Book Review
Woodrow, H. Tales of Victoria Street: the story of the Association of Consulting Engineers. London: ACE, 2003, ISBN 0-903397-09-9, £19.99
This story had never been researched and described in such detail until this book was written by Hugh Woodrow, who served as the ACE's Chief Executive from 1987 until 1998. This excellent read covers the period from the time of the formation in the years 1908-1913 to the present day.
The protracted formation over five years was the result of the reservations of the institutions who saw the creation of this new body as a threat to their authority. However those reservations were eventually overcome and the new body was established.
Many of us understand the value of knowing what transpired in the past when planning future activities. To that end this unique study of the development of multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy on the international stage makes a valuable contribution to the understanding of how the ACE in general and consultancy practice in particular developed over the years.
The book contains 119 pages that are divided into 10 chapters covering a wide range of topics relevant to the development of a small group of UK based consultants in the early 20th Century to the substantial and highly respected association it has become.
During the period 1980-2000 it was recognised that there was a need to address market place practices and ethics, contractual relationships, model documents and best practice. Chapter 6 deals with the difficult areas of liability insurance and the law.
This book is an important study of the development of engineering consultancy practice, and will be a valuable reference for all consultants especially young readers.
Peter Campbell |
