Silver (50-59) and Certified (40-49)
180
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
Administration vs. liquidation?
Administration - can try to trade out of situation, if not, then close and sell off assets
Liquidation - closing a company and selling the assets
181
Sustainability:
What's the ISO 14001 Environmental Management about?
Guidance on energy and waste:
Energy - natural light, energy efficient appliances, and cycle storage
waste - recycled materials, construction waste, segregation, accredited supply chain
```
Note:
Advantages
- Consumption savings
- Improved corporate image
- Lower distribution costs
- Reduced cost of waste management
```
182
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
Your companies turnover and profit?
Confidential in the UAE, not publicly listed
183
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
What's Arbitration?
Judicial determination by independent third party
internationally recognised binding decision, longer process
Private
form of ADR
184
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
| What's the current ratio calculation?
interview
current assets
divided by
current liabilities
Note:
If 2+ than cause for concern to repay
185
Risk Management:
What's a Tender return risk profiling exercise?
identifying risky Tenderers from their
- financials,
- performance,
- capabilities
186
Client Care:
If the Client gives you a lump sum fee, what next?
Place in a separate "Client" account and agree a drawdown, provide periodic account statements
187
Risk Management:
RICS guidance note is called?
And what does it advise on roughly?
Management of Risk 2015
Notes:
- L1 Key principles, response/ mitigation strategies, procurement routes, quantification techniques
- L2 Identification, ownership
- Also NRM1 is helpful
188
Data Management:
Difference between GDPR and Data Protection Act?
UK based - Data Protection Act
EU based - General Data Protection Regulations
189
Data Management:
What is Building Maintenance Index (BMI)?
FM benchmark costs
Note:
I guess for different asset types - cost for school, hospital, theatre
190
Health + Safety:
What does RIDDOR 2013 stand for?
SOE
Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013
191
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What's a profitability ratio show?
Profit in relation to turnover
192
Risk Management:
Aside from lump sum, what other contract types offer cost assurance?
GMP
193
Data Management:
Can you provide a construction based example of 'Big data'?
Aecom Global Unite
Site biometrics for labour welfare
Others:
Hazard identification based on passed accidents/ near misses
194
Sustainability:
How do you calculate recycled material content (with ref to 5% recycled material for DGBR compliance)?
SOE "OZ complies with DGBR"
Calculated by Engineer
Note:
to comply with DGBR
195
Business Planning:
What is a departmental business plan?
Focused on specific department within a company (e.g. Arch, QS, etc)
Departmental goals, needs, individual staff metrics
196
Health + Safety:
What does the Contractor's legal register provide info on?
SOE
170 best practice Dubai Regulations, such as
- law
- the Dubai Code of Practice
- Dubai Municipality public health and safety standards
- and other local orders
This legal register exceed local min standards - for e.g. UK standards for cranes and scaffolding
197
Client Care:
How do you confirm that your Client is satisfied with your service?
Periodic performance - feedback request
KPI's on cost plan accuracy, meeting deliverables
No complaints either informal or formal on CHP
198
Risk Management:
What is Earned Value Management?
PM tool for measuring project performance
- planned progress vs. actual progress curves.
Note:
Monitoring progress RICS isurv..
"a sophisticated version of the planned progress monitoring technique, utilising planned and actual progress curves. As well as measuring and comparing the work planned with the work carried out, it also utilises measures of budgeted costs and actual costs.
```
The measures used in EVM are:
• the planned value of work over time (the agreed
programme and cost plan)
• the earned value of work completed
• the actual cost of work completed
```
199
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
How many negative quarters is considered a recession?
2
200
Business Planning:
What is an organisation structure?
e.g. we have for each project, who leads, who assists, etc
201
Health + Safety:
What are the DM Codes of Practice for?
SOE
For carrying out/constructing the works safely - PPE, demolition, electrical hazards
Note:
- H+S and best practice
- Based on mix of UK, US and Europe best practice
202
Business Planning:
How do you feel your role contributes to achievement of organisations objectives?
Excellent level of service
```
Notes:
Consider our objectives:
- Diversify/ expand Client base
- Expand into new GCC markets such as KSA, Bahrain + UK
- Expand services, such as claims
```
Trying to get MRICS
203
Team Working:
describe what i think makes for good team characteristics?
SOE
5-8 members (to balance large workload with individual performance)
Varying abilities
Well managed
Notes
- Integration, collaborative culture, cohesiveness
- Pro-active, co-operative effort towards common goal
- Respect and appreciation of others
- gender balance
204
Risk Management:
Tell me about some risks on OZ?
