Quantity Surveying Softwares, Trends &

Their Impact on Quantity Surveyors

Individual Project

To: Mr. Gamini Rajakaruna

Department: NG/HNDQS/04/28

Submission Date: 18th.February.2015

Name: Udara Madusanka

 Individual Project

Acknowledgement

I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all those who provided me the possibility
to complete this research. A special gratitude I give to Quantity Surveyor Mr. Ekanayake,
whose contribution in simulating suggestions and encouragement, helped me to do gather
information in related research.

I take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude and deep regards to my guide Mr.
Gamini Rajakaruna for his exemplary guidance, monitoring and constant encouragement
throughout the research.

Furthermore I would also like to acknowledge with much appreciation for my parents and
friends who helped me to do this assignment by simulating suggestions. Last but not least,
many thanks go to Course Co- Coordinator, Mr. Madushan who given much guidance in this
research. Thank you very much.

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Table of Contents

Acknowledgement…………………………………………………………………………………….01

List of abbreviations………………………………………………………………………………….03
List of illustrations………………………………………………………….……………………...…04
Executive Summary…………………...……………………..…………..…………………………...05
1.0 Introduction…...……………………..……………..………………………………………..…06
2.0 Chapter One: Introduction of Quantity Surveying Softwares…………..…………………...…07
3.0 Chapter Two: Usability of Quantity Surveying Softwares……………..……………..……..…17
4.0 Chapter Three: Impact on Quantity Surveyor Profession from Quantity Surveying Software...36
5.0 Chapter Four: Trends in Quantity Surveying Softwares……………...…………..…………….43
6.0 Chapter Five: Newer ideas and suggestions in Quantity Surveying Softwares……….……..…46
Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………………………….…..49
References…………………………………………………………………….………………………50
APPENDIX-A………………………………………………………………………………………..

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List of abbreviations

I. QS- Quantity Surveyor

II. BIM- Building Information Modeling
III. CAD- Computer Aided Designing
IV. QTO- Quantity Takeoff
V. MS- Microsoft

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List of illustrations

Figure 1: Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors Group’s cover ............................................................................ 7

Figure 2: Survey 01 Results ...................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 3: BIM Life Cycle throughout a project .......................................................................................... 9
Figure 4: MS Excel Logo ......................................................................................................................... 10
Figure 5: WinQS Logo ............................................................................................................................ 11
Figure 6: QSPlus Logo ............................................................................................................................ 12
Figure 7: AutoCAD Logo ......................................................................................................................... 13
Figure 8: SketchUp Logo ........................................................................................................................ 14
Figure 9: Autodesk Quantity Takeoff Logo ............................................................................................. 15
Figure 10: WinQS Interface .................................................................................................................... 21
Figure 11: Example Bill........................................................................................................................... 22
Figure 12: QSPlus Interface .................................................................................................................... 24
Figure 13: Quantity Takeoff (QTO) Logo ................................................................................................. 28
Figure 14: SketchUp Logo ...................................................................................................................... 30
Figure 15: AutoCAD Interface ................................................................................................................ 32
Figure 16: Bill of Quantities produced by MS Excel................................................................................. 17
Figure 17: Bill of Quantities produced by MS Excel................................................................................. 17
Figure 18: Summary Sheets produced by MS Excel ................................................................................ 18
Figure 19: Measurement Sheets produced by MS Excel ......................................................................... 18
Figure 20: BIM (Building Information Modeling) Interface ..................................................................... 34
Figure 21: Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors Group's Cover photo .............................................................. 36
Figure 22: Survey No. 01- BIM ............................................................................................................... 36
Figure 23: I'm Quantity Surveyor, I have no life Group's Cover Photo ..................................................... 37
Figure 24: Survey No. 02 - BIM............................................................................................................... 37
Figure 25: Survey 01 Results .................................................................................................................. 38
Figure 26: QSI LinkedIn Group's Cover Photo ......................................................................................... 39
Figure 27: Discussion No. 01 .................................................................................................................. 39
Figure 28: Professional Quantity Surveying LinkedIn Group's Cover photo ............................................. 40
Figure 29: Discussion No. 02 .................................................................................................................. 40
Figure 30: BIM 360 GLUE Logo ............................................................................................................... 44
Figure 31: BIM 360 GLUE Software on ipad ............................................................................................ 44
Figure 32: BIM 360 Field Logo ................................................................................................................ 44
Figure 33: BIM 360 Field Software on ipad ............................................................................................. 45
Figure 34: AutoCAD 360 Software availabale on Google Play Figure 35: AutoCAD 360 software
on ipad .................................................................................................................................................. 45
Figure 36: IQSSL Website Interface ........................................................................................................ 46
Figure 37: Vision and Mission Statements of IQSSL ................................................................................ 46
Figure 38: QS Android Softwares ........................................................................................................... 47

