The Ethical Decision-Making Practices among Malaysian Consultant Quantity Surveyor

Abstract

Ethical decision-making refers to the process of evaluating and choosing among alternatives in a manner consistent with ethical principles. Ethical decision-making (EDM) expertise is required for consultant quantity surveyors (CQSs) to perform their duties effectively and to protect the client's interests in the construction project. Therefore, as professionals in the construction industry, the CQSs must develop strategies to prevent corrupt practices when dealing with EDM. Thus, this study aimed to investigate ethical decision-making among Malaysian consultant quantity surveyors. Therefore, a qualitative research methodology was selected to gain more detailed and valid descriptions of the EDM phenomenon, through in-depth interviews. Results showed that several issues and parties are responsible for unethical experiences. Findings indicate that CQSs learn through experiential learning and become experts with EDM in professional practice when they intuitively make ethical decisions.