Software application

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BACHELOR OF QUANTITY SURVEYING (HONS)
SOFTWARE APPLICATION FOR QUANTITY SURVEYING
[CSC60603]
GroupMembers:
LIM HAO ZHENG 0327115
SHUM WEN JUN 0325151
NG KAI CHUN 1101g13410
HENG yi CHENG 0327895
SOW WEI HENN 0324998
PENNY Leung 0328245
ANG TOH CHUAN 0333129

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LECTURER: SR.YEAP
TABLE OFCONTENTS
1.0 CostX .........................................................................................................................................5
1.1 Functions of CostX : ............................................................................................................ 6
1.2 Limitations of CostX :..........................................................................................................7
2.0 CUBICOST (GLODON SOFTWARE).......................................................................................................8
2.1 Function of Cubicost (Glodon Software) .............................................................................. 9
2.2 Limitations of Cubiost (Glodon Software).......................................................................... 10
3.0 Buildsoft Cubit ............................................................................................................................ 11
3.1 Function of Cubit Buildsoft................................................................................................ 12
3.2 Limitations ....................................................................................................................... 14
4.0 Navisworks................................................................................................................................. 15
4.1 Functions of Navisworks ................................................................................................... 15
4.2 Limitation of Navisworks .................................................................................................. 16
5.0 Comparison and Summary of BIM Estimating Software................................................................................ 17
5.1 Comparison Table............................................................................................................. 17
5.1.1 Estimating Software Recommendation........................................................................... 18
6.0 Building Information Modelling ......................................................................................................... 19
6.1 Preparation/Briefing stage................................................................................................ 19
6.1.1 Benefit of BIM............................................................................................................ 19
6.1.2 Constraints of BIM...................................................................................................... 19
6.2 Design stage ..................................................................................................................... 20
6.2.1 Benefit of BIM............................................................................................................ 20
6.3 Pre-construction stage...................................................................................................... 21
6.3.1 Benefit of BIM............................................................................................................ 21
6.4 Construction stage............................................................................................................ 22
6.4.1 Benefit of BIM............................................................................................................ 22

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7.0 Computer-AidedDesign(CAD).......................................................................................................... 23
7.1 Briefing Stage................................................................................................................... 23
7.1.1 Benefits of CAD.......................................................................................................... 23
7.1.2 Constraints of CAD ..................................................................................................... 23
7.2 Design stage ..................................................................................................................... 24
7.2.1 Benefits of CAD.......................................................................................................... 24
7.3 Pre-constructions stage..................................................................................................... 24
7.3.1 Benefits of CAD.......................................................................................................... 24
7.4 Construction stage............................................................................................................ 25
7.4.1 Benefits of CAD.......................................................................................................... 25
7.5 Post constructions stage (Other stage) .............................................................................. 25
7.5.1 Benefits of CAD.......................................................................................................... 25
8.0ManualMeasurement..................................................................................................................... 26
8.1 Briefing/Preparation Stage................................................................................................ 26
8.2 Design Stage..................................................................................................................... 27
8.2.1 Benefits of Manual Measurement............................................................................... 27
8.2.2 Constraints of Manual Measurement.......................................................................... 27
8.3 Pre-construction stage...................................................................................................... 27
8.4 Construction Stage............................................................................................................ 28
8.5 Others.................................................................................................................................. 28
8.5.1 Benefits of Manual Measurement.................................................................................. 28
8.5.2 Constraints of Manual Measurement............................................................................. 28
9.0 References.................................................................................................................................. 29

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1.0 CostX
CostX was first released in July 2004 by Exactal. Its sales was then grown exponentially and it is now
sold and supported in over 80 countries. It provides an integrated BIM and 2D on-screen
measurement solution with a unique integration between the cost estimates and the elements on the
drawing files that the estimate represents. This approach keeps estimates up to date and allows
drawing revisions to be easily evaluated to eliminate traditional scope creep in construction projects.
Various products under Exactal

