Software application report

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part Title Page
A
1. Introduction 2
2. CostX 3-7
3. Buildsoft 8-10
4. Glodon Cubicost 11-13
5. Vico 14-15
6. Summary 16-17
7. Recommendation 18
B
8. Preparation/Briefing Stage 19-20
9. Design Stage 21-22
10. Pre-Construction Stage 23-24
11. Construction Stage 25-26
12. Post-Construction Stage 27-28
C 13. Reference 29-30
Taylor’s University | Software Application for Quantity Surveying | Group Project 1

Part A:
1. Introduction
In this era of globalization, there is actually tons of information, knowledge, and technology that
has been shared and spread widely across the globe. In the perspective of the construction industry,
Building Information Modeling(BIM) has been introduced to ease the creation and management of
digital representations. With the existence of BIM, the hassle for the process of designing a building is
minimized as it can be done with just any BIM softwares rather than using separate sets of drawings.
Also, one of the main reason BIM’s name is up there is due to being able to share with other parties in a
construction project. Construction companies favor this with the sole purpose of improving time, cost
and quality.
On a global basis, BIM adoption can vary significantly by region or by country. In certain
countries, companies would take an active role in adopting this BIM by mandating in both public and
private projects. Nowadays since conserving energy as well as carbon emissions is essential on a global
basis, adopting BIM tools and practices should be a high priority, because it can significantly affect the
efficient use of the valuables and lack of resources.
Every software that is under BIM has its own greatness and benefits, depending on what a
company favors more in terms of simplicity and functionality. Therefore, our group has decided to do a
research on 4 BIM softwares that will later be evaluated and compared in an in-depth manner to ensure
that we have valid reasons to support the software we would recommend out of the 4. The 4 softwares
that we have chosen to talk about is CostX, Buildsoft Cubit, Glodon, and Vico.

2.0 CostX
CostX is a construction digital takeoff software which is developed by Exactal and there is a total of 7
specialised CostX products in the company like CostX 2D and CostX Takeoff 2D which work with 2D
digital drawings. There are CostX and CostX Takeoff in the market; both of them are capable of
integrating with BIM and 3D models to produce quantities automatically. However, only CostX can
provide us the full capabilities of BIM estimating software and powerful features such as Auto-Revise
and 3D model quantity take-off. The general functions of CostX also include coupling with a costing
library which permits an instant cost figure and recalculation when variations are being made.
2.1 Features
a) 2D Take off & 3D Take off
Quantities can be acquired by on-screen measurement from both 2D and 3D drawings. Measurement can
be carried out easily and accurately by ‘point and click’, it eliminates problem of taking off repeatedly as
areas that had been measured will be clearly highlighted (Figure 1.0). The details of the dimension
measured will be displayed in a textbox when the cursor is held over the dimension (Figure 1.1).

Figure 1.0 Figure 1.1
b) 3D Projection
Dimension from a 2D drawing can be easily displayed in 3D by simply clicking the button ‘View in
3D’. This function can gives a clear picture of how the building looks like to the users which then helps
them to visualize and understand the drawing easily.

Figure 1.3
Figure 1.4
Figure 1.5
c) Ability to support various types of files and 3D model/BIM
CostX supports a variety of BIM files including files from Revit, ArchiCAD, Microstation, Tekla,
Mudshark, SketchUp and all other major BIM design packages. Not only that, it also allows extraction
of data and measurement to be carried out easily from a range of 2D drawings including CAD files,
PDFs, DWF, DGN, SWG and scanned files such as JPGs, GIFs or TIFs without the trouble of altering
the files.
d) Production of reports and estimates
CostX has the function of generating estimates and reports from the estimation with ease. They can be
viewed from the ‘Report’ under workbook.

Figure 1.6
Figure 1.7
Figure 1.8
e) Eco-friendly
CostX is one of the software that promote go-green by allowing reports and estimates to be viewed
without any printing of paper. The whole course of measuring and estimating is done by using electronic
device from the moment when drawings are received by email.
f) Auto-revisioning
Dimensions including all area, length and count dimension from the previous drawings are compared to
the new drawing issue automatically, the same drawing objects in the two drawings will be detected and
there will be a display for adjustment and acceptance by the user. The dimension group quantities will
then update once the revised dimension are accepted. All changes are schedules in a Revision Log.

