International Trade in Services.pdf - DSpace at Khazar University

Engineering Services: How to Compete in the Most Global of the Professions 297
Figure 9.1. Top 500 Engineering Design Firms by Revenue and Type of
Work, 2008
building
transportation
petroleum
hazardous waste
power
sewerage/waste
water
industrial
manufacturing
telecommunications
other
Source: Tulacz (2008).
0
5 10 15 20
US$, billions
abroad. Engineering firms also visit clients in their home markets to provide services
(see box 9.2 for an overview).
Leading engineering firms provide integrated service packages to a broad
range of clients, often using advanced technology (see table 9.2 for a list of leading
firms). Joint ventures and partnership agreements are particularly common
delivery platforms in developing countries. Leaders partner with local companies
to leverage their expertise, skills, and connections. Engineering firms in developing
countries use their commercial relationships with larger firms to take advantage
of the global presence of the larger firms. Firms in developing countries also
adopt international quality standards to position themselves advantageously
relative to competitors. The international market for engineering services is large
and employs a considerable number of qualified engineers and professionals.
Several developing countries with adequate training capacity have been successful
in creating a thriving engineering service sector based on exports to foreign
markets.
Statistical accounts often treat engineering services and construction as distinct
sectors. However, in the marketplace, many firms provide integrated packages
to meet the demands of their clients. For example, CH2M Hill, an employeeowned
professional engineering service firm, offers industrial engineering
services in conjunction with construction, operations, project management, and