The document compares the functions and limitations of various BIM QS computer software programs including Glodon, Buildsoft, Vico, and CostX. Glodon is recommended due to its professional management tools that provide accurate data for decision making, its ability to quickly model and generate quantity takeoffs from BIM drawings to accommodate design changes, and its widespread use among QS professionals in the region. The document also compares the benefits and constraints of BIM, CAD, and manual measurements across various construction project stages. BIM provides improved visualization, feasibility analysis, and site understanding during preparation. However, its high costs and lack of standardization present constraints. CAD offers accurate valuations and visualization but has expenses for upgrades

2. Part A: Compare the functions and limitation of
BIM QS computer software:-
- Glodon
- Buildsoft
- Vico
- Cost X
Summary and recommendation

3. ● Known as TAS.
● Is a measurement tool for QS in construction field.
● Utilize environment data to 3D Visualization effect.
● Enable modeling BIM drawing directly from DWG or PDF files.
● It allow user to carry out measurement calculation.
● Or adjusting model for variation calculation.

4. Function
● Professional management tool - Provide accurate information for decision
making (cost).
● Quick modeling & BIM-based quantity takeoff - Allow direct editing (DWG,IFC)
to erect 3D model.
● The ideal data interface, accurate model data - Merge with international
format.
● Project management for 5D BIM - Support web and mobile to inquire 5D
information anytime.
● Takeoff products with high market share - Core source for BIM application.

5. Limitation
● Cost
● Expensive to require full function of BIM product.
● Management and maintenance fee.
● Software operation update fee for new features.
● Cost is the biggest limitation for Glodon.

6. BUILDSOFT is an Australian company in Sydney serving the construction in
around the world that established in 1985. Its main function is estimating software
for the building and construction industry.
Buildsoft Global Estimating is the software program for commercial use in the
building and construction industry. It produces Bills of Quantities or detailed
Estimates and Cost Plans. Besides, it allows users to validate and cross-reference
the estimating and takeoff at any stages. There are 3 types of products in Buildsoft
which are cubit, Estimating series and Mudshark.

7. Function
1. Update estimation efficiently
Collect pricing information and save in template price list to control the prices
jobs, ensuring accuracy and maximizing profitability over the company. Any of
updates in further, template price list and jobs is able to push into estimates
so information is the latest.
2. One seamless process
Specialized estimating system with flexible functionality which integrates take
off with estimating make users work the way they think.
3. Zero errors
Pinpoint accurate takeoff from any angle in 3D drawing no matter how
complex is the drawing by tracing directly over imported plans. Without
second doubt of their own skill, work can be easily done in fast and accurate.

8. 5. Greater control, insights and analysis
It is handy if jobs are grouped together and make more visibility. Codes the
estimating allows users to differentiate formats and giving a quick or breakdown a
job by cost code or material.
4. Easily view and edit plan
Clearly differences occurs when takeoff already
done and save countless hours. This may be
avoiding the overlapping taking off in the same
phase. It allows editing plans as part of the
revision process.

9. Limitation
1. High utility bills
Buildsoft is latest software which also requires the latest internet connection
and huge installation fee. Facility fee is also involved although does not
involve in the software but must exist such as photocopying, mailing, faxing
and etc.
2. Typing errors
Buildsoft does not detect typing errors like computer. It has to depend on
manpower to check the errors especially in BQ (Bill of Quantities) will take
more time and focuses to type into the computer.
3. Virus attack
Existing of Buildsoft must with antivirus due to attacking of the virus to the
computer system will also affect the contents. Data might lost and may be
can’t recovered by any means.

10. Vico Software
● provide construction software and services.
● Building owners, general contractors and construction managers.
● To coordination, quantity takeoff, cost estimation, project scheduling and
production control.
Function
1. Clash detection - VIco Constructability Manager
● To identify clashes
● Mix and match
● Design and save
● Examine the clash
● Prepare Constructability Analysis Report

11. 2. Layout - Vico Layout Manager
● Plot out the point and transfer data.
● Allow to add very accurate Layout Points.
● Export the Layout Points.
● Easily mark points with the integration with Trimble gear.
● Validate the actual field points.
3. Quantity Takeoff - Vico Takeoff Manager
● Generate quick and highly accurate model.
● Extract location-based quantities from BIM models.
● Filter and classify.
● Get accurate quantity takeoffs.
● Generate quantity takeoff reports.