Figure 1.9 Drawing revision log
g) Comparison of sub-contractor
CostX also has the ability to sort out the base estimate into work packages and can be exported as CostX
tender files which can be opened in CostX Viewer or Excel tender files. Figures received back from
sub-contractors can be imported instantaneously into the previous file instead of manually re-keyed. The
sub-contractors’ quotation details can be compared against each other and the original tender budgets by
managing all the sub-contractors’ work packages in one file. This sub-contractor comparison system can
effectively helps QS to make comparison of the rates and sum cost and award the best sub-contractor
based on their capabilities and the proposed rates.
Figure 1.10
Figure 1.11

Figure 1.12
2.2 Limitations
a) 3D Projections for windows
One of the weak point of CostX is the window illustration is on the bottom of the ground. Thus, it is a
hinder to the contractor on pricing the rate of fixing because they do not know the exact height
allowance for the window to be placed. This will cause the contractor to incur more compared to the
estimated budget cost as the rate of labour to fix the window at a high area and a lower area is different.
b) Rebar detection
CostX is unable to detect the main reinforcement bars which are located in the column, it can measure
the reinforcement bars in a beam in the sectional view only. In addition, it also cannot measure the bents
for mesh fabric reinforcement (BRC). Therefore, it is advised to take the length from the edge to another
edge of the surface of slab for BRC. Thus, it may cause the BRC to be over-measured.

3.0 Buildsoft
Buildsoft is a software with standard estimating capability that offers several types of products which are
Cubit, Mudshark, Global and Bartender. All of them are suitable for a wide range of users including
estimators, engineers, builders, contractors and quantity surveying. Estimating and takeoff can be done
in one seamless process efficiently and accurately.Perform quantity takeoffs from PDF, CAD (DWG,
DXF), BIM, (DWFx) and image files.
3.1 Main features of Cubit
a) 3D Takeoff
Cross referencing thus no item will be missed; check all the openings in any angle.
Figure 2.1 Takeoff with 3D view
b) Referencing
Reference any cell, a range of cells, a row in estimate, and even among different job or price list.
Figure 2.2 Referencing example job
c) Price lists
Collate the price of all the common trades and item in a template and save them for next estimate.

Figure 2.3 Price items
d) Job analysis
Provide the ability to analyse quickly or breakdown a job by cost code and material after sorting data
into different formats.
e) Automatic plan revisions
Revisions to plans are overlaid with existing plan so that changes can be edited to update estimate
f) Reporting
All reports can be generated and printed in a range of reports like trade, markup, rate and takeoff.
3.2 Main features of Bartender
Bartender offers features which help to do subcontractor management and cost comparison program.
a) Multi-user functionality
With this feature, members from different team can work together at the same time.
b) Visual comparison displays
The picked suppliers, the cheapest and average quotes are compared and evaluated to your estimate at
once.
c) Note taking
Note taking helps to enhance communication among the team and add notes to trades packages so that
important information is easily accessible.
d) Integrated management review
Bartender allows the submitted quotes to be compared against one another; it also has the function of
identifying risk areas and accurately evaluates a quote.
e) Multiple quotes
There is no limit to the number of quotes you can add for comparison.
Figure 2.5 Trade packages

3.3 Main features of Global
a) 4 Level Estimating System
Similar to manual estimating methods which have 4 stages that are job summary, trade breakup,
calculation sheet and rate breakup.
b) Price lists
The rate from a pricelist can be transferred into a tender document of a job.
c) Job Analysis
Extracting part of the item from a BQ of a job and converting the elemental bill into trades bill.
d) Progress Claims
Claim job by percentage and claim reports can be printed out.
e) Integration with Cubit
f) Cell referencing
3.4 Main features of Mudshark
It is a on screen takeoff software mainly designed for earthwork estimates. The materials for earthwork
projects can be calculate, track and analyse in a fully 3D environment.
a) Smart 3D takeoff tools, enabling rapid data input
b) Multiple boring solid modelling
c) Fully interactive 3D visualisation
d) Integrations with leading estimating systems & Microsoft Excel
e) Multiple file type support (import PDF, CAD, DWG, DXF)
f) Configurable estimating format – metric or imperial
g) 3D cross section calculations – build, break down and examine sites
Figure 2.6 Earthwork takeoff with 3D view
3.5 Limitation
a) Permanently deleted
There is no undo function in this software, any amendment that are being done cannot be reversed.
Therefore, users have to be very careful when editing the file.
b) No review for Building Modelling
Users have to refer the hard copies of architectural and structural drawing when they need to see the
layout of the building as the software does not offer building modelling neither in 2D view nor 3D view.

