This document provides information on building information modeling (BIM) software and techniques used for a university course project. It introduces BIM and discusses its benefits and applications. It also summarizes 3D modeling software Revit and CostX, outlining their pros and cons. The document includes plans and specifications for a building project and references used.

1. SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN
BACHELOR OF QUANTITY SURVEYING ( HONOURS)
Building Services & Civil Engineering Quantities
(QSB60704)
GROUP MEMBERS STUDENT ID
JANELLE CEZAR 0326611
ORLANDO WONG KUENG KHUNG 0331859
PAVITHRA 0329126
WAN YEE LEN 0330764
YONG KANG SENG 0331857
YONG SHI QI 0327539
YOONG AI TENG 0328347

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TABLE OF CONTENT
CONTENTS PAGES
1.0 BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING (BIM)
1.1 Introduction to BIM 1
1.1.2 Application of BIM 3
1.1.3 Benefits of BIM 4
2.0 3D MODELLING
2.1 Introduction of 3D Modelling 5
2.2 Advantages of 3D Modelling 6
2.3 Disadvantages of 3D Modelling 8
3.0 COSTX
3.1 Introduction of CostX 9
3.2 Pros & Cons of CostX 10
4.0 REVIT
4.1 Introduction of Revit 12
4.2 Pros & Cons of Revit 13
5.0 EXPERIENCE AND LESSON LEARNT 14
6.0 RECOMMENDATION 16
7.0 PLANS OF BLOCK D LEVEL 8
8.0 BILL OF QUANTITIES

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9.0 REFERENCE
1.0 INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING (BIM)
1.1 Introduction
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is the process of creating and managing 3D building data
during its development. BIM is a complex multiphase process that gathers input from team members to
model the components and tools that will be used during the construction process to create a unique
perspective of the building process. The 3D process is aimed at achieving savings through collaboration
and visualization of building components into an early design process that will dictate changes and
modifications to the actual construction process. It is a very powerful tool that when used properly will
save money, time and simplify the construction process.
In future construction industry is digital, BIM technology is the star player recently as technology
evolves. It’s being a new approach to quantity surveyors and we will be left out if we are still working on
our traditional way of costing and doing Bill of Quantities. Why BIM? As we know BIM stands for
Building Information Modelling, which means it creates a digital building information model describing
the physical and functional information of the building. BIM is mainly created to improve time, quality
and cost. This is because BIM data have every information to illustrate the whole building life cycle like
integrating the design in different aspects. So, all team members will be visualizing, analysing and
communicating to get information of the building, thus collaborating people, process and technology.
Besides, there are various types of BIM dimensions like 3D (object model), 4D (time),5D (cost),
6D (operation), 7D (sustainability), and even 8D (safety). As BIM is getting more developed, the
responsibilities of professional quantity surveyor is shifting to utilize the benefits of BIM. Generally there
are different BIM software with different functions ranging from software for modelling, project
management to cloud-based BIM, quantities take-off and costing. 2D drawings or 3D drawings BIM design
could be opened by these software for viewing and quantity extraction. By that, it will save a lot of time,
reduce mistakes and maximise the profit of quantity surveyor as drawings could be visualized in different
aspects. Common benefits for quantity surveyor using BIM will be accurate quantities, reduce human
errors, enhance communication and improve cost database management.

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Figure 1.1: Type of BIM Dimensions
1.2 Application of BIM

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The BIM application process can be used during design and architecture process creating a clear picture
used for better and more integrated designs. The software will be used to foresee problems and coordination
between different contractors and as a way to generate construction documents and process that will later
be implemented during the physical process. It is ideal when there are many trades executing at the same
moment or when schedules are compressed. There are multiple applications for BIM so it can be used by
the following groups:
• Architecture
• Sustainability
• Structures
• MEP
• Construction management
• Utilities
• Road construction
• Scheduling
• Property management

