Provides clear and comprehensive guidance to embedding total value across construction projects for sustainable societal impact
The construction industry is uniquely positioned to shape the social, economic, and environmental fabric of society. As scrutiny of large-scale projects intensifies, traditional measures of success such as cost, time, and quality are no longer sufficient. Increasingly, organisations are judged by the total value they deliver, which includes social, ethical, economic, sustainable, and reputational outcomes. Achieving Total Value in the Built Environment responds directly to this shift, offering a structured and accessible introduction to the evolving concept of total value and its significance in practice.
Divided into four parts, the book moves from strategy through to delivery and future challenges―describing how to design and procure for value, contract and measure outcomes, and communicate achievements effectively. Case studies illustrate real-world application, showing how value can be embedded across all project stages, whilst forward-looking chapters examine the role of technology, modern construction methods, and industry expectations yet to come. By weaving together theory, policy, and practice, the authors provide built environment professionals, students, and academics with the tools to understand, apply, and advocate for value-led approaches in their work.
Highlighting not just why value matters, but also how it can be practically realised on every project, Achieving Total Value in the Built Environment:
- Explains the concept of total value and how it extends beyond social value
- Examines legislative and policy contexts, including the Public Services (Social Value) Act
- Provides a structured framework for embedding value at every project stage
- Emphasises the role of technology and modern methods of construction in value creation
- Offers insights into leadership and organisational responsibilities in delivering value
Bridging theory and practice for both academic and professional audiences, Achieving Total Value in the Built Environment is ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate students in built environment disciplines, particularly those studying construction management, quantity surveying, and project management. It also serves as an essential reference for industry professionals, policy advisors, and leaders seeking to embed value-based approaches within construction projects.
Greg Watts is a Reader in Construction Management at Manchester Metropolitan University. With extensive experience in social value research and delivery, and wider business responsibility, Greg has contributed to BSI 8950 guidance and published widely across leading journals and textbooks. Prior to academia, Greg worked as a Senior Quantity Surveyor for major contractors, bringing both scholarly and industry perspectives to his writing.
Jason Challender is a Senior Lecturer of Building Surveying and Chair of the Property Industry Liaison Panel at Liverpool John Moores University. A Fellow and Board Director of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, he also serves as Visiting Professor and Advisory Board Chair at the University of Bolton. Challender has spoken at national and international conferences and brings practical leadership experience to his analysis of value in construction.