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Executive Summary

This Research Project would widely discuss about Quantity Surveying Softwares, Trends and
Their Impact on Quantity Surveyors. As we are Quantity Surveyors it is necessary to have a
good knowledge in Quantity Surveying Softwares and its trends to save more time and to
cope up with day to day problems in QS profession. Therefore in my opinion, this research
has taken a huge effort to promote these QS software trends in Sri Lanka by presenting
suggestions and recognizing these trends. General understanding about trends in Quantity
Surveying Softwares is relatively low among Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors therefore this
research would recognize the pros and cons of QS softwares and analyze whether these QS
softwares would affect QS profession.

This research was carried out through an in depth review of existing literature, which was
defined through questionnaire survey and expert interviews within Sri Lanka. Focus of this
study is to identify the usability, trends and newest ideas of QS software.

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1.0 Introduction

Till recent past many Quantity Surveyors prepared Bill of Quantities and other documents by
writing manually, with the introduction of Quantity Surveying softwares decreases the
workload for Quantity Surveyors. Hence this research would provide a guidance how
Quantity Surveyors can reach the maximum effectiveness by using these Quantity Surveying
Softwares.
Furthermore this project report would be a collection of ideas and suggestions of Sri Lankan
Quantity Surveyors on QS Softwares for further improve and it would present for Software
Developers for identify newer requirements in Quantity Surveying.

As well as this project would explain what the Quantity Surveying Softwares are and how
they can be used in Quantity Surveying. General understanding about trends in Quantity
Surveying Softwares is relatively low among Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors whilst receiving
high volumes of attention among Quantity surveyors around the world therefore, it is
necessary to aware of trends in these QS Softwares. Therefore this research guides all Sri
Lankan Quantity Surveyors towards these trends in QS Softwares.

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2.0 Chapter One: Introduction of Quantity Surveying Softwares

In Sri Lanka, there are very popular Quantity Surveying Softwares used among Quantity
Surveyors. I have done a little research on this particular matter. This report would widely
discuss about these QS Softwares. Therefore, I have done a survey on Facebook Quantity
Surveyor Group for list out these QS Softwares according to popularity order. As well as this
survey indicates the most popular software among Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors.

Figure 1: Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors Group’s cover

Figure 2: Survey 01 Results

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This Survey received 82 votes for this Survey and as per the preferential order of Voters we
can list out these softwares as follows;
1. MS Excel
2. AutoCAD
3. WinQS
4. Autodesk Quantity Takeoff
5. SketchUp
6. QSPlus
7. BIM

As per the this survey we can decide MS Excel is the most popular software which is widely
used among Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors and BIM is the least popular software among Sri
Lankan Quantity Surveyors.
In first chapter we would provide a general introduction about these QS softwares and
reasons for their popularity.

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BIM

BIM is an intelligent model-based process that provides insight to help us plan, design,
construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure. AS well as Building information
modeling (BIM) is a newer way to design and documentation the building projects. Many
Quantity Surveyors from worldwide are started to use BIM. Building information
models (BIMs) are automated files which can be exchanged or networked to support
decision-making.

 BIM is considering the entire lifecycle of the building (Design/Build/Operations)

 BIM provides all information about the building and its lifecycle.

 BIM defining and simulating the building, its delivery, and operation using integrated
tools.

Figure 3: BIM Life Cycle throughout a project

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MS Excel

Figure 4: MS Excel Logo

Microsoft Excel is a Spreadsheet application. I would say MS Excel is the most popular
software among Quantity Surveyors. It is used for preparing BOQs, Quotations, Interim Bills,
and etc.

Ms Excel is very easy to handle due to its GUI (Graphic user Interface) tools and easiness of
calculations.

Excel is a spreadsheet good for data manipulation but easy to overwrite formula or miss a
decimal place. Therefore we have to set up checks and cross checks to detect errors.

Also most software packages export to excel for report manipulation. (Wikipedia, 2015)
Quantity Surveyors use specific Quantity Surveying software;
1. To eliminate mistakes.
2. To save time.
3. To concentrate on input of relevant information.
4. To train others specifically to their career of choice.
5. To file properly.
6. To save computer space.
7. To be compliant with the law of a specific country.

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Excel is a spreadsheet good for data manipulation but easy to overwrite formula or miss a
decimal place. Therefore we have to set up checks and cross checks to detect errors. Also
most software packages export to excel for report manipulation.