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1.3 Benefits of BIM
Collaboration and coordination
BIM’s cloud functionality means the approach is tailor made for collaboration. Since all stages of
a project’s lifecycle are available through the cloud, it’s possible to view projects onsite or offsite,
on any connected device. And because there’s a full version of a how a project has evolved – from
inception to the present – there’s no need to worry about files disappearing or corrupting, ensuring
more streamlined communication and collaboration between everyone.
Better visualisation
The problem with 2D design is that it doesn’t fully illustrate the necessary scope and details of a
project. The 3D modelling of BIM means every aspect of a project sits in one complete design,
where the more fine-tuned details can easily be accessed, allowing users to visualise things in a
real-world situation.
More cost effective
We touched on it before, but the risk-averse nature of BIM means it’s naturally more cost-effective
than other approaches. In other cases, a project might be at construction phase only for it to run
into an issue, resulting in costly amendments. With BIM, clash detections can be automated, so
errors can be spotted before the building phase starts.
Improved productivity
Following on from the above, the concise manner with which everything is planned pays dividends
when it comes to productivity. When you make a change to one aspect of a model, the change is
added to a corresponding 3D model, which is in turn then added to the construction plan. This
speeds up the production process and client approval times, while cutting down on labour costs as
a result.
Streamlined communication
Sometimes there’s a gulf with designers, engineers and architects when communicating with
clients who may be unfamiliar with some of the more technical terms that get brought up. To them,
a carefully planned-out blueprint might not seem particularly important or helpful. BIM helps with
communication by showing proposed work in an interactive model, breaking down things into a
more digestible way that’s more easily understood.
2.0 3D MODELLING
2.1 Introduction

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3D model is an existing integrated data model that various construction stakeholders such
as Architects, Builders, Civil Engineers, Manufacturers MEP System Engineers, MEP System
Engineers and Project Owners Structural Engineers, can extract and generate views and
information according to their needs. BIM 3D helps participants to manage their multidisciplinary
collaboration more effectively in modelling and analysing complex spatial and structural problems
which is more time saving. Besides displaying the building in three dimensions, 3D BIM's
visualizations also provide simple schedule simulation and automatically update these views along
with the project life cycle, from the earliest conception to the final stage of a building. This
animation can be used as a good marketing tool for the buyer to have a better understanding on the
construction progresses.
BIM 3D has laser scanning and ground penetration radars (GPR) conversions features that
drive an accurate site layout. Through the 3D model, projects team can observe the site condition
of the project without the real time exploring the site. BIM 3D driven prefabrication ensure the
prefabricated components will fit once on-site. Thus, moving construction work to a warehouse
environment greatly reduces the cost and the risk of slips, trips, falls, and soft-tissue injuries.
Moreover, BIM 3D has a clash detection function to spot 'clashes' at the design stage in the
construction project. The early detection can prevent the conflicts and delay happened during the
construction stage. In addition, a prototype can be building for a clearer picture on the large
projects. The construction of virtual mock up models enhance the understanding of the building
functions. 3D modelling enables the mock up being tested and revised according to cost by the
employers.

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2.1 Advantages of 3D Modelling
1. Speed
● Being able to quickly determine the existing conditions of the mine was essential during the
Chilean mine rescue, and 3D modeling was able to provide this critical speed element to the
engineers involved in the mission, according to Design World Online. 3D modeling is able to
virtually construct sites or structures faster than 2D drawings or models can. 3D Connexions
suggested 2D CAD solutions are best used for ensuring aspects of a project agree. Professionals
need to be able to correctly interpret data the first time, and 3D models leave little question about
aspects of a site or structure because they provide a more accurate picture. This means architects
and engineers don't have to spend time looking for issues in 2D drawings, allowing them to finish
their projects faster.
2. Precision and control
● 3D laser scanning collects accurate as-is data on sites, and professionals can use data sets to create
pin-point models of real spaces. This means architects and engineers don't have to spend time
measuring and re-measuring parts of a structure or site to develop a precise model. This presents
expensive mistakes from occurring by ensuring architects and engineers notice design issues or
weaknesses in the structural integrity of a site before concrete is poured or a wall is constructed.
3. Scenario visualization
● Architects and engineers can also manipulate 3D models in a way they often can't with 2D CAD
drawings. Professionals are able to test what-if scenarios with their designs in 3D, helping to
validate their plans and identify any problems with design quality. 3D renderings of designs save
architects time and money by confirming their project needs.
● In addition, these types of models can also give architects and engineers an accurate picture of how
they can change their designs if they need to. It is much easier and cheaper to alter a project in the
design stage rather than after part of the work is already completed.
4. Reduced lead times
● Due to the accuracy and flexibility of 3D models, architects and engineers are able to spend less
time on the design stage of their projects and more time on the actual completion of each task.