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1.1 Functions of CostX:
 Measurement – Using CostX, on screen measurement is fast, easy and accurate. A ‘sticky
cursor’ attaches to the lines in the drawing, making measurement a simple case of ‘point and
click’. All measurements are clearly highlighted. Several simple but smart measurement tools
allow users to optimize drawing file intelligence for increase measurement speed and
accuracy, eg. Areas, lengths, counts.
 Design Package Support – CostX can support PDF or CAD drawings without having to learn
CAD and without having CAD installed.. It also can support drawing file formats such as
SKP, DWF, IFC, SWG and DGN.
 Auto-Revisioning – As revised drawings for a building are issued to reflect design changes,
the building revision status in CostX can be incremented and the drawings promoted from the
previous to the new issue. All changes are scheduled in Revision Log.
 Workbooks – Workbook structure is spreadsheet based, similar to Excel. Dimensions can be
transferred from the Dimension Groups to the Workbook through live linking function.
Besides, it can automatically append secondary quantities to workbook descriptions by a
simple right mouse click command.
 Subcontractor Comparison – CostX enables users to create workbook with sub-contractors
details for comparison. When the comparison exercise is complete and a tender price has been
determined, a Tender Schedule priced using all the selected subcontractor prices may be
generated.

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1.2 Limitations of CostX :
 Continuously pay for add-ons – Users need to purchase a wide array of Add-On products to
extend the capability of BIM tools.
 Skilled and experienced estimator is required – Multiple functions of CostX provides easier
ways for collaboration and analysis, testing and validation, but it is still insufficient for
construction. Therefore, skilled and experienced estimators are required to fully utilize CostX
to achieve its maximum benefits.
 Minor problems on detections – Reinforcement bars detection is one of the limitation.
Sometimes, bents of mesh fabric reinforcement (BRC) and reinforcement bars in column
cannot be detected in a way that affect the accuracy of measurement. Besides, overlapped
lines cannot be detected as well.

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2.0 CUBICOST(GLODON SOFTWARE)
Based on the construction engineering area, Glodon focuses on the entire lifecycle of construction
projects and delivers first-class products and services. Cubicost is the latest brand of Glodon in the
international market .It consists of four types of individual BIM-based software products ,which are
Cubicost Takeoff for Architecture and Structure (TAS), Cubicost Takeoff for Rebar (TRB), Cubicost
Takeoff for Mechanical and Electrical (TME) and Cubicost TBQ. All these four products virtually
cover all general requirements in construction cost estimation related business .Besides that, Cubicost
is currently available in a total of fifteen countries in the world ,including USA, China, United
Kingdom, Hong Kong, Malaysia and so on.

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2.1 Function of Cubicost (GlodonSoftware)
i) Quick modelling and BIM-based quantity takeoff
- Build BIM model efficiently by identifying DWG, JPG,PDF or by tracking 2D drawings. One
click to complete quantity takeoff based on model. Deals with variations quickly by only
adjusting model information and performing calculation again.
ii) Professional, accurate and easy to check
- Built-in local measurement methods, which has been proved by users from many countries. It
can also deduct automatically based on the relations among elements calculation accuracy. It
has support viewing calculation basis and expressions to facilitate rapid result checking and
less calculation errors.
iii) Efficiency and convenience
- Built-in calculation rules application, special elements calculation, variation, etc. Cubicost
also presents the capability of integrating all software ,including TAS, TRB, TME and TBQ
to solve difficulties respectively through the whole process of cost business .BIM model and
related data also can be easily transferred between the four products mentioned earlier,
bringing you the most professional, efficient and accurate BIM cost estimation experience.
iv) Teamwork high efficiency
- Cubicost supports the rapid adjustment and reuse of BIM models, to reduce the working
intensity and greatly increase the efficiency of team collaboration.

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2.2 Limitations of Cubiost (Glodon Software)
i) Costly
- The license to have Cubicost installed in a computer is very costly and not many QS firms
especially the smaller firms can afford to install this software in their computers.
Consequently ,there will be some QS firms would prefer using some other more affordable
software like CostX or Navisworks rather than Cubicost although they might have lesser
functions.
ii) Lacking of reputation in the industry
- Cubicost is still a relatively new BIM-based product for taking off the market and the
countries that this software is available is still very limited.Cubicost is also constantly
updating and improving its software hence it is still not a completely stable product yet as
there might be some flaws that affect the performance of this product. Furthermore, there are
also still not many users that are familiar with the usage of Cubicost and the company
requires to appoint more trainers to enable the firms that are using this product become
familiar with the function of it.