Lifting link bridge
7 storey basement excavation
Coronavirus - masks, thermal scanning
Generic projects:
- Ground conditions
- Tree protection orders
- Incomplete design
205
Business Planning:
How do you help to implement my company business plan?
Perform well, look after Client
Discuss career development with line manager
Trying MRICS to help win new projects
206
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
Typical ADR stages in UAE?*
SOE
[Written notice <28 days of becoming aware]
Negotiation (if there is intervention by neutral 3rd party)
mediate/conciliate
DAAB (for binding expert decision FIDIC)
Arbitration
Note:
- first and foremost ADR and dispute resolution, as set out in contract
- Cl. 20 Claims, disputes and arbitration
207
Business Planning:
What was discussed at Aecom Dubai Staff Gatherings?
SOE
Project updates,
milestones,
goals
208
Business Planning:
What are competitor profiles?
Analysis of competitors
Identify their successes, replicate if applicable
209
Client Care:
Guidance note - Complaints Handing 2016 provides info on?
Rule 7 All firms must operate one
Stage 1 - internal senior review of complaint, 28 days
Stage 2 - 12m redress mechanism such as ADR provider approved by S+RB (or Ombudsman in UK) - we use Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) as regulatory provider
210
Risk Management:
How best to manage in early stages pre-contract?
Procurement route - distributes risk ownership to different parties
Design out risks (if poss)
Notes:
Best managed early in design stages/ design out, rather than in construction or handover and operation
211
Sustainability:
How is a tenderer to know our project is complying with DGBR and LEED Gold?
SOE "OZ complies with DGBR"
"Tenderers issued DGBR and LEED docs in Tender Docs" - Specification (Division 1 Gen Reqs)
SOE
212
Client Care:
When should the Client be made aware of firms CHP?
In the terms of engagement
213
Sustainability:
What's a fabric first design approach?
max performance of components and materials
before considering use of MEP systems.
214
Sustainability:
Name some sustainable construction practices?
Not the definition e.g. social, economic, environmental and cultural
Not features e.g. solar
Brownfield regeneration
OSM/Prefab (materials efficiency)
Waste management (segregation)
215
Risk Management:
How to score/rate a risk?
Likelihood 1-5
x severity 1-5
= risk rating 1-25
216
Risk Management:
You're lay-client is an experienced developer. They are happy to accept project risk. what procurement route would you advise?
Construction management
Note:
- Contractor in advisory role
- Client direct contract with subbies
217
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What is a financial auditor?
Verify the accountants work is accurate
Note:
UK exemption for companies with turnover less £10.2m/ balance sheet less than £5.1m/ less than 50 employees
218
Risk Management:
What are some of the 6 step risk management process?
2 Identify
3 Assess - likelihood and severity rating
4 Prioritise - most significant
5 Respond - by implementing S T A R R
6 Monitor
Note:
1 Initiate - defining project and context
219
Health + Safety:
Name two UK H+S laws/acts?
H+S at work act 1974
Management of H+S at work regulations 1992
220
Team Working:
when have I worked within a well functioning team?
e.g. we drew on a pool of QS resources to meet deadlines
SOE
Aecom residential pre-contract
221
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What is insolvency?*
SOE
state of economic distress
Inability to pay debts/ cash flow issues
Forewarning that may intend to file for bankruptcy
Note:
2 forms of
- cash flow insolvency - inability to pay debts due
- balance sheet insolvency - negative net assets, debts exceed assets
- You can be insolvent without being bankrupt, but you can’t be bankrupt without being insolvent
222
Sustainability:
LEED v4 - what categories are projects assessed against?
SOE
Indoor air quality
Water efficiency.
Energy and atmosphere.
Materials and resources.
Notes:
- Sustainable sites
- Locations and linkages (relating to transport and access to open space).
- Awareness and education.
- Innovation in design.
- Regional priority
223
Sustainability:
What's embodied carbon/ embodied energy?
Sum of all energy required to produce any goods or services
Note:
- e.g. energy used in factory to produce tile, fuel to transport, etc
224
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
What's adjudication?
quick binding decision in 28 days
Note:
not in UAE,
225
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
When receive audited accounts from Tenderers, how did I assess these?*
I didn't, not in scope of services
Also MC responsibility as part of prequal
Note:
PM also has third party accountant - Deloitte
226
Risk Management:
What is the delphi technique?
questionnaires - a risk forecasting process based on results of multiple rounds of questionnaires sent to a panel of experts
227
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
Purpose of three years audited profit and loss accounts?
Employer security - can highlight financial issue and highlight risky Contractors
228
Health + Safety:
What changes has Covid-19 bought about on site?
Temperature checks on site and office.
Restrictions on outside visitors.