 Latest Version- Excel 2013 (v15.0)

WinQS

Figure 5: WinQS Logo

WinQS is an efficient cost-effective software solution for all Quantity Surveyors and cost
engineers for the production of:
Cost plans
Detailed Estimates
Multiple Cost Analysis
Bills of Quantities
Monthly Progress Valuations
Financial Reviews/
Tender Analyses
Final Accounts

 Latest Version- WinQS-SQL 1.9.4.2

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QSPlus

Figure 6: QSPlus Logo

QSPlus is comprehensive, efficient and cost-effective, QS software among quantity surveyors

and other professionals in construction.

The main advantage over others is the affordability and efficiency of the software. It is faster
and easier to preparing Bill of Quantities (BOQs) with QSPlus. (QSPlus, 2015)

QSPlus is a perfect way of presenting Bill of Quantities after measurement. It is a perfect way
to presenting bills to client rather than the traditional quotation manner. QSPlus generates
quotation in a more unique and most presentable way which looks very standard.

QSPlus User Comments

 User Friendly
 Adaptable
 Multitasking
 Multiple users on same project
 Contractor Friendly
 Excellent Support Service

Operating Systems
 Windows XP
 Windows Vista Business or Professional
 Windows 7 Business or Professional

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AutoCAD

Figure 7: AutoCAD Logo

Autodesk is a software application for 2D and 3D computer Aided Design (CAD) and
drafting. AutoCAD is developed and marketed by Autodesk. Inc. The data in AutoCAD file
can be extracted into a data file for pricing, materials estimation, and other values related to
the objects represented. Additional Tools in AutoCAD generates standard 2D drawings, such
as elevations and sections, from a 3D Architectural model.

AutoCAD software is available for many languages. As well as another product of AutoCAD
is available as AutoCAD 360 which is a web-based and cloud-based application. (Wikipedia,
2015)
 Newest Version- AutoCAD 2015 (20.0)
 File format of AutoCAD is .dwg.

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SketchUp

Figure 8: SketchUp Logo

SketchUp is a 3D modeling software. SketchUp is currently owned by Trimble Navigation.

SketchUp is a program that lets us do all types of 3D drawings, currently owned by Trimble
Navigation. Using SketchUp Quantity Surveyors can generate model objects to provide
additional quantities. Models can be quickly produced in SketchUp; also they can be used for
quantification purposes.

SketchUp is available in both free and commercial versions. There are few SketchUp
versions SketchUp Make is one of that. SketchUp Make is the free of charge version for
home, personal and educational use. (Wikipedia, 2015)

SketchUp features include:

 Easy to use

 We can find out what part of the model is hit by sun

 We can do experiment with colours and textures

 Push and pull tool

 Freeware version- SketchUp Make (2013) for home, personal, and educational use.
 Paid Version - SketchUp Pro (2013) with Additional functions.

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Autodesk Quantity Takeoff (QTO)

Figure 9: Autodesk Quantity Takeoff Logo

Autodesk Quantity Takeoff building is a cost estimating software which makes material
costing faster, easier, and more accurate. Quantity Surveyors can create synchronized,
comprehensive project views that combine important information from BIM (Building
Information Modeling) tools such as Revit Architecture. Automatically or manually measure
areas and count building components, export to MS Excel and publish to DWF format.
 Easy to takeoff
 Greater flexibility than typical databases or spreadsheets
 Dynamic Counting
 More efficient manual takeoff
 Share, query, and clarify
 Faster and more insightful quantity reports

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System Requirements

Operating System

 Microsoft Windows XP Professional

 Microsoft Windows Vista
 Microsoft Windows 7

Web Browser

 Microsoft Internet Explorer® 7.0 or higher

Processor

 Intel Pentium IV processor, 800 MHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor (or
faster)
 Multiple processors supported
 Dual core supported

Memory (RAM)

 2 GB (minimum)
 4 GB (recommended)

Hard Disk

 550MB free space

Display Resolution

 1024 x 768 True Color (minimum)

Display Card

 128 MB Video Adaptor Card (minimum)

 256 MB or greater, Direct 3D compatible 3D Video Adaptor Card (recommended)

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3.0 Chapter Two: Usability of Quantity Surveying Softwares

MS Excel

MS Excel is used for prepare:

 Bill of Quantities

Figure 10: Bill of Quantities produced by MS Excel

Figure 11: Bill of Quantities produced by MS Excel

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 Summary sheets

Figure 12: Summary Sheets produced by MS Excel

 Bar Schedules
 Measurement Sheets

Figure 13: Measurement Sheets produced by MS Excel

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 Etc…

Generally MSExcel is easy to use and readily available. To some Quantity Surveyors
there are no obvious drawbacks. However excel has some limitations as bigger the
project is, including:
 Excel may not feed other computerized systems that you use, such as scheduling.
 Projects may involve very complex calculations
 If Quantity Surveyors in organization are going to estimate as a team that has to wok
together and Excel has limited multi user features.