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3.0 Buildsoft Cubit
Buildsoft is an Australian company which was established in 1985 to create and develop the computer
software technology for construction industry. The products that introduce by this Buildsoft has been
exported to 20 countries in the world. Their software has been widely used for construction industry
in the world. Cubit Buildsoft is an estimating programme that has been adapt for commercial use in
building and construction industry. It is the only application that allows you to takeoff quantities
directly from the plans and turn into estimate. It is the only program that seamlessly integrates take-
off with estimating for all-in-one solution which is “natural” estimating process. One main features of
the Cubit Buildsoft is it can perform cross referencing your taking-off items and estimating progress.
Cubit Buildsoft is suitable in wide range of users and mostly in construction industry such as quantity
surveyors, estimators, contractors, subcontractors and also builders.

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3.1 Function of Cubit Buildsoft
1) Natural Estimating
 Specialized estimating software with flexible functionality that allows user to
estimate the way they want. It is the only software that seamlessly integrate takeoff
with estimating for an all-in-one solution which is called Natural Estimating. It makes
it three times faster than any other software because this software laid out in one view
and the information can be find easily and quickly.
2) Integration Solution
 It is complete and integrated packages software. It supports many types of files such
as DWF Files, PDF, CAD (DWG, DXF), BIM (DWFx), and image files and directly
integrate these files into workbooks and libraries. This function is a seamless services
when working through taking-off and estimating, which helps a lot in executing files,
importing and exporting. Also the revision tools are very helpful, provides great
tracking function where your changes is made, it will automatically amend the
quantities which provides more accurate estimates and also identify the cost impacts
immediately.
3) Create and update your estimates more efficiently
 You can import suppliers price list and save them as a template price list which can
maximise the profit, provides accuracy in your estimating progress and controlling
the price in a convenient way. It can also create new template jobs that combine all
your trades and items, makes you more organized and easier to start your new
estimate anytime. Cubit can also update your prices template at any time and pushed
the changes into existing jobs so that your prices and estimates are always up-to-date.
4) Easily view and edit plan changes

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 Import your revised plan into the existing plan to check the differences and additional
items which differentiate by colours. This allow you to easily view all revision
changes between plans. Update your take-off is a part of your revision process. Any
changes made are immediately update your estimate. Automatic plan revision can
saves you countless hours in your estimating process.
5) Job Analysis
 Cubit software can group similar information together to increase the visibility of the
progress. Easily just code the estimate in your way to help you sort data and change
into different formats. This provides you an ability of quick analyse or breakdown the
jobs according to the cost codes or material. Exp: When the client ask you about the
volume of concrete in a particular floor, this information can be quickly retrieved by
coding the estimate by material. It also allows you to split the jobs across different
budget and stages and export to more detailed estimates into different programs such
as Microsoft Excel and other third party application.

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3.2 Limitations
1) Requires fixed license
 Previously Buildsoft software requires only the floating license which means it can be
installed on many computers as desired but only can be activated on a single machine
at a time. However, Buildsoft decided to include a fixed license into Cubit software
which means it can assigned to a single nominated person and only can installed one
machine at a time. Although it has strengthen the security of this software, but it has
also limits the flexibility of users who forget to bring their laptop.
2) Typing Errors
 Buildsoft Cubit software doesn’t have the ability to detect those typing errors that
already type in. We have to check manually using own human skill especially when
prepare Bills of Quantities, we need extra time to key in those figure and numbers
carefully into computer to avoid mistakes.
3) Virus Attack
 Before installing the Buildsoft Cubit into your computer, You need to ensure that
your computer has licensed anti-virus software which update-daily. The antivirus not
only detect virus attack and also protect our whole computer system. When a
computer doesn’t have antivirus software installed, it will cause problems when you
use Buildsoft Cubit. The virus will occur into your computer. Once the Cubit
software is not protected, will cause lost of data and may not be recovered.
Figure 1: Pricesof Cubit
Software withfixedlicense.