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Professionals are able to identify any issues ahead of time by using 3D modeling, saving them
from having to rework schedules and increase budgets.
5. Better communication
● BIM model can be used as an effective communication tool between different project
stakeholders. For an example,BIM modeling played an important role in communication
between client and planners during the planning phase. 2D documents can lead to
misunderstanding between parties involved because they do not provide a whole picture of
the project. However, with the help of BIM modeling,construction actors can
comprehensively understand the project’s details much faster;thereby a good
communication process can be established. Additionally, BIM modeling assisted the
communication process in the project review meetings during the construction phase. The
implementation of BIM modeling for planning enhanced communication leading to more
satisfied client.
2.2 Disadvantages of 3D Modelling
1. Data Intensive
3D models can be huge. 3D renders can require supercomputers to process
2. Time Intensive
Added realism requires added manpower. Modelling details can be an extremely time intensive
process
3. Incompatibility with partners

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BIM is not yet universally used among construction professionals. There is always the possibility
that one of your partners or subcontractors may not use BIM and may not be able to use your
models.
4. Legal issues
The legal ramifications of using BIM software have not yet been extensively tested, let alone
settled.
5. Cost of software
BIM software requires a substantial investment in new technology. The advantages usually make
the investment worthwhile, but only if the software is used to its full capacity.
6. Lack of experts
3D modelling software packages require considerable expertise. The relative newness of BIM
means that there are limited numbers of experts working in the field. Your software purchase may
require an additional investment in training and education.
3.0 COSTX
3.1 Introduction of CostX
CostX is a construction estimating program with an off-screen takeoff system. It was released by
Exactal in July 2004 and can be used among Quantity surveying, construction development and
more. CostX by Exactal is a cloud-based and on-premise construction estimating solution designed for
construction and property industries. Applications for multiple solutions such as flooring, roofing,
landscaping, shop fitting, structural steel, quantity surveyors and masonry are available. Key features
include 2D drawings, 3D drawings, reporting, subcontractor comparison and bid management.
CostX helps users measure counts, lengths and areas from scanned documents and computer-aided
design (CAD) drawings. With building information modelling (BIM), quantities and costs can be estimated
using digital design data. The solution offers functionality for spreadsheet-based workbooks that are linked
with drawings and cost database.

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CostX offers an auto-versioning tool that helps users compare drawings and update quantities
automatically. Additionally, a subcontractor comparison tool is also available. Users can prepare
customized reports that can include bills of quantities and cost plans. CostX is available in multiple
languages and support is provided via email, training documents, a student forum and over the phone.

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3.2 Pros of CostX
1. 3D Take-off & BIM Model
● Enables user to have a clearer visualization of 3D drawings.
● Allow QS to have more accurate estimate quantities and costs compared to traditional method.
2. Auto- revisioning
● Compare the measurement that have been extracted from previous drawing to the similar
drawings objects in the new drawing issues.
3. Sub-contractor comparison
● Generate subcontractor comparison workbook by comparing the quotation details.
● Allow QS to make comparison for the rates and sum cost and quality of each element during
tender period.
4. Paperless estimating
● Allows the user to view all the report and receive the drawing without printing any paper.
● Scan drawing into CostX and will be able to view all the measurement in the software.
● Provide an easy to use format for the users to share all their project information to their client.
5. Network capability
● Allows multiple user to work on the same project at the same time.
● Increase productivity output by shortening the time to complete a project.
● Users can make changes of their data in the software without printing any paper.
3.3 Cons of CostX
1. Additional costs for add ons
● There are many other functions that are not provided, unless they purchase CostX. Users are
required to pay extra to extend the capability of BIM tool
2. Experienced users is needed

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● In order to fully utilize this software, a company requires an experienced user to guide their
workers on this software when the company is still practicing traditional measurement method.
3. Limitation in measurement
● For example, the main reinforcement bars of the beam and column could not be detected by
using this software. Bents of mesh fabric reinforcement bars (BRC) could not be detected as
well. It may affect the accuracy of the measurement.

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4.0 REVIT
4.1 Introduction of Revit
Autodesk Revit is a Building information modelling software for Architects, Engineers, and
Designers. It allows users to design buildings and all its components in 3D, and finally annotate the model
with 2D drafting elements and access building information from the building model database. The Revit
software by Autodesk provides building information modelling (BIM) for construction projects. It is
obtainable via purchase of the Premium and Ultimate versions of Autodesk's Building Design Suite 2015,
a software portfolio of interconnected 3D design programs. In combination, the program enables builders
to construct accurate visualizations, simulations, and documentation.
The Revit software itself includes features for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural
engineering as well as architecture and building construction. It features bi-directional associative
functionality that responds to changes and applies those changes throughout the design while modelling
capabilities translate this information into images that designers and builders can use. The software also
allows multiple users to work on a single model simultaneously, a feature that works well in a collaborative
environment. Autodesk® Revit® Structure helps revolutionise typical workflows between initial
architectural conceptual design, through to structural engineering and out to detailed drafting by allowing
all parties access to the same project database.
This means that the impact and effect of model changes can be assessed immediately thereby
reducing errors as existing documentation and views are updated automatically using Revit’s parametric
technology saving time and streamlining coordination between Architects, Engineers and contractors.
Autodesk Revit Structure includes a host of parametric structural components to dramatically speed
up initial design processes and allows for multi-user access to complex models further streamlining initial
design workflow, before exporting the entire or a partial analytical model to structural analysis software
such as Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis or other popular Structural Design software and Analysis
applications.
4.2 Advantages of Revit
● Improved quality of the construction drawings.
● Reduced time to prepare the initial drawings and final construction drawings.