4.0 Glodon
Glodon Company Limited is founded in 1998 in Beijing, China. The products of Glodon have been
widely used in such three major sectors which are house building, industrial engineering and
infrastructure. It helps quantity surveyor in various stages of construction such as cost estimating, value
engineering, project tendering, tender bidding, project post contract administration and final account
re-measurement. The Glodon BIM software available in the market includes Cubicost Takeoff for Rebar
(TRB), Cubicost Takeoff for Mechanical and Electrical (TME) and Cubicost Takeoff for Architecture
and Structure (TAS). 3D measurement and calculation rules like British Standards and UBBL are
available in the software to standardize the way users carry out taking off. Less data and formulae are
required to insert in calculation of the quantity, therefore the probability of error occurs are lower.
4.1 Main Features of Cubicost Takeoff for Rebar (TRB)
TRB is the only quantity takeoff software embedded with local measurement methods and it extracts the
quantities of rebar by importing local BQ and extracting rebar quantities to generate reports quickly. It
also synchronizes data with Glodon BQ which helps to improve the efficiency of generating tender
documents.
a) Calculation with details breakdown and produce Rebar Schedule for fabrication on site
b) Import 3D model from TAS to calculate rebar quantities
c) Produce 3D model by identifying CAD entities
d) Perform deductions automatically based on structural joints and rebar connections in BIM model
Figure 3.1 Rebar in 3D model with detail

4.2 Main Features of Cubicost Takeoff for Mechanical and Electrical (TME)
TME is mainly designed for 6 disciplines which are Plumbing & Sanitary, Heating & Gas, Fire Service,
Extra Low Voltage, Electrical and Air Conditioning & Ventilation.
a) Different elements can be intelligently identified and differentiated
b) All pipelines of the same model can be calculated quickly by simply clicking a button
c) Provide appropriate measurements of material like joints, length, overweight length, surface area,
support and support weight for pipework
d) Lengths and runs can be identified automatically from the drawing, allowing for services like
electrical tray, plumbing, sprinklers or HVAC to be taken off quickly
e) Multiple logos are used to represent different accessories
Figure 3.2 Sanitary ware of a building
4.3 Main Features of Cubicost Takeoff for Architecture and Structure (TAS)
TAS is software that has successfully passed the building SMART certification; it is used to take off
quantity of architecture and structure. TAS is different with TRB where it is embedded with
Commonwealth of England calculation rules.
a) Open functions, easy to operate
b) Open locations, which enables manual tracing, locate quickly and convenient modelling
c) Open rules, which allow adjustments of calculation rules and special options of calculation settings
based on actual projects to meet all quantity surveying requirements
d) Open elevation, which enables easy processing of buildings with complex structures such as
staggered floor, mezzanine floor and skipped floor.

Figure 3.3 Column, beam and slab in different colour
4.4 Limitations
a) Expensive
It is very costly to purchase the license of Glodon software, therefore many of the QS firm would rather
choose to use other BIM- based taking off software like CostX and Vico as it is much cheaper even
though two of them are not as good as Glodon.
b) Not familiarized by many construction players
Glodon is still considered new in the construction market, there are lack of experts who can make good
use of the software. Training is required for the staffs that are going to work with the software. Not only
that, it is facing problem like updates and improvement frequently since it is a new software, it is not
completely stable yet.

5.Vico Software
Vico software provides services like coordination, quantity takeoff, cost estimation, project scheduling
and production control. It helps to reduce risk, manage costs, and optimize schedules on complex
building projects. The products under Vico office include Vico Constructability Manager, Vico Layout
Manager, Vico takeoff Manager, Vico LBS Manager and so on. It also launched 5D virtual construction
software which consists of 2D drawings, 3D BIM models for 4D model-based scheduling and 5D
model-based estimating. Vico supports file such as Tekla, ArchiCAD, Revit, IFC and even SketchUp.
5.1 Main features
a) Vico Document Controller
2D contract documents are compared with 3D model versions for the final accuracy check and any
additions or deletions.
b) Vico Constructability Manager
Constructability issues are identified at the planning stage and coordination solution or integrated
solution will be provided so that problems occur at the site can be minimised.
c) Vico Layout Manager
Few of the important points in the drawing are mapped to their corresponding points at the site to speed
up installation and avoid costly rework occurs.
d) Vico Takeoff Manager
With 3D model drawing, quick and high accuracy of quantity takeoff can be achieved. Changes have to
be manually added or subtracted from the 3D model for quantity calculations to be carried out.
Furthermore, Vico cost planner and Schedule Planner can takeoff data by location automatically. Thus,
the result of the cost planning and schedules will be more accurate as no data is required to export or
import.

