The influence of estimators' competencies on cost estimation performance: teamwork processes as a mediator

Accurate cost estimation during the tendering stage is essential for the successful planning and execution of construction projects. Although previous studies have examined various strategies and factors influencing cost estimation, limited research has addressed how these factors function collectively at the operational level, particularly in team dynamics. This study adopts the Input-Process-Output (I-P-O) Model to explore the relationship between estimator competencies (EC) as the input, teamwork processes as the process, and cost estimation performance (CEP) as the output, with competencies framed around the knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSA) framework. A quantitative survey was conducted among professionals involved in construction tendering to identify and validate internal factors that influence cost estimation accuracy, including quality, time, and errors. The analysis confirmed that all identified factors significantly contribute to cost estimation performance. Human related factors, such as individual knowledge, skills, and attitude, were perceived as more critical than organizational support systems. This finding raises important questions about how effectively estimators collaborate and perform within team environments to deliver accurate estimates within tight tender deadlines. The study applies teamwork effectiveness theory to better understand this dynamic, highlighting the importance of role clarity, coordination, and alignment between individual contributions and organisational expectations. The mediation analysis confirmed that teamwork processes significantly translate individual competencies into improved cost estimation performance outcomes. By integrating the I-P-O Model, this research advances current understanding through a combined competency-based and team-based approach to cost estimation, offering both theoretical contributions and practical implications for enhancing the performance of construction tendering teams.