Richard Steer’s point that low bids are giving the QS industry a bad name is absolutely on the mark (13 November, page 34) – and if we’re not careful, what we’ll see eventually is death by a thousand cuts. However, the larger consultancy firms such as the big six or seven are just as guilty as smaller firms of this cost cutting

Although clients have an absolute right to ensure they receive value for money from their consultants, I have always held the view that fee competition without other checks and balances is an advanced form of lunacy. 

The current dash for work by some firms and acceptance by certain clients is a slippery slope that will almost certainly end in tears and in a fresh round of consultant bashing.

I believe that professional institutions such as the RICS should work with employers and redesign fee scales to become more reflective of the real world. That way, consultants will have to compete on experience, track record and properly resourced bids that will ensure our clients receive a great service and want to come back for more.

Steven Barker, senior partner, Robinson Low Francis

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