e) Vico LBS Manager
Vico LBS Manager is dividing the project into work locations so that a good project schedule can be
produced. This is because it optimizes location-based planning and management which allows the trade
crews to flow smoothly without interference. LBS manager can recalculate the quantities and do
amendment without going back for the BIM application.
f) Vico Schedule Planner
It helps to create schedules by combining the function of Vico Takeoff Manager, Vico Cost Planner and
Vico LBS Manager; distributing tasks, corresponding materials, machinery and labour; which all of
them are optimised by location.
g) Vico Production Controller
This feature is designed for the on-site production phase, its purpose is to get real time production
updates from the site. It enables forward-looking schedule forecast so that problem can be discovered
and solved with enough time.
h) Vico Cost Planner
The quantities from Takeoff Manager will be transferred here to get highly accurate amount in
estimating within a short period. This feature also provides cost feedback from the design phase to the
close out phase. Important and reusable projects data are being saved for further usage.
i) Vico Office Client
Model versions are managed; the information like constructability reports, cost- and resources -loaded
schedules, proposed design changes, cost estimates, cash flow reports are shared among the team.
5.2 Limitation
Inefficient
The overall process will be longer as Vico Software can only operate one model at a time. Hence, it is
inefficient to use Vico Software in producing project document.

6. Summary
6.1 CostX
CostX enables one to quickly and accurately take off quantities from 2D drawings and generate
automatic quantities from 3D models / BIM using the most advanced electronic takeoff system
available. Prepare estimates, bills of quantities and tenders easily and all in a fraction of the time and
cost. CostX is Exactal’s top-of-the-range product where more companies are using CostX for their
complete estimating solution and are demonstrating strong returns on their investment. It can reduce take
off time by up to 80%. Supports a range of 2D drawings, including scanned, PDF or CAD. CostX can
measure areas, lengths and counts with a single click. It also supports BIM by using digital design data
to accurately estimate quantities and costs. Powerful spreadsheet based workbooks are live-linked to the
drawings. Unique revision mode compares drawings and highlights the changes and subcontractor
comparison workbooks can be generated with associated reports. Report writer produces customised
professional reports and codes & zones which allow work to be sorted and regrouped.
6.2 Buildsoft
Cubit is a specialised estimating system with flexible functionality that allows one to estimate the way
you want. It’s the only application that seamlessly integrates takeoff with estimating for an all-in-one
solution. This makes it up to three times faster than other software packages. Pinpoint accurate takeoff
with a view from any angle. By tracing directly over your imported plans, simple or complex quantity
takeoffs are performed quickly and accurately. One can also collect pricing information and save them
as template price lists (or even import supplier price lists) to control how your company prices jobs,
ensuring accuracy and maximising profitability. Within Cubit, one has the ability to generate and print a
range of professional reports including trade, markup, rate, takeoff, and Bills of Quantities.
Customisable reporting allows one to quickly hide and show various items, making it easy to share
different elements of the estimate with a range of people. All reports can be exported in a range of
common formats.
6.3 Glodon
Cubicost provides the construction industry with a highly efficient, precise and convenient BIM
integrated solution. This software stands out in a sense that it does not only apply to global calculation
rules, but it can also be applied to local calculation rules. Furthermore, highly realistic 3D models that
contain vast amounts of data can be created and cutting-edge technology that deals with multiple
variations can be used.