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● Quantities and shared properties of materials are easily extracted for cost estimating.
4.3 Disadvantages of Revit
1. Lack of Backwards Compatibility
● Revit users do not have the ability to open an older Revit model in a newer version of Revit
without performing a hard upgrade the model. This may have a much bigger impact on our
daily workflows than we might realize.
2. Unstructured data
● At the project level, Revit users inadvertently create unstructured data with every shared
parameter they create. Because each shared parameter comes with its own GUID, it means
schedules are difficult to manage with a project containing content from multiple sources.
3. No Automated Changelog
● Change management should be a high priority whenever collaborating on a team, whether it’s
software development, marketing, or BIM. Unfortunately, Revit does not provide a robust
versioning system out-of-the-box.

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5.0 EXPERIENCE AND LESSON LEARNT
There are few issues that we have encountered when we using the revit. The following will discuss
about the issues encountered:
1. Different Templates Used to Suit the Interface of the Element Required.
The problem with Revit is that is we use Architectural Template and try to draw a structural element
like a Beam, we cannot draw it to the full extent. This is because the properties lack the types of Beams
that we need, it only has a Universal Steel Beam however we need a Concrete Beam. To be able to do
structural elements fully we have to use a structural template. Since there are more than 1 person doing the
Revit, it is not practical to use Construction Template that incorporates all Architectural, Structural and
Mechanical Templates in one template. This is because, the 5 people doing Revit will need to deal with
our own expertise and deal with discrepancies found. For example, the person doing Architectural found
out that the Columns are placed wrongly or the beams have a wrong thickness, then that person can ask
the Structural person again to change those items without affecting what the Architectural person has
already placed in the Architectural Template. This is because these elements are not combined in one
template but are only “linked”.
Although Revit Link is troublesome in such a way that we have to keep linking more than 2
templates, it has the advantage of being able to change an elemental category without affecting the other.
Moreover, tasks can be done concurrently, such as in the case of the people doing fittings and the MEP
elemental categories. They only need to trace the linked Architectural plus Structural Plan into their own
templates and later on the team will merge all these templates in Navisworks. Thereby, this method
efficient in that matter deleting the need to keep on waiting for one person to complete his/her task then
passing the same file to another.
2. Lack of Family Objects Online
Every building is distinct and may not have the same characteristics of furniture and fittings. In this
project’s situation, the team could not find the required door type and armchairs for the classroom. There
are only limited options of objects not only in BIMobject website but online in general. Thus, to be able to
make the model nearly similar to the actual built environment of Taylor’s University Block D Level 8, the
team had to create our own families. Then we imported the families we created into the appropriate
templates, specifically the Architectural Template.
3. Discrepancy with Actual Measurements with Teams Doing Adjacent Floors and Blocks
The problem is the method of measurement of different teams and the properties of the building
areas. For the Basement Team doing Block D, the measured dimensions they did to provide a standard
gridline lacked further dimensions to complete our Team’s Level 8. So what we did is we still used their

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gridline until the point where we had to add our own dimensions through extending the length using the
standard grid lines provide with the Basement Team.
Another issue with the Teams doing Block D Level 8, where our team’s column must be aligned
with theirs. However, due to different methods or tools of measuring (using tape measure, Iphone
Measuring App and Laser Measure), there may be a few quantities discrepancy.
4. Template cannot be merged
We only do the ducting and piping works after the completion of Architectural and Structural plan.
However, after the completion of piping and ducting works we are not able to use revit to merged the
Architectural and Mechanical template together. Hence the troublesome method of keep on saving revit to
dwf and importing to naviswork until placement is correct. We can only use navisworks to be able to merge
them. After we merge them together, we realised that the air-cond ducting and fire fighting pipes got
placement issues. For an example, the length we were able to adjust but the offset, even if we adjust the
pipes and ceiling to proper height, in the merged model some pipes are still in line or below the ceiling. So
we have to manually adjust the offset and the lengths while referring to navisworks.
*Assumption
We assumed this is smoke detector and fixed with standard conduit
box and inclusive of connection fixed to the soffit of floor slab with saddle
support.
6.0 RECOMMENDATION
After undergoing this assignment and getting involved with the process of measuring actual
components of the entire Block D level 8 of Taylor’s University, the group has identified some
problems faced which could have been prevented if we were to do another method which are
pointed out below:
1) Using of Construction Template in Revit.
When the first person finishes drafting, which is the Structural part, the group only realized
that to be able to do Architectural components, it needs to be done using the Architectural