12. 4. Scheduling and Production Control - Vico schedule planner & Vico LBS
Manager
● Used for scheduling which allow integrating model-based quantity takeoff
information with resource quantities and projecting location to create optimized
schedule.
● Design schedule without increasing any risk
● Used to define location structure & alternate location structure
● Maintain persistent location structures
5. Estimating - Vico Cost Explorer & Vico Cost Planner
● Visually see the budget as a 3D model
● Compare 2 or 3 budget/design options side-by-side
● Gradually plan the cost from “idea” to “pre-construction”
● Rapidly create cost plan
Limitation
● Only one model file can be operated at one time

13. CostX software
● Is a construction estimating program with an off-screen takeoff system.
● It was released by Exactal in July 2004.
● It can be used among Quantity surveying, construction development and
more.
Function
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.

14. 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.

15. Limitations
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
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.

16. Compare and Recommendation
Table of summary

17. Compare and Recommendation
● Recommendation: Glodon
● REASONS:
1. Professional management tools
- Provide accurate data and information for decision making.
- Save cost, time and improve the quality of the construction project.
2. Quickly modelling and BIM-based quantity takeoff
- Enable QS to cope with various design changes.
- Produce the quantity takeoff quickly.
3. Nation-wide takeoff software
- Most the QS using same BIM computer software.
- Increase the collaboration of work to others QS which using the same BIM
computer software.

18. Part B: Compare benefit and constraints of Building
Information Modelling(BIM), CAD measurement
and manual measurements:-
1. Preparation stage
2. Design Stage
3. Pre-construction Stage
4. Construction Stage
5. Post-construction / Other Stage

19. Preparation Stage : Benefit
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. Improve visualisation
- Establish the 3D model of
the building.
- Allow the client to have a
better understanding.
- To ensure the building
design reach the client’s
requirement.
2. Feasibility Study
- Able to evaluate different
design option of the
building.
- Less time consumed.
3. Better understanding of
the site analysis
- Easily access to site
information with aerial
imagery and digital
elevation.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. Accurate valuations
- Accurate scaled drawings
which eliminate error in
quantities take off
- the analysis will be more
in depth as variation of
alternative design with
high precision.
2. Sharp visualization
- Created model to prevent
misunderstandings and
achieve satisfaction.
3. Provide storage and
database
- When information is
available and confirmed,
the database could be
formed and stored on a
single disk.
MANUAL MEASUREMENT
1. Cost Effective
- Printing cost
- Low initial software cost
- Low training cost

20. Preparation Stage : Constraints
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. High investment cost in
BIM software
- Expensive BIM software
- Construction company
need o have enough
financial support for the
software.
2. Lack of standardization
- Different operation way of
the business at every
building process
- Cause inconsistent
performance.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. High expenses
- costly and required
regular upgrades
- Client bare the AutoCAD
cost to do some updates
according the client’s
need.
2. No backup system
- Does not have the
autosave system.
- Constantly save manually
to ensure the data is
secured and saved.
3. Training needed
- Allow them to master and
understand the software
and function it properly
MANUAL MEASUREMENT
1. Time consuming in
preparing documents.
- Low output by preparing
manually
2. Unable to produce cost
plan
- Advice on budgeting
based on cost plan.

21. Design Stage : Benefit
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. Better representation and visualization
of architect’s design
- Enable them to put all the information
correctly.
2. Resolve Conflict
- Able to discover design errors in the early
stage of design.
- Save time and cost.
3. Reduce usage of material
- Provide accurate quantity of total
materials required
4. Increase the efficiency of work
- Speed up preparation process.
5. Bills of Quantity
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. Flexible drawing information
- Overlays such as electrical lines or plumbing
lines will be seen as transparent overlays.
2. High accuracy
- Accurate scale of drawings in 2D or 3D
drawings could be drawn
3. Easier to measure irregular shape
- irregular shape could be measured in a faster
way by just tapping the limit of all unpredictable
shape.
4. Gain more profit – CAD providing many
shortcuts in calculation comparing to manual
calculation, thus the QS firm could pick up more
projects and handle additional scope of work.