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4.0 Navisworks
Navisworks is a 3D design review product from Autodesk. It is used primarily in construction
industries to complement 3D design packages. This software has been widely grown in many
countries around the world as it is very helpful BIM tool in the construction industry. There are
various versions of Navisworks such as Navisworks Freedom, Navisworks Simulate and Navisworks
Manage.
4.1 Functions of Navisworks
I. Ability to support for a wide range of design file formats
Navisworks is able to generate quantity takeoff by combining multiple sources of 3D source
files. It can combine information from other BIM tools such as Revit and AutoCAD software
together with data from other tools to create a synchronized project.
II. Quantification workbook
The workbook is where the QS will perform majority of the takeoff efforts. The workbook is
able to perform two types of takeoff which is model takeoff and virtural takeoff. Model
takeoff allows the QS to quantify the models from properties or selection in the model.
Virtual takeoff can be carried out when the takeoff objects are not linked to a model object or
item.
III. Clash detection
Detecting collisions during design, in real time, enable the team to anticipate and avoid
potential problems before construction, reducing expensive delays and rework. It also has the
ability to filter through building elements quickly and run collision test between isolated
building elements.

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IV. Change analysis
This enables the QS to compare changes to properties between model versions. It can be run
to ensure the QS have the latest correct quantities and can quickly find any new or deleted
items from the takeoff.
4.2 Limitation of Navisworks
I. Pay more for add-on
The basic version of Navisworks which is Navisworks Freedom and is free to download but it
has limited function. The user will need buy the add-on which is Navisworks Simulate or
Navisworks Manage to extend the capability of the BIM tool.
II. Requires a sever for the computer
The user cannot turn off the computer otherwise it would take a long time to start up as the
files size are so big and take so long to load. The only way to get around this is to reduce the
file sizes by not storing all the attributes in the model but rather link the model to attributes in
another file store.

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5.0 Comparison and Summary of BIM Estimating Software
5.1 ComparisonTable
Sofware Glodon Cubit Buildsoft Naviswork CostX
Ease of Use 3 4 3 5
Using as a
Beginner
3 4 3 4
Extracting
Quantities
4 4 4 4
Export Reports,
Compatibility
3 2 3 3
Practically for
Quantity
Surveying
5 4 4 4
Program
Performance
4 4 5 4
TOTAL 22 22 22 24

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5.1.1 Estimating Software Recommendation
As you can see on top of the comparison table, CostX has the highest marks among others estimating
software. According to the above table, we have decided CostX as our recommendation for the
estimating software. The reason why we choose CostX is:
 One of the benefits is because CostX will not lag and freeze even with many ongoing tabs and
drawing, this program reacts perfectly. Additionally, Cost X allows you to upload as many
drawings as you want, at the same time you can multitask by scaling the whole set of
drawings at once.
 Furthermore, this software is easy to use compared to other software, it is simple and
convenient. Cost X has divided into two stages, first is to complete your “Dimensions” take-
off from plans then second, you can move on to the workbooks to calculate and estimate the
result. These are the only two stages you need to do, which makes the software easy to use.
Moreover, doing one thing at a time lower the risks of making mistakes.
 Besides that, CostX is the only program tested to be truly able to read encrypted data. It has a
function called Line Mode which allows the QS to use the cursor to connect lines drawn by an
architect to takeoff dimensions, or if needed, the QS can also choose Point mode where the
cursor will snap to the nearest object. All the data is added to the Dimension Group where the
QS can separately measure items. CostX also has a Workbook that looks like an Excel
spreadsheet which allows the QS to drag dimensions from the left side and drop them into the
workbook. Not only that, the Workbook has customized template with a few formulas built in
which can be used from job to job.