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Template. This is because not all the Architectural components are within the Structural Template
interface. However, the group has found out from other groups that they did theirs using the
Construction Template. In using the Construction Template, all three elements’ components are
merged already in one Template. This allows the different people to use one similar template
without the need to go through the hurdle of linking. Linking has its constraint wherein if we keep
on passing the files from one computer to another, it cannot detect the new files downloaded and
there is a possibility of re-linking. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes, when the
group tries to re-ling an error occurs and it is not possible to re-link certain templates anymore.
For example, in a Mechanical Template, the user needs to re-link Architectural Template, when
re-linking the Architectural Template cannot be seen in the options of the files which he/she
requires to link.
Also, by using link some components does not show such as wall even if it is checked in
the visibility windows. Thus it prevented the Mechanical people to align their components within
each classroom divided by the walls. These problems were resolved using Navisworks but it was
a long process, also the group has to take extra time in learning how to use Navisworks. Not only
that, but also the group has to prolong the process by the redundant actions of exporting .dwf files
whenever the templates are updated to be checked inside Navisworks.
Therefore, for prevention of discrepancies, ease of use and efficiency even though works
cannot be done concurrently, the group suggests that it is better to use Construction Template.
2) Collaborating Better with Other Groups to have a better standardized output.
There were different groups doing different levels and blocks. What every group did not
realize at first was that we all have our different methods of measuring thus our columns and walls
which should be in similar places, if merged into one model will not be aligned. Therefore, the

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group advises that even those who are not from the same group but is relevant to how the model
will be drafted, it is better to be in communication and collaboration with them. This is have a
better standardized output of dimensions.
Outside of the project brief, some other recommendations in terms of 3D modelling (generally)
which the students have found to be relevant are as follows:
1) What the group has realized is that Revit itself does not provide the best render of the
building’s materials. When doing 3D models, if the user’s purpose is to design, the group
recommends to use rendering plugins or software such as 3ds Max, Lumion and V-RAY (Export
Revit model as .dwf, Import into SketchUp and use V-RAY plugin). This is to provide a better
visualization of the actual product if the model is used for “visualization”.
2) However, in terms of technicality, in looking at 2D plans or detailed sections, line weight
is important for every drawing. This is to understand each parts of the components and prevent
confusion. If that is that case, the group proposes the collaboration of Revit and AutoCAD.
AutoCAD itself can allow the users to edit the line weights easily by creating different layers with
different line weights. Thus, what some professionals usually do is that they first draft the plan
into AutoCAD and then further
In conclusion, Revit is a technical software that allows 3-Dimensional Collaboration and provides
a strict drafting of drawings. Due to this strictness, it has a lot of limitations that prevent users to
complete a complex detailed model. Sometimes, it does not snap lines which should be connected.
Also, if talking about rendering, the level of render Revit provides is animated level and not
realistic. Moreover, in terms of collaboration between more than 1 person, there is bound to have
complications especially with the linking and alignment of different components. However, this
limitation of Revit can be solved by using multiple types of software which specializes in different
functions. For Navisworks, it allowed the merging of the files and allow to check on the alignment
of different components within different templates.

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REFERENCE
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All3DP (22 September 2019). 2019 Best 3D Modeling Software/ 3D Design Software. Available
from: https://all3dp.com/1/best-free-3d-modeling-software
-3d-cad-3d-design-software/ (Accessed: 24 October 2019)
McPartland, R (10 July 2017). What is BIM? Available from:
https://www.thenbs.com/knowledge/bim-dimensions-3d-4d-5d-6d-bim-explained
(Accessed: 24 October 2019)
Sequoyah (2014). BIM & 3D Modeling. Available from:
http://www.sequoyah.com/service/preconstruction/bim-and-3d-modeling (Accessed: 24
October 2019)