Excel can be customized to eliminate some issues, but it can be expensive, and customizing
Excel at the user level makes it difficult. Also MSExcel provides greater individual flexibility
but Excel may not perform as efficiently as specialty Quantity Surveying software that comes
with the processing power necessary for complicated calculations.

Specifically created Quantity Surveying softwares do calculations for materials, labor,

equipment, taxes, mark ups, bonds, insurance and other costs are automatically calculated and
leaving no error.

Specifically designed QS softwares offer a level of insight that excel simply can’t. These
specifically design QS softwares summarized the estimations by cost type, material, labor,
sub contractors or any level of grouping, including user defined groups by phase, area or
location.
Also these softwares offering greater control and more informed decision making, moreover
it offers continuous upgrades and enhancements that reflect current construction industry
conditions.

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WinQS
WinQS is used by many Quantity Surveyors for the production of:
 Cost plans
 Detailed Estimates
 Multiple Cost Analysis
 Bills of Quantities
 Monthly Progress Valuations
 Financial Reviews/
 Tender Analyses
 Final Accounts

Features of WinQS

 WinQS provides a visual view of the bill on screen all times without printing or
previewing. All information that is entered can be viewed and edited on screen.
 In Bill production and estimating we can copy, multiply and select multiple sets of
prices stored in previous projects or current projects.
 Item and page numbering, summary pages, controlling pages all are done by
automatically by the system.

Special features of WinQS

 Customizing:
 The user can customize layout and wording on Bill pages.
 Any new units of measure can be added
 Items, dimension and whole bills can make hidden or unhidden

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Figure 14: WinQS Interface

 Progress Valuations:

 Monthly valuations can be prepared based on trades, work groups, activities,

elements or any other user defined grouping.
 A drill down feature allows valuation of any grouping or single BOQ item.
 Printing of current, previous and next valuations can be done

 Dimensions:

 All dimensions can be entered using spreadsheet style formula input and all
dimensions are saved for editing.
 Dimensions goes directly into the bill as measured and can be previewed on
screen as BOQ totals or as an abstract.
 All measurements can be entered into a multi level location.
 All previous projects can be used as libraries for any new project including the
ability to copy items and dimensions from previous projects. (QSPlus, 2015)

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Figure 15: Example Bill

 Estimating:
 A BOQ is automatically produced from the estimate measured.
 Cost Analysis:
 This feature allows for the extraction of costs per work group, element, work
breakdown or any other order that is user defined.
 Tender Analysis:
 A fully detailed or summarized analysis of up to six rates at a time can be
printed to highlight the variances in tendered rates.
 Cost Reports/ Financial Reviews:
 Allows the monthly review of a project based on the contract value.
 Financial Reviews are showing all savings as project progress to final cost.

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QSPlus

Cost Plan / Estimating

 QSPlus prepare, measure, price and output Cost Estimates and Elemental Cost Plans
in Elemental format with all levels of summary of detail. Also QSPlus provides fast
and easy conversion of cost estimates and Elemental Rates for the current project to
the relevant building type benchmark. Present take off dimensions and provides
graphic comparison of the Elemental rates for the current project, to the relevant
building type benchmark.
 In this part we can enter of general product data such as project description, client,
consultants, cost plan dates, VAT % and price increase forecast data for auto
calculation of escalations from Cost Plan date to project completion. Also we can set
percentages or amounts for auto calculation of Preliminaries and Contingencies
 Setup of Cost Plan sections for multi-use building cost plans and locations within
each building to further break down the detail, if required. Locations carry a factor
which can be amended. Preliminaries and Contingency percentages or amounts can be
set up differently for each section for auto calculation.
 We can straightforward enter measurements which can be used later for the
measurement of cost plan items
 Dimensions are entered as listed under Take off functions
 Allows to edit cost plan item description to the project also we can edit Variables in
the formula.
 Printouts
 Dimension Detail
 Dimension Summary
 Cost Plan Abstract
 Can import items from previous projects, with or without dimensions
 Print the Cost Plan at various levels,

o Project
o Section (building)
o Elemental Analysis
o Item Detail including or excluding the detail of the rate buildup items

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o Elemental Analysis and Item Detail to Excel

 Using the Rate Buildup items associated with each Cost Plan item this process
extrapolates them into Bill data using the quantity measured against each Cost Plan
item. Trades, Bill headings, subheadings and items are automatically generated.
(QSPlus, 2015)

Bill Documentation

 Prepare, measure, price and output Bills of Quantities

 Tender Analysis
 Elemental Cost Analysis

Figure 16: QSPlus Interface

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Sections and Locations

 Setup of Bills of Quantities sections for multi use building projects and locations
within each building to further break down the detail if required.
 Import items from previous projects, with or without dimensions
 Print the Bills of Quantities either blank for Tender, priced with internal office rates,
or contract rated. Output Bills of Quantities to Excel and send to tendering contractors
for pricing.
 QSPlus price the Bills with either internal QS rates or contract rates submitted by
tendering contractors.
 Tender Analysis on multiple rates.
 An Elemental Cost Analysis of the Bills of Quantities can be produced using a
window which allows us to check the Element allocations against each Bill Item.
 The output includes Elemental Quantities and Rates per Element, per Section, for the
Project.

