RICS Matrics Surveyors – The Voice of the Industry

The surveying industry is in the midst of a significant transformation, driven by technology and a new generation of passionate professionals. Jim Brown and Alex Carter were both recently shortlisted for The RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards. Proudly sponsored by GoReport, it celebrates the innovation and hard work of emerging professionals in the surveying industry.

Both directors in their respective companies, Jim and Alex recently shared their experiences and visions for the future of the field. Their journeys, although distinct, intersect in their commitment to embracing innovation and shaping the industry.

Discovering a passion for surveying

For Jim Brown, Director at FJ Brown, the journey into surveying began with a newspaper advertisement for a trainee building surveyor position. Coming from a farming background, he found the idea of working outdoors appealing. “The employer asked, ‘Will you be happy to be outside five days a week in all weathers?’ and that was enough to convince me,” Jim recalls. This simple question set him on a path away from farming and into the world of surveying.

Alex Carter, Director at Lantern Building Consultancy, found his calling during his early education. While studying a Built Environment course, he realised that hands-on trades weren’t his strong suit. A pivotal moment came when his teacher introduced him to the concept of floor plans and their importance in construction. “It was from this discussion that I pursued a role as a professional within the industry,” Alex explains, marking the beginning of his journey as a Building Surveyor.

Technological transformation

Both Jim and Alex have witnessed the profound impact of technology and digitisation on surveying. Jim describes a project where technology played a crucial role: “I am currently working on a 10-storey hotel refurb where every single spandrel panel is geo-tagged and uploaded to a site-specific system.” This system allows for remote inspection, streamlining the process and ensuring precision. Furthermore, Jim points out that, “GoReport has made our working practice more efficient in terms of automating our bespoke report templates.” For Jim, these advancements signify a new era in the industry.

Similarly, Alex highlights the increased use of drone technology for roof and high-level inspections. “The use of drone technology has enabled us to work much more efficiently,” he notes. Additionally, he points out the positive client response when findings are presented digitally, such as through interactive dashboards. These innovations have encouraged Alex to continually seek new ways to present data, ensuring his work remains at the forefront of technological advancements.

Looking to the future

As the industry evolves, both surveyors see exciting opportunities ahead. The implementation of the Building Safety Act and the introduction of the Building Safety Regulator have changed the landscape. While the reduction in surveyors in statutory positions poses challenges, Jim sees this as a unique opportunity. “This could be seen as a threat to the industry but also presents opportunities to enthusiastic, diligent surveyors and inspectors moving forward,” he says.

For Alex, the future holds the promise of even more groundbreaking innovations. He is particularly interested in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies to assist with survey data capture. “The possibilities are endless for the use of innovative technology,” Alex states, expressing his eagerness to explore these new frontiers.
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These stories reflect the dynamic nature of the surveying industry, and as forward-thinking surveying professionals, they are not only adapting to the rapid changes brought about by technology but are also actively contributing to the industry’s evolution. Their shared commitment to innovation and their unique paths into the field highlight the diverse ways in which the next generation is shaping the future of surveying.

GoReport proudly supports the future of surveying and the professionals that are leading the charge. We wish all the shortlisted professionals the very best of luck.