Software Application for Quantity Surveying (CSC60603)ASSIGNMENT REPORT

Group Members:I. Ng Wai KongII. Chong Kai XiangIII. Chin Weng LokIV. Lee Jian RuV. Than Lek MeiVI. HJ MUHD SYAFIQ

BIN HJ ABD ZARIFUL

NOMITECH(CostOS)

01

An innovative estimating solution that can be used to estimate

the cost of a project at various stages (from Planning to the Tender Phase).

It can be used by contractors, subcontractors, consultants, project owners,

investors, designers, and suppliers to use for quotation. CostOS is easy to

learn, uses solid estimating principles and makes it easy to get information

for documentation.

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FUNCTIONS

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• Both the local server and the online databases can find the cost data

that matches the selected entities and directly assigns this data to

the model

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Ability to produce BQ Directly through 3D Model

• Able to identify omissions or mistakes of the design and amend our

estimates accordingly. It also ensures that no items will be missed.

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Ease of identification of Omissions and Mistakes

• Provides a more in-depth structural 2D/3D viewing in which it helps

in measuring specific structural members or any other items.

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Increase of Accuracy

• Supports measurement on PDF, JPEG, TIFF, WDG, DGN and DXF.

Highly compatible, its multiuser capability enables many QSs to work

on all projects simultaneously.

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Supports various kinds of format

• CostOS allows users in different locations to access into a centralized

database created for a company in which up to 300 users can

collaborate and work together and share information on a real time

basis. NOMITECH (CostOS)

Team Working

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• CostOS is a very Modern

Technology that provides very

deep estimating capabilities,

smart assemblies in 2D/3D/BIM

measurements, management

can supervise progress from

everywhere,

LIMITATIONS

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• The software is incapable of comparing two different sheets of drawings at the same time which makes it very difficult to view them consistently having to switch from one sheet to another from time to time.

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Unable to view two different sheets at the same time

CostOS is specifically designed for companies

that want to increase their competitiveness by

responding to modern estimating challenges more

quickly, with less effort, more accuracy, less risk, and

with an increased level of confidence.

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EXACTAL (Cost X)

02

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FUNCTIONS

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• established in October 2003

• develop estimating software for the

construction industry and integrate

the estimating process with CAD

drawing files.

• wide spread use amongst

construction line all around the world.

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• 2D Takeoff

-Supports scanned, PDF or CAD drawings and 3D

models/BIM – all without the need to buy CAD software.

• 3D / BIM Takeoff

-Supports BIM by using digital design data to accurately

estimate quantities and costs.

• Workbooks

-Powerful spreadsheet based workbooks are live-linked to

the drawings.

• Auto-Revision

-Unique revision mode compares drawings and highlights

the changes to identify revisions and update quantities.

NOMITECH (CostOS)

• Subcontractor Comparison

-Subcontractor comparison workbooks can

be generated with associated reports.

• Network Capability

-Network capabilities allow multiple users

to work on the same project at once.

• Paperless Estimating

-Free costX viewer allows others to view

your estimates and reports without paper

copies.

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BENEFITS TO CLIENTS

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• Distribute Files in a Read-Only Format to Clients.

-read-only packages complete with hierarchical

spreadsheets and live links to embedded CAD

drawings & BIM that can be explored in real-time

on-screen

• Get Fast Dynamic Estimates.

-all packaged together into one simple portable

document.

• Get the Benefits of CostX®. Free.

-It allows us to easily identify on-screen the impact

of drawing modifications across building revisions.

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LIMITATIONS

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• Self-prepare Bills of Quantities

-Cost X users have to create their own bill

of quantities work book

• Inconvenience for Users

-Bugs may occur and it will slow down

the process of taking quantities.

NOMITECH (CostOS)

VICO SOFTWARE (TAKEOFF MANAGER)

03

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It is the next generation of 5D BIM solution where it is created

due to the rapidly growing construction industry by increasing the

efficiency, with shorter delivery times, and producing high quality work

to contractors or owners.

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With Model Progression Specification, the software itself can dictate

better tools to use to the model or format that are export by this software.