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6.0 Building Information Modelling
6.1 Preparation/Briefing stage
6.1.1Benefitof BIM
1. Collect more informed for decision making.
 The greatest decisions are based more on information and less on uncertainty work. When a
project manager is capable to look at a detailed 3D illustration of the building in question
before making a decision, it's possible to make the guesswork become zero.
In BIM 3D models, project managers can conduct simulations of different conditions,
enabling them to absolutely know the prospective consequences of a particular action before
they take it. This provides a level of understanding that simply would not have been possible
in the days before BIM existed, and this new insight will no doubt lead to better project
results.
2. Ensure a more streamlined project
 BIM ability enable immediately and accurate assessment of design option in a short period.
6.1.2Constraintsof BIM
1. High cost implementation process.
 The investment cost is high. This is because the BIM does not only just involve the startup the
software,but also all elements involved in business operation. The cost include upgrade
software usage,education and training cost and transition and behavioral cost. Some of
company can't afford the cost.
2. Lack ofstandard.
 The lack of knowledge about the BIM technology can be traced back to the lack of standard
BIM implementation guidelines at a national level to follow. The different company have
their own definition and version of BIM technology implementation guideline. Therefore,
government should provide the BIM implementation guide for each company.

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6.2 Design stage
6.2.1 Benefit of BIM
1. Accurate visualization
 BIM adoption is the strengths of 3D representation which this type of visualization support
the design team to know the design and fix the problems better. This is known as the
advantage of BIM which offers accurate geometric representation of the project's components
in a database.
2. Reduce conflict
 A Building Information Model provides an incorporated data of the building. Therefore
throughout a single database coordination between design team members can be enhanced
and relevant information can be share more easily. BIM assists in communication between
designers ensuring them that there will be no clashes, conflicts or mistakes in later stages
6.2.2 Constraints of BIM
1. Required better quality of computer.
 BIM software is occupy a lot space of memory. The normal computer may can’t support the
software and could influence the speed of computer. Company should always maintain and
upgrade the computer
2. Required to train the employer
 The Company may send their worker to train and learn the knowledge of BIM software to
make themselves are expert with it.

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6.3 Pre-construction stage
1. Cost-savings and reduce the reworks.
 BIM software have the clear vision and effectiveness in communication between the client and
the stakeholder. When incorporated with powerful collaborative project team management,
robust communication, and construction schedule management, BIM is able to help drive cycle
time monitoring and even reduced the rework and saving the cost.
2. Accurate the estimating.
 BIM with the purchasing and estimating systems enables the developer, contractor, or general
service provider to establish very accurate,automated fees of materials for each building.
While improving material management and minimizing wastage are constantly the marks of
well-run structure and construction organizations, in a supply environment of high material
costs with additional upside risk, the financial savings opportunities are even more
substantial
1. Risk ofresponsibility.
 There is not a standard guidelines for the construction industry. When the mistake is occurred
or any happened and this would lead them are all passing the buck to another. In
consideration of risk, contractors should very carefully check all contracts on BIM projects to
guarantee that they are customized to address the relationships and responsibilities in a way
that accounts for the unique aspects of a BIM project.

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6.4 Construction stage
1. Planning the project.
 Construction planning with 3D objects in a design so that the schedule and progress of
construction can be estimated and revealwhat should the site and structure look like at every
unique of the construction progress. Besides this, the temporary construction objects such as
scaffolding, shoring and other major equipment can be connected to schedule activities and
shown in the construction plan. Furthermore, by using alternative design technique, BIM
helps designers explore how a whole building comes together, and it helps minimize the
amount of design changes during construction.
2. Improve the collaborative ofproject team.
 In construction, the information could go astray easily, especially when the work starts. BIM
ensure the stakeholder is working from the same model and that every changes are instantly
sharing to the entire team immediately. If any new member enter into the project, they will
have complete information on the project from beginning to end. Data of project changes is
always make the delays and confusion for team member and they could not make the decision
in time. BIM is solve the delivery information issues of each stage.
1. Less advantage ofBIM on smaller size project.
 In contrast to usual belief that BIM is cost effective to all of project, the smaller size project
may say otherwise. For construction firms dealing with smaller size projects, going through
the whole entire procedure of BIM implementation into the system could not be the situation.
2. Refusal to change
 Other than exterior resistance from external circumstances,organizations are also
encountering inner resistance coming within the company. Problems of lack of BIM
knowledge and skills, afraid of unpredictability and the unidentified with each other with the
resistance to change all leads to a lack of BIM execution in firms, for example who have been
comfortable with traditional method of measurement or with resistance culture, it considers
unnecessary for them to change the style of working