Valuations

 Prepare process and produce Progress Payment Valuations based on a default

percentage, an allocation of money, or individual inputs by quantity, percentage or
amount valued to date.
 Also QSPlus Allows detailed valuation of Work done Late
 Setup of general Contract data such as Contract Type, Contract dates, adjustment
basis, various methods of valuing Preliminaries, etc.
 Advance payments may be defined with a set of proposed recoveries.
 Work done late may be entered against bill items
 Materials On and Off Site may be recorded
 All figures calculated or entered are carried through to the next certificate

 All the Dayworks to be recorded against the Contract.

 Work done late may be entered against Quick Variations

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 Values for Final Account Variations may optionally be presented on the Summary of
Work Done as:
o A single line of print for all Final Account Variations
o A line of print for each individual Final Account Variations

Final Accounts

 Prepare, measure, price and output Final Account

 Output Final Account as a Remeasured Bill or as a schedule of Additions and
Omissions
 A series of items can be omitted with a single click

 Setup Final Account items with a Number and Description

 Set Status to one of the "pending" status codes or "Approved", in which case the Final
Account Item is included in the presentation printouts
 Select whether to include in Progress Payment Valuations

Printouts

o Final Account Items

o Site Instructions
o Items Measured
o Dimension Detail
o Dim Summary
o Abstract of Final Account Item
o Abstract by Page (of Bill)
o Abstract by Location
o Abstract by Work Group

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Autodesk Quantity Takeoff (QTO)

 Autodesk Quantity Takeoff software helps make cost estimating faster, easier and
more accurate.
 With QTO automatically or manually we can measure areas and count or price
building components such as walls, doors, and window.
 QTO helps to print the results to Microsoft Excel Software, or publish to DWF file
format.
 Autodesk Quantity Takeoff reporting tools helps enable users to create digital,
detailed materials reports much faster than paper based processes.
 Autodesk Quantity Takeoff keeps workflow digital and helps ensure that reports,
materials quantities, and other data remain up to date.

 With QTO we can efficiently count and quantify building components and their
compositions.
 Autodesk Quantity Takeoff uses the latest Autodesk technology to provide drawing,
viewing and quantification.
 Autodesk Quantity Takeoff software provides greater flexibility than typical
databases or spreadsheets, enabling a smoother, more accurate workflow for Quantity
Surveyors.
 QTO quickly perform area calculations, linear measurements, and counts, and
organize our results more quickly and easily in the project catalog.

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Figure 17: Quantity Takeoff (QTO) Logo

Autodesk Quantity Takeoff (QTO) can use two dimensional and three dimensional deigns to
create a quantity takeoff that can be used to create a cost estimate. QTO can use various file
types as its source files such as Design DWF or non DWF files such as PDF files, DWG files,
and JPG image files. The DWF file is a file type created by Autodesk and which can import
into QTO. User able to use the Automatic Takeoff function. When importing non DWF files
into QTO, the user would have to manually perform the quantity takeoff.

Most of the Quantity Takeoff softwares are generally only allows manual takeoffs to be
performed but QTO allows the estimator to automatically extract quantities based on the
model.
As well as using QTO Quantity surveyors could adjust the taken off quantities based on
waste factors.

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Performing a Takeoff

Everyone perform take offs in so many different ways but QTO organize the takeoff to make
creating an estimate easier. QTO is provided easier way to perform basic take off steps as
follows;

 Setting up the take off project name

 Choosing the correct unit because once the units are chosen it cannot be changed.
 Choosing a catalog would help especially if the company has their own format for
estimates.
 Groups and subgroups can be added into the catalogs or WBS for similar items to
further organize the quantity take offs.
 We have to make sure we are using the right units for each items. Ex: a simple
mistake such as having square inches or square yards instead of square feet for walls
could greatly affect the cost of the project.

Generally there is no set of rules to where to begin perform take offs. Some choose to follow
their company’s estimate format, starting from superstructure and concrete and then moving
onto the architectural trade, while others choose to do the opposite and start from
architectural than move to the superstructure. It is all a matter of preference.