FUNCTIONS

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Vico Constructability Manager Provides a solution for various clash detects and re-coordinates resolution so that users can easily identify any constructability issues in the planning stage before they occur in the site.

Vico Layout Manager Maps critical point in a virtual 3D model based on different corresponding physical points on the job site. Hence, speeding installation and also eliminating costly reworks.

Vico Takeoff Manager Derives construction-caliber quantities by locating from other equivalent BIM models as well as quantities by location power more accurate and precise schedules and estimates.

Vico LBS Manager Organized approach by dividing different projects into working locations. Furthermore, it ensures trade crews flow smoothly from prerequisite to successor task without interference.

ADVANTAGES

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• Much more convenient to be used because it can pair different

other applications which are developed by the other companies.

• Cost can be extract and export into reports in Excel form

spreadsheets that also can be easily import into any other

estimating machines and software.

• It doesn’t required architect to own the Vico Office in starting

process because it can integrate with other design build software

which associate with BIM software.

LIMITATIONS

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• It is compatible to Microsoft Windows only.

• Its limit set up for taking off is effectively only for buildings where

other civil work which is roads and bridges couldn’t be involve by

using the application itself.

• Changes made couldn’t be flag or change in the application, yet all

changes need to be done through their original program.

GLODON

04

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FUNCTIONS & FEATURES

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• widely used in construction, industrial engineering and infrastructure

• 3D measurement and calculation rules which include British

Standards and Uniform Building By-Law

• Embedded within Glodon products are state-of-the-art quantities

processing methods and functions addressing quantity surveying

tasks in various stages of construction.

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• Glodon Takeoff for Rebar (TRB)

• Glodon Takeoff for Mechanical and Electrical (TME)

• Glodon Takeoff for Architecture and Structure (TAS)

• Glodon Tender Series for Bill of Quantities (TBQ)

NOMITECH (CostOS)

Function: TRB is a suite of quantity calculation software based on BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology which works with TAS, TME and TBQ.

Features:• Imports 3D model from TAS to calculate rebar quantities• Produces 3D model through identification of CAD entities• Easy to use User Interface• Produces Rebar Schedule for fabricator on site• Detail breakdown of calculation results• Provides various reporting formats

1. Glodon Takeoff for Rebar (TRB)

NOMITECH (CostOS)

Function: TME is a BIM based quantity takeoff software for MEP which is also compatible with TAS, TRB and TBQ. Features:• Imports 3D model from TAS to layout building services• Customizable built-in calculation rules• Automatic joints and connecting accessories generation• User-friendly interface• Calculation result with detail breakdown• Various reporting format

2. Glodon Takeoff for Mechanical and Electrical (TME)

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Function: TAS is a BIM-based quantity takeoff software for architecture and structure which has successfully passed the building SMART certification. TAS also works with TRB, TME and TBQ.

Feature: • Imports 3D model from TRB to calculate quantities• Produces 3D models by identifying CAD files or on image• Dynamic links of quantities to BQ description• Detailed breakdown of calculation results• Various reporting format

3. Glodon Takeoff for Architecture and Structure (TAS)

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Function: TBQ is an innovative, efficient and easy-to-use cost estimating software. TBQ works well with TAS, TRB and TME.

Feature: • Perfect interconnectivity with TAS• User-friendly• User-defined BQ format and layout, including BQ with multiple columns in

landscape printing orientation• Traceable and manageable addendum• Comparison between versions of BQ or Cost Plan• Offline E-Tender enabled• Import/Export from Microsoft Excel for information exchange• Quantity analysis on item by unit of measurement

4. Glodon Tender Series for Bill of Quantities (TBQ)

LIMITATIONS

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• Fulfilling all its products to the business from the process of

construction design to its operation that covers facility management

by Glodon BIM can be very costly.

• to get the software updated on time, certain amount is needed to be

paid for its maintenance and operation updating fee.

• an extra surcharge if users require different products to cancel off the

limitation between each other.

• takeoff matches the desired specification, measurement

parameterization needs to be adjusted when the specifications are

not according to what the suppliers establish.

BUILDSOFT (CUBIT)

05

NOMITECH (CostOS)

Buildsoft is an Australian company that develops and markets

computer software for the building and construction industry.