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7.0Computer-AidedDesign(CAD)
7.1 Briefing Stage
7.1.1 Benefits of CAD
 Accurate valuations. – CAD system could produce accurate scaled drawings. Quantity
surveyor could eliminate error in quantities and calculate accurately based on its correct scale
of the drawings. Besides, the analysis will be more in depth as it provides few variations of
alternative design with high precision.
 Provide data base for manufacturing. -When the developed dimensions of the design as well
as the determined lists of materials and specifications is available, the data can be used in the
manufacturing process.
 Sharp visualization – By using CAD system, drawings can be created in different models and
present to the client on different point of view to prevent misunderstandings and ensure they
satisfy on the final product. The size and determination can be easily adjusting from the
electronic drawings too.
7.1.2 Constraints of CAD
 High expenses- CAD software is normally costly and required regular upgrade which
incurred additional cost to the software. There is still free CAD software such as QCAD,but
for the common and main usage such as AutoCAD must be paid by the clients. Because it
may require additional services and maintenance by the organization to do some updates
according the client’s need.
 Training required- Enable users to know how to use the software effectively and efficiency.
 Lack of backup system- CAD does not have a backup system so it can’t auto save projects.
This would cause the users need to save their work manually in order to safely back it up.

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7.2 Design stage
 Flexible drawings information- By using CAD software,overlays such as electrical lines or
plumbing lines will be transparent overlays. In this way, it’s easier to check, edit and display
the drawings. Besides that, CAD do have variety of tools creating different text styles, font
format and pattern of shapes.
 High accuracy- Accurate scale of drawings in 2D or 3D drawings could be drawn by CAD at
1:1 scale.
 Easier to measure irregular shape- By using CAD, the total area irregular shape could be
measured in a faster way by just tapping the limit of all unpredictable shape.
 Requires update of skill with every release of a CAD software,the operator has to update
their skills in using the software.
 Inability to retrieve quantities for sketches- Sketches are usually made during the early design
stage and CAD cannot measure the representations.
7.3 Pre-constructionsstage
 High accuracy - CAD could allow architect to draw any desired dimension or patterns
according to scale without having any troubles. Thus, parallax error by naked eyes will be
avoided. The accuracy will be increased too because of the ‘zoom’ features of CAD.
 Provide convenience- During the pre-construction stage,drawings can be changed without
erasing and redrawing. This is because,drafting methods that use rulers, squares and
compasses is provided by CAD.
 Data managing- During this pre-construction stage,QS can easily change the cost estimates
changed by the architect and form a new cost analysis as the data is stored in CAD. These
data are all in a format system including the tendering documents.
 Unable to prepare bill of quantities- CAD does not have the function of preparing bill of
quantities. It is only used to measure quantities. Therefore,data must be transferred manually
or imported to other software to prepare bill of quantities which is time consuming. Mistakes
might occur when transferring the data from CAD to other software.

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7.4 Construction stage
 Improve communication via clarity- CAD improves communication processes. This will
improve the understanding of client about the design and measurement. The simplicity and
consistency of the output from CAD reduces misinterpretations and uncertainly in reading
plans.
 Standardize technique- CAD is following the industry standards and came out with a
standardized system. The design, drafting and documentation strategies are all standardized.
So, client will not be confused when using CAD.
 Measurement are limited- There are limitations on measurements such as we could only
measure 2D outlines like lengths or areas only based on 2D drawings. But on 3D drawings we
could measure the volume out.
 Operating expenses on site- The company financial management policies might be conflict at
construction site when using CAD. Usually CAD will increase automation expenses, it might
influence the decision of project managers who want to keep their budget low.
7.5 Post constructions stage (Other stage)
 Extra information- By using CAD,the 3D drawings will show some hidden compartments
such as wirings and some sensitive parts. With this function, maintenance work will be
carried out.
 Commonly usable- In the construction conditions now, CAD files could be used by most of
the parties who have the free file readers. Besides,many software now could open CAD files
too, so there is no limitations on reading CAD files.
 Limitation information- As CAD files only comprises of the building hardscape,there is little
to no information provided on the soft cape of a building, which includes the population
density and designated space usage. This will cause problems during when changes are to be
made to a building as CAD files do not provide the adequate visualization and information
needed.