22. Design Stage : Constraints
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. Require high
performance computer
- BIM software occupies
large space of memory on
the computer
- Affect to work speed.
- Need to keep upgrade the
computer.
2. Data can be modified
- Data can be modified by
suppliers and contractor.
3. Training to employees
- Training to construction
member
- To ensure enhance their
understanding and enable
them to use BIM.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. ‘Polyline issue’
- drawing is given in
polyline, there will be less
usage of CAD.
2. Difficulties to quantify
sketches
- couldn’t measure
sketches .
3. Changes have to be
updated manually.
- CAD changes have to be
make manually unlike
BIM will be automatically
update.
MANUAL MEASUREMENT
1. Difficult to visualize the
design of project
- Based on 2D elevation
drawing to interpret
design
2. Time consuming in
measurement
- Wasting manpower in
measurement.
- Changes needed to be
updated in timely manner
to ensure measurement is
correct and reduces
variation arises

23. Pre-construction Stage : Benefit
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. More accurate
estimations
- Enable estimators to
identify and extract the
quantities and spaces
require.
- Enable the estimator to
produce a reliable and
accurate cost estimates in
early design stage.
2. Reduce the number of
reworks
- Able to identify potential
problem occur.
- Less omissions and
errors make.
3. Constructability
Analysis
- Enable the project team
performs detailed
constructability analysis.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. Provide convenience
- drawings can be changed
without erasing and
redrawing
2. Data managing
- QS can easily change the
cost estimates.
3. High accuracy - CAD
could allow architect to
draw any desired
dimension or patterns
according to scale without
having any troubles.
MANUAL MEASUREMENT
1. Cost effective
- Only require basic
measurement knowledge
in taking off element.
- Printing charges
2. Familiarity of project
- Clear image is developed
when doing manual
measurement
3. Flexibility
- Taking off can be done
even if there are
downtime of electrical
supply or internet
interferences due to the
facts that no softwares
are being used.

24. Pre-construction Stage : Constraints
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. Disruptive
- Disrupt the general
construction process for
ordering the materials.
- Changes of design.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. Limitation to prepare BQ
- Limit to just measure the
amounts. Quantity
Surveyor has to transfer
the data manually to other
software to prepare BQ.
MANUAL MEASUREMENT
1. Time consuming
- Request information
- Manual taking off
elements( numerous
drawings)
2. Unable to identify error
- Error or discrepancies of
design cannot be
detected
3. Human errors
- Workload is high,
chances getting errors
high.
- Chances of missing
elements and errors is
high due to number of
elements need to be
taken-off is high.

25. Construction Stage : Benefit
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. Improve the
collaborative among
project team
- Able to share the same
information.
- More effectively to
communicate the ideas
and actions.
2. Control the cost and
save time
- Help the project team to
control the cost whitn the
budget.
3. Site Coordination
- Useful for contractor in
site planning.
- Help contractor to identify
potential hazards.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. Improves
communication
- better communication as
the errors and uncertainty
will be reduced.
2. Standardize technique
– CAD is following the
industry standards and
came out with a
standardized system. The
design, drafting and
documentation strategies
are all standardized.
MANUAL MEASUREMENT
1. Document Presentation
- Document can be compile
securely and consistently.
- Any progress payment
can be supported by
picture in hard copy to
facilitate the approval of
progress payment by the
client.

26. Construction Stage : Constraints
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. Incompatibility with
partners
- Not every construction
company willing to invest
on BIM.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. Measurements are limited
– There are limitations on
measurements such as
we could only measure
2D outlines like lengths or
areas only based on 2D
drawings.
2. Operating expenses on
site
- CAD usually build
robotized costs,
increasing the automation
expenses. Thus there is a
financial conflict on site
when using CAD as the
site managers will want to
keep their budget low.
MANUAL MEASUREMENT
1. Time consuming
- Solving variation arises,
getting approval and
consent from consultant
team
- Site valuation for
progress payment, getting
clarification and
information from
contractor.
2. Cost Control
- Lack of a proper cost
planning system to detect
cost overruns before
completion.

27. Post-construction/ Other Stage : Benefit
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. Facilities Management
- Help facilities and maintenance team
have a better understanding of the
building.
2. Simplified the switching from one
facility manager to another
- BIM create incentive for new facilities
manager to perform better.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. 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
easier.
2. Commonly usable

28. Post-construction/ Other Stage : Constraints
BIM MEASUREMENT
1. Training required to
facilities and
maintenance team
- Not all member under
facilities and maintenance
team know how to use
BIM.
- Training needed for them
to update and maintain
the information of BIM
model.
CAD MEASUREMENT
1. Limited information
- limitation on getting the
building softscape such
as population density and
designated space usage
because normal CAD
could only get information
about building hardscape.
Thus, CAD couldn’t
provide enough
information for the
changes made in building
softscape.
MANUAL MEASUREMENT
1. Time consuming in
preparation of final
account
- Adjust contract sum
manually
2. Problem arises from
contractual claims
- Lack of communication
and collaboration
between consultant and
contractor
- Unable to identify and
resolve claims earlier and
leads to more claims and
unnecessary cost
incurred.