6.4 VICO Software
Vico’s next generation 5D BIM solution was created for increased demand for efficiency, shorter
delivery times, and higher quality. Vico Office is purpose-built for construction, and is designed as a
tightly-integrated, BIM-neutral platform to which multiple types of BIM models can be published,
synthesized, and augmented with cost and schedule information. To maximize efficiency and meet the
distinctive needs of the various construction process trades and phases, Vico Office is structured in a
modular way, providing you with a tailored, yet expandable solution and a consistent, easy to use
environment. Using Vico Office, building owners and general contractors can collaborate efficiently,
improve predictability, reduce risk, manage cost, and optimize schedules on large, complex building
projects. We believe our integrated construction management software offers project teams the
flexibility to specialize their disciplines (modeling, scheduling, estimating) and still collaborate
(coordination, budgeting, and project control with all stakeholders).
Feature Vico Glodon CostX Buildsoft Cubit
Simplicity X
One 3D model at a time
✓ ✓ X
Uses manual input
Paperless estimating ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Produce Bill of Quantities X ✓ ✓ ✓
But only for the Pro
Version
3D Taking-off ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Architect/engineer friendly X X X X
Able to read different
types of drawings
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Support multiple file
format
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Free student license X ✓ ✓ ✓

7. Recommendations
To be honest, there is no such thing as the best software for BIM because different people has
different opinions. Also, BIM can be broken down into the perspective of quantity surveying,
architecture, project management and so on. As for us, of course our main focus would be quantity
surveying. But to come to a conclusion to pick which one we would recommend, we would pick
Glodon. We would pick Glodon not because we think it is the best out of all the options we have, but we
pick it due to the fact that it suits our likings better as we work efficiently and well on it compared to the
rest.
Besides that, the professional side of agreeing with Glodon being our recommended software is
because it is a professional management tool that helps us all to provide accurate data and information.
With the benefit of this professional management tool, we can save so much time and cost as well as
improve the quality of our construction project.
Another advantage for Glodon is that it helps us QS to cope with the changes of design and
come out with the quantity take-off quickly just by just adjusting the model information. This is due to
its ability to do “quick modeling” and because of it being a BIM-based quantity takeoff software.
Also, Glodon is well known nation-wide which means that it is pretty favorable to companies in
the construction industry. Hence, this can help us collaborate with other quantity surveyors that uses
Glodon as well. It helps to ease the job so much better and faster with the use of the common software
that most QS companies would own.

Part B:
8.0 Preparation / Briefing Stage
8.1 Building Information Modelling (BIM)
8.1.1 BIM Benefits
a. Better visualization
- Through BIM, this is possible to visualize future buildings much more concretely than on plans
and have a clearer insight into the project. Then, a presentation will be given to the client; the
client will then offer thoughts on design and adjustment will be made before the model is ready
to enter the design phrase.
b. Good outcome through collaboration
- Acts as a sharing and collaborating platform - project data and models are easier than with using
drawing sets, as there are a lot of functions that are possible only through a digital workflow.
Besides, peers can coordinate integration through review and markup steps to ensure that
everyone understand and the evolution of design.
8.1.2 BIM Constraints
a. Software and training costs
- The use of BIM requires significant training and as with the software investment on continual
licensing. A contractor may need to upgrade its computer system to effectively use the BIM
software.
b. Lack of expertise
- Only small range numbers of experts are working in the field. Even some universities are
providing the course to students, however, the amount are not fulfilled the current market
condition.
8.2 CAD Measurement
8.2.1 CAD Benefits
a. Visualization
- 3D CAD designs can be made to look realistic to show the client the simulated environments.

b. Accuracy
- CAD helps the designer to automatically check if the design is within the specification. It
enables the clients to view the designs at an earlier stage in the design process and it helps the
clients to check the progress of functional and semi-functional prototypes.
8.2.2 CAD Constraints
a. Software and training costs
- Same as BIM, CAD required to purchase the software license and continual need for updating
software or operating systems.
b. Computer problems
- Information can be instantly lost if the computer got crashes, power down, hacked or corrupted
by viruses. No automatic backups available if these problems happened.
8.3 Manual Measurement
8.3.1 Manual Measurement Benefits
a. No training is required
- As every quantity surveyor who graduated from universities are able to produce manual
measurements. Manual method is more convenient than using software which required technical
skills and extra training to master it.
b. No additional investment needed
- This method is most cheapest among the BIM and CAD software that required to purchase on
software license and update for new version of computer.
8.3.2 Manual Measurement Constraints
a. Storage Space required
- All manual drawings needed a greater space to keep for any measurement usage.
b. Time Consuming
- Manual measurement needed longer time for surveyors to identify, scale and measure based on
the printed drawings with the basic tools – scale rule and calculator. This takes more effort for
the surveyors as everything in manually.