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8.0ManualMeasurement
8.1 Briefing/Preparation Stage
8.1.1 Benefit of Manual Measurement
 Better Estimating
As the quantities which required to be measured are pre-determined, the measurement are
formed in a persistent manner and taking account into construction industry. Therefore,the
cost, value, evaluation and variation of the building works are so much easier for prediction
by using traditional methods.
 Better cost
Compare with BIM and CAD measurements,manual measurement requires only standard
stationery and papers to prepare the measurement resulting only printing costs needed.
8.1.2 Constraints of Manual Measurement
 Consumption of time
As the measurements are mostly done by hand written, it will be very time consuming in
preparing documents for both clients and contractors.
 Experience development
Quantity surveyors are expected to create an estimating cost during the early stage of tenders
preparation. However,QS with no or less experience are not capable in providing a precise
estimating cost unlike QS who gained experiences from their past projects.

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8.2 Design Stage
8.2.1 Benefits of Manual Measurement
 Flexible amendments of drawings
Drawings and measurements can be corrected and make amendments easily by using
traditional method. As clients’ requirements and specifications are very demanding, there are
lots of changing of drawings required to be made during design stage. Comparing with the
other 2 methods, it is easier to make frequent amendments in manual measurement by
communicating with clients face to face directly.
 Time consumption
Manual measurement requires a lot more time than BIM and CAD measurement as scaling
and calculation of the drawings require more manpower.
 Dimension
It is impossible for traditional approach to design a drawing in 3D providing all the figures
and scales. Advanced software is needed to design.
8.3 Pre-construction stage
 Simple saves the cost
During taking off, it is the cheapest as taking off can be done by manual measurement without
purchasing costly software such as BIM and CAD measurements.
 Understandable
It is easier for QS to explain drawings and specification to clients and contractor at all ages by
showing hard copies of the drawings. Old generations may be not understandable by looking
at the drawings in software.
 Cost of time
Extremely time consuming compare to BIM and CAD as the documents are prepared by
hands manually. Delay of construction time can be affected.

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8.4 Construction Stage
 User friendly
All quantity surveyors can produce all the required elements and documents by using manual
measurement, unlike BIM and CAD measurement which require specific training for users.
 Dimension
It can only show 2D of the drawings unlike software.
 Tension
By using manual measurement, more tension and stress can be obtained by QS compare with
BIM and CAD as it is all prepared using hands by the QS who bears all the responsibilities
and blame.
8.5 Others
8.5.1 Benefits of ManualMeasurement
 Information accessibility
It is easier for parties who involved in the projects to refer at any time even after the projects
had been done.
 Limited information
Unlike BIM and CAD measurement,it is impossible for manual measurement to provide
information beyond 2D.

29 | P a g e
9.0 References
https://www.scribd.com/document/331600463/Cubicost
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ah
UKEwjvy6OJi-
faAhVBRo8KHd8TAGQQFggxMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftechweb.exactal.com%2Fdocuments%2Fdoc
umentation%2Fmanual_3-30%2FIntro_to_CostX_v3.30.pdf&usg=AOvVaw0ZRjw8d4Jent6bcvZkdPmP
https://www.autodesk.com/redshift/building-information-modeling-top-11-benefits-of-bim/
https://www.constructionmonitor.com/blog/2015/12/03/pros-cons-of-using-a-bim-model-for-your-
next-project/
http://www.revitmodelingindia.com/the-5-worst-problems-faced-during-bim-implementation/
https://www.lopol.org/article/advantages-of-computer-aided-design-cad-over-manual-drafting
https://www.indiacadworks.com/blog/advantages-of-computer-aided-design/
https://www.cadac.com/media/1207/autodesk-navisworks-2014-brochure.pdf
https://www.autodesk.com/products/navisworks/features
http://dwf.blogs.com/beyond_the_paper/navisworks/page/2/
https://www.buildsoft.com.au/cubit
https://www.buildsoft.com.au/cubit-pricing-aud
http://www.mmp.ie/quantity-surveyor-software-buildsoft-cubit-ideal-bim/

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