Social distancing and canteen avoidance
229
Sustainability:
What should you consideration prior to installing solar panels?
Can the roof support the weight?
Can FM clean the panels to optimise performance?
Note:
Technical, but sunlight angle
230
Risk Management:
What's the name of the computer generated simulation used to model outcomes?
Monte Carlo simulation
Note:
A type of probabilistic risk analysis
231
Risk Management:
At a risk workshop, what identification techniques may be used?
Brainstorming
Lessons learned from previous projects
Cause and effect diagrams
Note:
- Historical information
- Industry knowledge base
- List of assumptions and constraints
232
Health + Safety:
What does COSHH 2012 stand for?
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2012
233
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What are financial accounts?
external financial info outside the company.
Required by law by standards such as FRS102
234
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What is debtor?
A borrower, e.g. receiver from a loan
Note:
- A debtor is also where client has not yet paid you for service, ends once invoice paid
- A creditor, is the lender
235
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
How to avoid disputes in the first instance?
SOE
Refer to RICS Conflict Avoidance Processes
- Clear contract docs
- Good management
- Good payment practice
- Record keeping
- Proactive PM
236
Sustainability:
What does ESOS stand for?
Energy saving opportunities scheme regulation
Note
For large businesses - Euro 50m turnover
237
Data Management:
Keep data for how long?
SOE
6y Underhand - simple contract
12 as a Deed - specialist contract
From Final Payment Certificate (assumed)
238
Risk Management:
What are qualitative risk analysis methods?
Descriptive - e.g. very low to very high
Note:
- without allocating a number to it
- For ordering and prioritising e.g. a matrix of likelihood and impact
239
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What's a Profit and loss account?*
SOE
Historic (e.g. last 3 years)
Shows income and expenditure for a project/ company
Note:
- Similar to a Balance Sheet but over a period of time, e.g. financial year
- Helps to justify a companies valuation
- helps Provide assurance against default for Clients and Contractors
240
Sustainability:
What's 'The Futures Report 2020'?
RICS report on change in attitudes on sustainability, worldwide.
explores sustainable solutions - e.g. building roads with recycled plastic
241
Data Management:
If you want to dispose of data, what to check for first?
Is it original contract/legal doc
Required for disputes/ litigation
Relate to current project
Outstanding fee on project
Who owns e.g. Client
242
Sustainability:
What's a Building Management Systems (BMS)?
MEP intelligence
Can save of energy consumption e.g. knowing to heat certain parts of the building at certain times
243
Risk Management:
Ideally, what should happen to a risk allowance as the project progresses (NRM1)?
Decrease as reduction in uncertainty
Note:
Successive assessments are to show decreasing risk due to reducing uncertainty as a consequence
of the increasing definition of the project itself and decreasing uncertainty as a result of decisions
which are made as the project progresses. However, it should be noted that risk does not always
decrease
244
Client Care:
Example of when I have given excellent Client care?
I attend the final negotiation meetings and am on hand to advise of adjustments, etc (SOE)
Note:
- Explaining Apdx A adjustments face-to-face (Link1+2)
- The Client regularly approaches me for queries of a colleagues work, I always assist
245
Accounting Principles + Procedures:
What's a definition of liquidity?
Ability to meet current obligations from assets
246
Risk Management:
What's a P80 risk allowance mean?
Common to report on an 80% confidence level
247
Health + Safety:
What is OSHAD?
Occupational Safety and Health [Abu Dhabi]
248
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
First step you should attempt in dispute resolution?
Negotiation
Note:
- cheap,
- effective,
- informal
249
Data Management:
What are some of the 7 principles of GDPR?
Accountability
Accuracy
Lawfulness, fairness and transparency
Notes:
- Purpose limitation
- Data minimisation
- Storage limitation
- Integrity and confidentiality (security)
250
Risk Management:
What is meant by the term residual/retained risk?
risks retained by employer
rather than paying contractor to take the risk on
Notes:
- unexpected expenditure from risks that materialise
- According to NRM2
251
Conflict Avoidance, Mgmt + Dispute Res Procedures:
Three Pillars of Dispute Resolution?*
N M Adj
- Negotiation
- mediation/conciliation (3rd party)
- adjudication (3rd party binding)
252
Client Care:
KPI's for our firm on OZ?
No,
Client is new formation, we anticipate they will follow Emr model soon as both under same parent co.
```
Note:
KPI's include
- Cost plan +/- 10%
- Penalty of 0.02% of fee for each day of delay
- Client satisfaction survey
```
253
Risk Management:
How to calculate a project contingency?
Price the risk register.
Historically was percentage driven e.g. 10%