9.0 Design Stage
9.1 Building Information Modelling
9.1.1 BIM Benefits
a. High Quality
- BIM allows for flexibility in the exploration and changes to the project or documentation
process at any time without any hassle to the design team. This results to minimize coordination
time and manual checking that enables the design team to have more time solving real
architectural problems.
b. Greater Speed
- BIM allows design and documentation to be done concurrently instead of serially. Schedules,
diagrams, drawings, estimating, value engineering, planning, and other forms of work can be
done concurrently while work is progressing.
c. Dive into Detail
- The model is a great end point for a lot of knowledge transfer, but there’s also a need to share a
traditional plan, section, and elevation, as well as other reports with project team. Using
automation and customization features, these added sheets can save valuable drafting time.
a. Lack of expertise
- BIM requires technical skills and knowledge on how a project designed and documented.
Therefore, most company odd to pay for their staffs to software training.
9.2 CAD Measurement
9.2.1 CAD Benefits
a. Easy to edit & Time saving
- By using CAD software, drawings and images will be much easier to maintained and produced
in a short time. If errors are discovered, the drawing’s error can be fix and modify easily.
b. Improved accuracy
- CAD software able to achieve accuracy that never be achieved by manual drawings.
CAD provide tools to measure the precision, skill and accuracy level of the designs.

a. Software Complexity
- As CAD software advance, it becomes more flexible and adaptable. However, it became
complexity to first-time user to learn the software. Therefore, skilled draftsmen/staff are needed
to handle with this software.
b. Security
- Design drawing can be easily copy or stolen by pen-drive within few minutes.
c. Power Limitations and Cost
- CAD software often consumes large amounts of computer processing power. This requires
high-quality computer hardware that can be costly. CAM requires advanced manufacturing
devices that are also very expensive.
a. Cost effective
- Manual measurement can be effectively in comparison to BIM and CAD measurement that it
does not required to purchase any software license and provide training for staff.
b. Easier drawing completion
- Manual drafting is the combination of talent, knowledge and skill. It required skilled draftsman
to produce a good manual drafting. Besides, manual drawing can be produce in anywhere with a
pen, paper and T-square rule.
a. Human errors
- There may be a risk to redraw all drawings if a mistake error was made. All drafting must be
verified in correct size, dimension and alignment. This may cause a delay to construction stage.
b. Time Consuming
- A longer time takes to reproduce or redraw the drawing in comparison to BIM and CAD
drawing that all drawing done manually.

10.0 Pre-Construction Stage
10.1 Building Information Modelling
10.1.1 BIM Benefits
a. Cost and Construction schedule effectively
- BIM helps to assist the entire pre-construction phase by supporting building design and
construction phrase with immediate availability of project data that including design, scope,
schedule and cost information. The contractors will be given on schedule work plan so to ensure
process of construction on time.
b. Visualization
- BIM models are relatively easy to understand and show depth and elevation in a clear, visual
way. For example, on a non-BIM drawing, contractor may not immediately understand how a
room will look once it is completed. However, on a BIM model, the room appears on the
computer screen in a way that mimics its finished look.
a. Construction Costs
- BIM might present as an idea of the total expected construction costs. BIM allows to estimate
the most accurate building cost-to-complete, however, it will not consider actual price variation
from market, such as fluctuation price on metals, petroleum, cement and other natural disasters
affecting during construction stages.
b. Disruptive
- Although BIM model can do changes and made quickly, however, BIM can disrupt the general
construction process when ordering material based on the dimensions of the design. Ordering
this material may take weeks or months. If the dimensions change, may occur when multiple
contractors are inputting information into a model on a continual basis, the contractor may be
left with insufficient time to order the material.
10.2 CAD Measurement
10.2.1 CAD Benefits
a. Easy to share
- The CAD design can be easily shared between department or companies through email within
minutes which can save be printed in any number of copies whenever needed.