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SketchUp

Accurate Measurement
Everything we create in SketchUp has a precise dimension. SketchUp software let us to build
models that are as we need them to be. To model with precision, we can simply type in
dimensions as you draw.
Copying & Arrays

SketchUp’s Move tool is also a tool for copying entities while moving something. It is a
newer way to modifying models. Copying and arrays works the same way with the rotate tool
too.

Edges and Faces

Edges are straight lines, and faces are the 2D shapes.

Figure 18: SketchUp Logo

Follow Me
Follow me tool is another example of innovativeness of SketchUp. Follow Me tool creates
3D forms by extruding 2D surfaces along predetermined paths. Also we can use Follow Me
tool to round off edges on 3D models.

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Push/Pull

Push/Pull is the most specific tool in SketchUp. Push/Pull tool extrude any flat surface into a
three dimensional form.

Add Dimensions and Callouts

Linear and angular dimensioning tool set the format, scale, and precision of displayed
measurements.

Export PDFs, images and CAD files

If we need to send our work to someone who needs a CAD file, we can use Layout to export
pages as DWG and DXF files. Layout also exports multi page PDF, as well as images in
TIFF, JPEG and PNG formats.

Give Full Screen Presentations

Layout can jump into presentation mode at ant time. We can orbit, pan, zoom, and walk
through as we are presenting of embedded model. Also it is possible to produce a 3D
animation during full screen presentation.

Print to scale

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AutoCAD

The preparation of cost modeling in the initial stages of the design process is important as the
cutting down of cost can be done at this stage. Before the emergence of CAD software, the
quantity surveyor had difficulties in identifying the effect of design and cost because the
production of rough plans took a longer time and delayed the cost estimate. This caused many
ideas diminish before they can even be brought to the client.

Figure 19: AutoCAD Interface

CAD has helped in improving communication ties between the Quantity Surveyor and the
client as clients now are given the liberty of studying and visualizing the types of design
produced by the architect. The Quantity Surveyor will then be able to take necessary actions
immediately to show the implications of the cost involved. It would be redundant if the
architect were able to produce various designs using CAD according to the client’s
requirements in such a short period of time, yet the Quantity Surveyor is not able to quickly
estimate the cost of the designs due to the time consuming tasks of measuring quantities.

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AutoCAD replaced the manual drawing board and drawings can be produced in the digital
format. Making changes to the design will automatically update the changes in all documents,
views, sections, elevations, schedules, layouts leading to tremendous saving in time and risk
of errors.
Realizing the possibility of acquiring quantities directly from the CAD drawings, software
providers has managed to produce CAD based measurement software (CBMS). CBMS has
added function of allowing the user to extract quantities. Some of the CBMS that is available
in the market is CADlink, Revit and Autodesk QTO. (Wikipedia, 2015)

Benefits of CAD software in measurements

The measurement process for irregular shape is faster and easier. If the irregular shape
will need to be divided into a few regular shapes and the areas of each shape is
calculated and added to get the area of the whole irregular shape. By using CAD
software, the area of irregular shape of a building can easily be measured by just
clicking the tool.

The layering concept in CAD software will assist the taker off in the ease of viewing
and identifying the different types of floor finishes. Different floor finishes can be
separated using various colors or hatch patterns and the exact area of the different
type of floor finishes is then calculated by clicking on the objects. Area floor finishes
in separate location but is of the same type can be easily obtained by commanding the
software to calculate area for all objects that contains the same code of the selected
hatch pattern.
Measurement is more accurate as CAD drawings are produced in actual size and thus
error in quantities due to usage of wrong scale is eliminated.

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BIM
In past, Quantity Surveyors did measuring and valuing construction works but now Quantity
Surveyor role become professional experts on the contractual and financial aspects of
construction developments. But with the introduction of BIM;
 Time taken to measure buildings drastically reduced
 Leaving more time to estimating calculations
 Redefine traditional professional boundaries in Quantity Surveying.
 Raise the professionalism of Quantity Surveyors

Figure 20: BIM (Building Information Modeling) Interface

Also BIM softwares are supporting the traditional methods for developing construction
products. These software implementations enable the systems to be user friendly and further
they offer a gradual change to using automated systems and most systems present data in
traditional paper format such as take off paper.

Cost estimates are prone to contain various inaccuracies as they are usually based on limited
information and prepared within a limited time frame. But as first step BIM would design of
a 3D model of the client’s proposal.

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The second step would be automatically generate

 Resource demands
 Cost calculations or estimates
 Bill of Quantities

These steps require the extraction of all dimensions and information on building components
from the 3D model and then combining it with databases containing unit costs and other data.

BIM is a newer technology in construction industry and typically slow to adopt change. But
BIM will grow to play an even more crucial role in building documentation.