Buildsoft has been operating for over 30 years and this

particular company specialize in estimation software designed to help

builders, estimators, contractors, subcontractors and tradespeople.

Cubit is a software made by Buildsoft which is a unique and

natural solution for estimating and construction projects. This

software combines both estimating and take-off in its package, which

can help save time and money.

FUNCTIONS

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This software is that it produces accurate take-offs and it allows the user to take-off quantities

directly from the plans directly into the estimate which can be done all on the same screen.

1) Simplicity with Plans

Cubit brings simplicity to importing, rotating, and scaling the user’s plans. If there happens to be a

mistake when scaling, it is easy to rescale at any time and all the taking off will automatically be

updated.

2) Plays Well with Others

Cubit is a team player, and it incorporates easily with MudShark Earthworks, Microsoft Excel, Cordell

Direct and the Buildsoft Estimating Series with data that is easy to move into all the most widely used

packages. Cubit will also plans from CAD(DWG, DXF), PDF, Image or a BIM format.

3) Minimize Errors and Second-Guessing

Cubit can directly trace over the imported plans, simple or complex quantity take offs are performed

quickly and accurately. Besides, it has greater control, insights and analysis

LIMITATIONS

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1) Uses a Fixed License

Buildsoft has decided to incorporate a fixed license into Cubit which

means it is fixed to one user and can only be used on one computer. Even

though this means the security for this software has been amplified, it

also limits its flexibility when the user forgets to bring their laptop.

2) Requires a Powerful Computer

This software has a lot of functions which means it also requires a

powerful computer for it to function and run smoothly to reduce the

loading time.

RECOMMENDATION• Glodon (TAS) Software

• Glodon has a full set of BIM-based solutions that focuses on BIM

application in the whole building life cycle and throughout every part

of the construction project.

• provide solution which can fully penetrates into all stages of business

needs instead of just providing the most comprehensive range of BIM

data.

• offer more accuracy and more convenient to users as compared to

other BIM software for quantity surveying.

NOMITECH (CostOS)

Preparation/Briefing Stage06

BENEFITSBIM1. Assess project feasibility more easily2. Better visualize of project through 3D model3. Eliminates diversions of project team

CAD Measurement1. Better visualization of project than manual measurement2. More accurate estimation through CAD drawing drafts

Manual Measurement1. Cost Effective2. No further training required

NOMITECH (CostOS)

CONSTRAINTSBIM1. High investment in cost, time and training2. Not flexible with construction cost variations

CAD Measurement1. Expense on Software2. Lack of Information Backup

Manual Measurement1. Cost Plan2. For those very experienced Quantity Surveyor, they can estimate just based on their experience from past projects which means fresh graduate QS does not have sufficient knowledge and experience to estimate cost or budget

NOMITECH (CostOS)

Design Stage07

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BENEFITSBIM• BIM software is able to capture the current condition of the site

• enhances the design process, -it improves the management and integration of expertise and also the collaboration on the project

• improved the efficiency of designing the building for contractor and supply-chain teams

• BIM software is able to detect clashes of electrical circuit in the beams or slabs so that damages can be avoided.

NOMITECH (CostOS)

BENEFITS CAD Measurement Able to design models quicker.

Strength and durability of the building materials can be measured.

Allows printing documents in different forms for multiple users.

Reduce miscommunication and provide better understanding.

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BENEFITSManual Measurement

• It does not require computer.• Easier to be understood• No software is needed

• It saves a lot of time as workers do

not need to be professionally trained.

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CONSTRAINTSBIM• Requires experienced users to the software.

• The cost of this software is high.

• From drafting to modeling, it requires high-level skilled design drafter who is

more professional in material used of the project

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CONSTRAINTSCAD Measurement• Requires well-trained user

• Misusing the software will bring trouble to the construction team.

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CONSTRAINTSManual Measurement It is time consuming.

It is troublesome when comes to changes in measurement

Errors like miscalculation often occur

Work done may not be completed nor organized•

Pre-Construction Stage

08

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BENEFITSBIM

1. Increases accuracy of the cost estimation process

- From the BIM model, quantities can be extracted and form a basis for a bill of

quantities which can be used in the procurement phase. Estimations can be even

more precise if productivity and other related information for building components

in the model are available.

