RLB in Hong Kong announced the transformation of its Estimating and Research Department into the new Cost Intelligence & Research Department, underscoring the firm’s commitment to providing strategic, data-driven advisory services to clients across the construction and real estate sectors.
The move reflects the evolving needs of the real estate industry, where clients increasingly require more than accurate cost estimates. They seek deeper insights into market conditions, project risks, cost drivers, procurement strategies, productivity trends and emerging technologies to support development and investment decisions.
Anderson Chan, Managing Director of RLB North Asia, said:
“The establishment of our Cost Intelligence & Research Department reflects our vision to transform cost data, industry knowledge, and research into actionable intelligence that creates value for our clients and stakeholders. Our ambition is not simply to estimate costs, but to provide the intelligence behind the numbers.”
The new department brings together three core areas of expertise:
- Cost Estimating & Advisory
Feasibility studies, cost planning, benchmarking, due diligence reviews, and strategic cost advice throughout the project lifecycle.
- Research & Thought Leadership
Industry research, market intelligence, analytical frameworks, and evidence-based insights that support informed decision-making.
- Innovation, Data Analytics & AI Applications
Predictive modelling, benchmarking systems, digital tools, and AI-enabled solutions that enhance the quality and value of advisory services.
By integrating these capabilities, the department will support clients from early-stage feasibility and investment decisions through procurement, project delivery and long-term asset planning.
According to Anderson, the transformation positions RLB to respond more effectively to growing demand for strategic insights in an increasingly complex market.
“As clients face increasing uncertainty and complexity, access to reliable cost intelligence has become a critical advantage. By combining our estimating expertise with research, analytics, and innovation, we can help clients identify opportunities, manage risks and make more confident decisions throughout the lifecycle of their investments.”
The enhanced capabilities will provide clients with:
- Better-informed development and investment decisions
- Greater visibility of cost risks and opportunities
- Access to independent research and market intelligence
- More robust forecasting and scenario analysis
- Innovative, technology-enabled advisory solutions
The launch of the Cost Intelligence & Research Department reinforces RLB’s commitment to helping clients make more informed decisions, navigate uncertainty, and unlock greater value through actionable insights.
As the built environment continues to evolve, RLB remains committed to providing not only the numbers, but the intelligence behind them. We look forward to partnering with clients, industry partners and stakeholders to deliver deeper insights, stronger decisions and better outcomes.
Cost Intelligence. Better Decisions. Stronger Outcomes.
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