BIM offers:

1. Improved visualization
2. Improved productivity due to easy retrieval of information
3. Increased coordination of construction documents
4. Embedding and linking of vital information such as vendors for specific materials,
location of details and quantities required for estimation and tendering
5. Increased speed of delivery
6. Reduced costs
7. Improved visualization
8. Improved productivity due to easy retrieval of information
9. Increased coordination of construction documents

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4.0 Chapter Three: Impact on Quantity Surveyor Profession from Quantity Surveying
Softwares

Still most of the Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors is not aware of usefulness of BIM Software.
I have done a survey on Facebook QS group to have a certain idea about whether BIM
software would affect Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors. BIM is the leading concern among Sri
Lankan Quantity surveyors whether it would affect their profession more than other newest
QS Softwares. Survey Results are as follows;

1) Survey No. 01:

Figure 21: Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors Group's Cover photo

Figure 22: Survey No. 01- BIM

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2) Survey No. 02:

Figure 23: I'm Quantity Surveyor, I have no life Group's Cover Photo

Figure 24: Survey No. 02 - BIM

As per results of these two surveys we can decide some people have recognized BIM
(Building Information Modeling) is not a threat to the QS profession. Moreover this thesis
would justify how much BIM would be beneficial to the Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors.

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Also as per other surveys we can recognized BIM Software is not widely used in Sri Lanka.

Figure 25: Survey 01 Results

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As well as, I have done a research on LinkedIn Online QS groups to further analyze whether
Newer QS softwares would affect Quantity surveying profession or not.
1) Discussion No. 01

Figure 26: QSI LinkedIn Group's Cover Photo

Figure 27: Discussion No. 01

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2) Discussion No. 02

Figure 28: Professional Quantity Surveying LinkedIn Group's Cover photo

Figure 29: Discussion No. 02

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According to these two discussions with opinions of world wide quantity surveyors, we can
recognize newer Quantity Surveying softwares raise the professionalism of Quantity
Surveyors rather than becoming a threat to the QS profession. Furthermore this report would
discuss about how these QS softwares would affect QS profession.

Usually Quantity Surveyors are more involved in the latter part of the design appraisal
process. In this part of the process Quantity Surveyor starts to prepare bills of quantities and
other documentation that can support the procurement process. Estimating in the design
phase is usually conceptual and is based on limited project information. Therefore automation
of bills of quantities reduces error and misunderstanding and evolves in step with the design
changes. It removes some of the tedium and speeds up the process. Therefore with the
introduction of new QS softwares;

 Raise the professionalism of Quantity Surveyors

 Redefine traditional professional boundaries in Quantity Surveying.
 Leaving more time to estimating calculations
 Preventing inaccuracies of data re entry and ensure consistency between models.
 Time taken to measure buildings drastically reduced
 Organizing of data into a logical and consistent format.

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Drawbacks of Quantity surveying softwares

The development and technology and the implementation of new Quantity Surveying
softwares will cause some issues. They are as follows:

1. Newest Softwares are expensive

2. Lack of knowledge and skill relating to the technology
3. Quantity Surveying standards are different country to country therefore some
softwares cannot be used in every country.
4. The newest multi purpose QS softwares create big and complex files hence the
scalability and manageability of a fully loaded project database becomes a major
challenge.
5. Quantity Surveyors typically rely on a number of purpose built models therefore
difficult in adopt one system for an organization

Solutions for drawbacks in Quantity surveying softwares

1. Training programs, Seminars and Workshops should be before adopting newer QS

softwares to the Organization.
2. In order to use QS softwares with significant outcomes and fee scales will need to be
adjusted in order to match with appropriate professional responsibilities.

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5.0 Chapter Four: Trends in Quantity Surveying Softwares

Traditional building designing was two-dimensional drawings (Plans, elevations, sections,

etc.). But now Building Information Modeling extends this beyond 3D. Width, height and
depth are the elements of 3 dimensions. But upcoming trends are Time as the fourth
dimension (4D), cost as the fifth dimension (5D) and facilities management as the sixth
dimension (6D).

BIM covers more than just geometry; it covers spatial relationships, light analysis,
geographic information, and quantities and properties of building components (for example,
manufacturer’s details).

BIM design tools allow extraction of different views from a building model for drawing
production and providing cost estimates as well as material tracking and ordering.

BIM can be used beyond the planning and design phase of the project, extending throughout
the building life cycle.

BIM supports:

1. Cost Management
2. Construction Management
3. Project Management
4. Facility Operation

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BIM 360 GLUE

Figure 30: BIM 360 GLUE Logo

BIM 360 GLUE is a cloud based software for BIM management and collaboration. BIM
connects entire project team of the particular project and stream line BIM (Building
Information Modeling) project workflows.