b. Accurate billing quantities
- CAD drawings are produced according to the actual size – in scale 1:1, hence
the measurement produced in this stage will be accurate.
c. Zoom features
- CAD offer ‘zoom’ feature where allow designers or surveyors can magnify certain elements for
inspection.
a. Unable to produce bill of quantities
- CAD software do not have the function in producing Bills of Quantities automatically. Therefore,
data has to be transferred into BQ format manually or imported the quantities to another
software. Mistakes might occur during the transferring process.
a. Safer way
- Since drawings are manually draw, it will not be affected due to any computer problems such as
virus attack or system down that affect to the working as all the drawings are drafting on papers.
Besides, manual drawings are hard to steal/copy compare to BIM and CAD files that can be
easily saved into a pen-drive just in few seconds.
b. No training required
- As most fresh graduates’ quantity surveyors are mostly exposed to manual measurement, thus
they are able to understand the drawings clearly. Therefore, no extra training needed for the
surveyors to take on since all details are based on the drawings.
a. Time consuming
- Manual measurement is not recommended for a large project where required large manpower
and longer time in measurement on the drawings one by one.
b. Human Errors
- Errors might be happened when there are plenty of drawings needed to measure and scale that
make everything be complicated and complex.

11.0 Construction Stage
11.1. Building Information Modelling
11.1.1 BIM Benefits
a. Collaboration
- BIM allows for unprecedented collaboration on design. The BIM models give all contractor an
opportunity to sit down together and work through issues that arise during the construction
process. It is very useful in the case of ‘’clashes’’ that can lead to ‘’stacking of trades’’ eg, the
areas where two different contractors plan to install material in the same space , sometimes at
the same time. Instead of addressing clashes in the field, where resolution may require that one
contractor remove and reinstall its material or suffer delay.
b. Flexibility
- With BIM, it is easy to make design changes. A change to BIM model automatically updates all
of the individual drawings that are affected by that change. For example if a foyer is added to
the first floor on the BIM model , all drawings showings showing the first floor will now also
show the details necessary to build the foyer. Once the change is made to the BIM model, it is
unnecessary to make manual changes.
a. Time consuming
- The schedule updating can be costly and time consuming and yet the manager must came up
with decision on the value of the BIM based scheduling based on the needs of the project.
b. Training and software costs
- Usage of BIM requires significant training and as with any software program there are cost
associated with the software such as purchasing, licensing and training.
11.2.1 CAD Benefits
a. Enhance the relevant process with the means of clarity
- It improves the communication form and most likely to be credited to the simpler
comprehension of the configuration and estimation. The simplicity of the changes which makes
the reexamined and overhauled arrangements to the group are simpler , meanwhile it also

created a different point of view perspective of a structure or parts of a structure to give a much
precise data for making development much proficient,
b . Accuracy
- User may experience difficulties by manual drafts or uncertainty in the measurement of some
specific area, by using CAD it not just follow to scale and also help in institutionalization
outline, drafting and documentation,
a. Measurements are limited
- There is estimation impediments for CAD , 2D drawings are measured for the unit of
measurements for 2D outline only, while for 3D drawings, extra effort may be required for the
estimation for volume.
b . Additional operating expenses on site
- The utilization of CAD at development may cause an issue to the organization money related
administration strategies due to expenses increase.
a. Lower risk and secured.
- Manual measurement will reduce the risk of information loss on the computer as it maybe
affected by virus or not save properly and it is more secure as everything is in hand written.
a. Time consuming.
- Alteration may occurs from time to time and it is for sure that changes has to be made which
causing manual measurement consume more time and in result delay of works and extension of
time
b. Accuracy of data.
- The dimension is restricted as manual measurement as it doesn’t have 2D,3D,4D and 5D like
other software and could not identify errors and the data might not be accurate as all of it is in
manually calculated.

12.0 Post-Construction Stage
12.1. Building Information Modelling
12.1.1 BIM Benefits
a. Real-time Data
- The BIM software can be used to locate and track the conditions of the particular building in
real time and enables decision to be made in the short period for any changes to prevent delay
caused by incomplete information.
b. Space Visualization
- By utilizing a 3D visualization of a building space for renovation or other changes are
considerably useful and easier as the software are able to access straight to the method of the
construction and identify the high density areas where the access of the heave equipment and
machinery access that will rise a problem.
a. Resource Limitation
- Utilization of BIM in the post-construction stage is consider as feasible if it is used throughout
the entire construction duration and meanwhile it is impractical to key in the traditional
measurement and estimating data into a BIM model and causing it requires more time and
resources.
12.2.1 CAD Benefits
a. Extension of information
- The 3D CAD files are able to extend the information give in the Manual by showing a clear
visualization of different items in the building especially the hidden items such as wiring and
plumbing. It also enable the workers to carried out maintenance of the certain part much easier
especially the area that involves sensitive part of the building

