FIG Position Papers

FIG position papers are papers and articles from FIG commissions, networks, task forces, etc. on specific topics.

Content

• FIG commissions
  • Commission 2 - Professional Education
  • Commission 9 - Valuation and the Management of Real Estate
  • Commission 10 - Construction Economics and Management
• FIG tasks forces
  • FIG task force - Evolutionary Diversity and Inclusion

Position papers from FIG commissions

FIG Commission 2 Professional Education and 7 Cadastre and Land Management

Teaching Essentials for Responsible Land Administration: Considerations for future education and training

The postion paper is written by by Simon Hull, Menare Royal Mabakeng, Didier Milindi Rugema, Grazyna Wiejak-Roy, Rosalie Kingwill and Eugene Uchendu Chigbu with foreword by Dimo Todorovski and Rohan Bennett, Chairs of FIG Commissions 2 and 7 respectively.

The Teaching Essentials for Responsible Land Administration (TERLA) developed between 2015 and 2018 under the patronage of the Global Land Tools Network (GLTN). TERLA addressed the challenge of teaching the daunting and complex domain of land governance at a country-level. This publication looks back on the foundation work, unpacking lessons with its application to case forward. Representing the joint efforts of Commissions 2 and 7, this paper recognizes the need to adapt TERLA to the evolving demands of professional education in land administration.

• Read the paper (pdf)
• Article of the Month - March 2025

Published March 2025

FIG Commission 9 Valuation and the Management of Real Estate

Viewpoint on Transparency in Real Estate Markets

The position paper is written by Chair of the commission Peter Ache with Grazyna Wiejak-Roy, James Kavanagh, Eva Katharina Korinke, Bastiaan Reydon. 
The paper provides an excellent basis for clearly and definitively defining and measuring the concept of "transparency in the real estate market," as is fitting for geodesists.

• Paper in PDF 
• Article of the month - November 2024

Published November 2024

Commission 10 Construction Economics and Management

Digital Transformation in Quantity Surveying: Paving the Way for Smart Cities and Professional Evolution

The position paper is written by Asst. Professor Ts. Sr. Dr. Nadzirah Hj. Zainordin, Head of Research & Postgraduates Studies, and Ts. Sr. Khoo Sui Lai, Head of Department Quantity Surveying at UCSI University, KL Campus, Malaysia.

The paper explains the role of Quantity Surveyors in the era of Digital Construction. The integration of digital tools into the field of Quantity Surveying (QS) is revolutionizing the way professionals approach construction projects. These advanced technologies are enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and overall decision-making process in the construction and infrastructure sectors. As quantity surveyors embrace digital innovation, they are able to work smarter, deliver more precise outcomes, and ensure the success of projects from inception to completion. Technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), drones, 3D scanning, Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and cloud-based project management are transforming the practice of quantity surveying.

• Read the paper (pdf)
• Article of the Month - May 2025

Published May 2025 

Position papers from FIG task forces

FIG Task Force on Evolutionary Diversity and Inclusion

Coordinates of Inclusion in Surveying and Geospatial: Perspectives Across the Profession 

The paper presents “coordinates of inclusion” as a metaphor for how the surveying and geospatial profession positions people within its professional landscape. It argues that inclusion is a strategic necessity for innovation, sustainability, and relevance, built on the interconnected principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Despite progress, persistent barriers such as gender inequality, cultural expectations, and institutional biases continue to limit participation and representation, particularly for women and underrepresented groups.

Drawing on his personal professional journey, Surv. Stephen Djaba highlights the transformative role of mentorship, collaboration, and inclusive leadership. The paper emphasizes that inclusive representation strengthens innovation, public trust, and global relevance, and calls on young surveyors to build a people-centred profession by promoting equitable participation, celebrating diverse role models, and using geospatial tools to help identify and address social inequalities.

• Read the paper (pdf)

Published December 2025