Figure 31: BIM 360 GLUE Software on ipad

BIM 360 FIELD

Figure 32: BIM 360 Field Logo

BIM 360 FIELD is a field management software that use mobile technology. BIM 360
FIELD is a software for 2D and 3D environments that use mobile technology at the site for
cloud based collaboration and reporting. This software helps to take critical information from

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the BIM to people who are at the site. As well as this software helps to improve quality,
safety and commissioning for construction.

Figure 33: BIM 360 Field Software on ipad

AutoCAD

AutoCAD is available as AutoCAD 360 which is a web-based and cloud-based application.

Figure 34: AutoCAD 360 Software availabale on Google Play Figure 35: AutoCAD 360 software on ipad

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6.0 Chapter Five: Newer ideas and Suggestions in Quantity Surveying Softwares

In Sri Lanka, Most of the Construction Organizations have not recognized the benefits of
using Newest Quantity Surveying Softwares. But Countries like South Africa, Australia,
Nigeria and China Widely use these QS softwares. Building Information Modeling Softwares
to be played a vital role in construction industry but preparation for these trends among Sri
Lankan Quantity surveyors is a big concern. Therefore an Organization like IQSSL (Institute
of Quantity Surveyors Sri Lanka) which is the governing body for initiating and fostering
higher standards of the Quantity surveying practice in Sri Lanka, has a huge responsibility to
promote these trends in Sri Lanka.

Figure 36: IQSSL Website Interface

Figure 37: Vision and Mission Statements of IQSSL

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Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors should adopt BIM software into their QS profession. Several
researchers evaluated several reasons for this. They are as follows (Thomas, 2010); The
Second World Construction Symposium 2013: Socio-Economic Sustainability in
Construction14 – 15 June 2013, Colombo, Sri Lanka

 30% of projects do not meet original budget

 92% of clients said that designer’s drawings are typically not sufficient for
construction
 37% of materials used in construction become waste
 10% of the cost of a project is typically due to change orders

In Sri Lanka it is difficult to get information about materials, suppliers and etc. Therefore a
requirement arose about island wide database of Contractors, Sub Contractors, and Suppliers.
If there is a database every Quantity Surveyors can access to acquire information about
suppliers, contractors, and sub contractors it would be really useful for every Sri Lankan
Quantity Surveyors. Also if there is a way to acquire quotations online, directly from
suppliers it is another advantage to all Quantity Surveyors. Therefore I suggest a database to
acquire information from above all sources.

Sometimes Quantity Surveyors face difficulties in drafting sketches properly when they are
doing measuring works at sites. If Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors can use an Ipad for draft
the sketches properly by using online AutoCAD 360 software it would be really time saving.

Figure 38: QS Android Softwares

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Most of the International Quantity surveying softwares supports International Standards like
SMM 7. Therefore IQSSL should encourage Sri Lankan QS software developers to design
softwares that support Sri Lankan Standards like SLS 573.

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Conclusion
This Research Project helped me to improve my knowledge on “Quantity Surveying
Softwares” which are to be used through out my career. This report has widely discussed
about Quantity Surveying Softwares, Trends and Their Impact on Quantity Surveyors.
General understanding about Trends in Quantity Surveying softwares is relatively low among
Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors compared to the other countries hence this Research project
guided Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors for identify the newest trends in Quantity Surveying
Softwares. After interviewing Professional Quantity Surveyors in Sri Lanka, this research has
taken an effort to present suggestions for software developers to improve these QS softwares
as per requirements of many Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors.

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References
[1] Autodesk. (2015). BIM 360 FIELD. [ONLINE]. Accessed 12 February 2015 available
at: http://www.autodesk.com/products/bim-360-field/overview

[2] Glodon BIM Check. (2015). [ONLINE]. Accessed 12 February 2015 available
at: http://www.gbimcheck.com/showIndex.

[3] Construction: QTO. (2015). Construction: QTO. [ONLINE]. Last Accessed 12 February 2015
available at: http://www.autodesk.typepad.com/construction/qto/page/4/.

[4] (2015). Would anyone agree that quantity surveying in the traditional sense is a dying profession
and will be succeeded by the use of BIM? LinkedIn. [ONLINE]. Last Accessed 12 February 2015
at: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/Would-anyone-agree-that-quantity-
2108952.S.5791897396053041155.

[5] Bayt.com. (2015). What software are used for quantity surveying?. [ONLINE]. Last Accessed 13
February 2015 available at: http://www.bayt.com/en/specialties/q/20745/what-software-are-used-
for-quantity-surveying/.

[6] (2015). Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors. [ONLINE]. Last Accessed 13 February 2015 available at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/184686418355893/.

[7] Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (2015). SketchUp. [ONLINE]. Last Accessed 16 February 2015
available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SketchUp.

[8] Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (2015). Building information modeling. [ONLINE]. Last
Accessed 16 February 2015 at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_information_modeling.

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