12..2.2 CAD Constraints
a. Limited Information
- The CAD files only includes the building hardscape which is there is little or no information
will be provided on the softscape of the building which mainly covers the population and the
designated space usage. Thus causing issues when alternation have to be made as there is
insufficient visualization and information.
a. Easy to obtain information
- The documents of Operation and Manual is kept in the office which is able to be access when it
is need at all time.
b. Straightforward information
- The information provided by using manual measurement is clear and straightforward and can be
found easily to be understood compare by using software as it require to locate and extract the
information which is need some more it is time saving.
a. Limited Information
- Crucial Information sometimes could not be found or provide in a hard copy manual for the
maintenance team to develop beyond the 2D drawings,

12. References
1. BuildSoft Pro vs CostX - Construction Software Comparison. Construction.softwareinsider.com.
Retrieved 10 October 2017, from
http://construction.softwareinsider.com/compare/204-345/BuildSoft-Pro-vs-CostX
2. Software, G. Glodon Quantity Takeoff Software - Mustard Seed. Mustard Seed. Retrieved 10 October
2017, from http://mseedsystems.com/product/glodon/
3. Golden Software in Forbes List. Forbes.com. Retrieved 10 October 2017, from
https://www.forbes.com/companies/glodon-software/#
4. Top 5 BIM Quantity Takeoff Software – 3D Model Based Estimating Solutions. (2017). Estimation
QS. Retrieved 10 October 2017, from http://estimationqs.com/top-5-bim-quantity-takeoff-software/
5. MudShark. Buildsoft.com.au. Retrieved 27 September 2017, from
https://www.buildsoft.com.au/mudshark-earthwork-software
6. Cubicost Quantity Takeoff & Estimating for Construction and M&E | UK. . www.cubicost.co.uk.
Retrieved 28 September 2017, from https://www.cubicost.co.uk/tme
7. Group, T. (2016). Construction Software | BIM Software | BIM for Construction | Vico Software.
Vicosoftware.com. Retrieved 30 September 2017, from
http://www.vicosoftware.com/bim-for-construction-software-products
8. Patel, H. (2017, June 27). 5D BIM Bridges the Gap between Concept Design and Pre-Construction.
Retrieved October 3, 2017, from
http://www.hitechcaddservices.com/news/5d-bim-bridges-gap-concept-design-pre-construction/
9. Preparing for BIM – what stage are you at? (2017). Retrieved October 3, 2017, from
https://www.riba-insight.com/monthlyBriefing/16-07/preparing-for-bim-what-stage-are-you-at.asp
10. What is BIM? What are its Benefits to the Construction Industry? (2017, October 05). Retrieved
October 7, 2017, from
http://www.aproplan.com/blog/quality-management-plan-construction/what-is-bim
11. Ball, M. (2017, April 26). Top 10 Benefits of BIM (Building Information Modeling). Retrieved
October 1, 2017, from
https://www.autodesk.com/redshift/building-information-modeling-top-10-benefits-of-bim/
12. Rodriguez, J. (n.d.). Building Information Modeling (BIM) Risks. Retrieved October 2, 2017, from
https://www.thebalance.com/building-information-modeling-risks-845093

13. The Legal Risks of Building Information Modeling (BIM). (2017, June 22). Retrieved October 3,
2017, from
http://www.constructionlawnowblog.com/design-and-technology/the-legal-risks-of-building-information
-modeling-bim/
14. The value of preconstruction services and BIM for complex construction projects. (2008, July 31).
Retrieved October 2, 2017, from
https://www.healthcaredesignmagazine.com/architecture/value-preconstruction-services-and-bim-compl
ex-construction-projects/
15. Advantages of Computer Aided Design. (n.d.). Retrieved October 2, 2017, from
https://www.indiacadworks.com/blog/advantages-of-computer-aided-design/
16. Manual or CAD. Retrieved October 3, 2017, from
https://www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/toolbox/furnishindustry/toolbox/shared/resources_dr/ask_expert/tania/
manual_cad.htm
17. The Advantages and Disadvantages of CAD.CAM. (n.d.). Retrieved October 3, 2017, from
http://classroom.synonym.com/advantages-disadvantages-cadcam-10002481.html
18. The Disadvantages of AutoCAD. (n.d.). Retrieved October 3, 2017, from
https://itstillworks.com/the-disadvantages-of-autocad-10110.html

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