Analysis of Construction Cost Data Management Systems in Large Nigerian Consulting Firms

Robust cost data management systems are critical to the professional quality and business competitiveness of quantity surveying consulting firms. This study analyses the construction cost data management systems used by large Nigerian consulting firms operating in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. A purposive sample of 20 large firms was drawn, with 85 senior quantity surveyors and information technology managers completing structured questionnaires and participating in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings show that most large Nigerian consulting firms maintain proprietary cost databases developed informally over time, with limited standardisation, irregular updating, and poor integration with project management software. Only 30% of firms employ dedicated data management personnel, and fewer than 25% have formal cost data governance policies. The absence of a national construction cost data sharing framework inhibits industry-wide benchmarking. Firms with more sophisticated cost data systems demonstrate measurably higher accuracy in preliminary cost estimating, reduced rework on bills of quantities, and stronger tender analysis capabilities. Recommendations include the development of an industry-wide cost data management standard by NIQS, investment in cloud-based cost management platforms, and inter-firm data sharing agreements under professional governance frameworks. This research contributes to construction information management practice in Nigeria. Keywords: cost data management, consulting firms, construction, Nigeria, information systems