2. Preparation of the tender documents can be reduced

- BIM has a feature which acts like an automatic quantity take-off and automatic

- estimation and hence, the time need to price the building will be shortened.

NOMITECH (CostOS)

BENEFITSCAD Measurement

1. 3D modelling

- CAD measurement provides 3D modelling which can be rotated around an axis

which gives the user or designer a better understanding or a better image of the

building that is being constructed.

2. Reduce human error

- The human brain cannot visualize to exact scale, hence with the help of the

3D modelling, not only can it help ease the visualization of the building, but it

can also help minimize the need for re-work because the design quality greatly improves.

NOMITECH (CostOS)

BENEFITS

Manual Measurement

1. Cost effective

Manual measurement has the lowest start-up cost in comparison with the other two

measurements as the cost required for the manual measurement is mainly on the

printing.

NOMITECH (CostOS)

CONSTRAINTSBIM1. Incompatibility with partners- 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.

CAD Measurement1. Does not allow repetition of object- If there are repeated objects in CAD, the function of cut and paste must be used

to enable the software to automatically measure the number of objects.

Manual Measurement1. More time consuming- There are over a hundred drawings available for the project and a lot of time would be needed to finish it by hand.

Construction Stage09

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BENEFITSBIM

• Great reduction of Rework

-Can reduce rework up from 40 to 90 percent in completed construction.

-Estimated cost of rework merely make up to 5 percent of total construction cost.

•Planning and Control the construction project

-All components of the building can be checked and planned in advance which leads

to better collaboration and instantly reduced needs for on-site inventories such as

reducing and minimizing the costs.

-Following up the actual construction status by daily regularly updating the dates of

installation according to the model itself.

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BENEFITSCAD Measurement

• Less time to execute a design idea

- CAD software has variety of tools for editing the design textures and colors of

designs in order to present to client without starting from scratch which will

consumed a lot of time. Hence, it also can help decision be more precise because of

visualize output.

• Enhance correspondence process

- Changing data in CAD is easier, where re-examined and overhauled arrangements

to the group is much more convenient.

- 3D CAD can create different point of view perspectives of a structure with precise

data to be fabricated and making development proficient.

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BENEFITSManual Measurement

• Prevent Lost of Data

- During the construction stage, it is important that every drawing must exist when

the contractor is commencing their work.

- Manual measurement can reduce the risk of information loss through computer

system

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CONSTRAINTSBIM

• Social context obstacles

- People who fully understands the function of BIM are limited.

- Lack of awareness in possible benefits and challenges in how to use BIM

applications.

• Time Consuming

- A project based construction consist of many elements and subtask to be

scheduled and completed.

- The schedule updating may take up a certain cost hence time consuming

NOMITECH (CostOS)

CONSTRAINTSCAD Measurement

• Limitation in measurements

- Estimations like volume couldn’t be implement for 3D drawings.

• Requires time to adapt

- For a higher age of company, it will be difficult to immediately

adapt to the changes from manual to digital

- Consume a longer time to convert or create into a CAD drawings.

NOMITECH (CostOS)

CONSTRAINTSManual Measurement

• Inaccuracy of data

- Data which is manually calculated or measured can be inaccurate

as in it requires a lot of time to discover the mistakes.

• Delay of work

- For a higher age of company, it will be difficult to immediately

adapt to the changes from manual to digital

- Variation keen occurs during construction phase where through

manual measurement it indirectly consumes a lot of time.

Other Stage10

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BENEFITS & CONSTRAINTSBenefit Constraints

BIM

1.Planning

2.Easy for additional works

1.Re-measurement is needed

CAD

1.Space Efficient

2.Last Longer

1.Only available for new project

MANUAL1.Easy to Refer 1.Incorrect Scale

CONCLUSION11

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BIM computer software is beneficial due to its:

Better quality and value

Improve integrations and coordination on-site

Reduce wastage of materials

Increase understanding and predictability

Improve efficiency

QUESTION & ANSWER

Q&A

Thank you