MEASUREMENT METHODS IN QUANTITY SURVEYING …...2.1 Quantity Surveying in Management of Project...
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MEASUREMENT METHODS IN QUANTITY SURVEYING CONSULTANT FIRMS CHEN KAH YONG UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA
Transcript of MEASUREMENT METHODS IN QUANTITY SURVEYING …...2.1 Quantity Surveying in Management of Project...
MEASUREMENT METHODS IN QUANTITY SURVEYING CONSULTANT
FIRMS
CHEN KAH YONG
UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA
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CHEN KAH YONG
1st JUNE 1988
MEASUREMENT METHODS IN QUANTITY
SURVEYING CONSULTANT FIRMS
2013/2014
√
880601-52-5151 ASSOC. PROF. SR. DR. FADHLIN
ABDULLAH
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MEASUREMENT METHODS IN QUANTITY SURVEYING CONSULTANT
FIRMS
CHEN KAH YONG
A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the awards of the degree of
Bachelor of Quantity Surveying
Faculty of Built Environment
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
DECEMBER 2013
ii
DECLARATION
I declare that this thesis entitled “Measurement Methods In Quantity Surveying
Consultant Firms” is the result of my own research except as cited in the references.
The thesis has not been accepted for any degree and is not concurrently submitted in
candidature of any other degree.
Signature : a
Name : CHEN KAH YONG a
Date : a
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DEDICATION
To my beloved parents, supervisor and friends
Thanks for supporting, understanding, guiding and encouragement.
Lecturer and staff from Department of Quantity Surveying,
Thanks for giving me guidance and educate me.
I extend my deepest appreciation to each of the above.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to take this opportunity to record my sincere appreciation to
those who has been helping me throughout the research. The research would not
have been successful without the great supports, sacrifices and generous
contributions from various parties.
Firstly, I would like to thanks my supervisor, Assoc. Prof. Sr. Dr. Fadhlin
Abdullah for all her guide, patience and important advice which helped me
throughout the whole process of writing the thesis. Her generous contribution and
great support throughout the period of the research are much appreciated.
Secondly, I would like to thanks the respondents who had spent their
precious time to answer my questionnaire and replied me.
Lastly, I would like to thank all my friends and family members for their
support and dedication in helping me to complete this research. Thank you very
much.
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ABSTRACT
Construction Industry is a complex industry that involves a lot of parties and
professional. One of the professionals who play an important role in construction
development projects is Quantity Surveyor. The main service provided by Quantity
Surveyor is the preparation of Bills of Quantities or Specification document for
tendering purposes. To prepare a Bill of Quantities, measurement needs to be done
and the traditional practice of measurement is through taking-off. However, due to
the growth of the technology, the current measurement practise is diverse from the
traditional methods. Hence, there is a need to investigate the current measurement
methods used in Malaysia QS consulting firms. The purposes of this study are to
identify the measurement methods undertaken by QS consulting firms, to determine
factors influencing the choice of measurement methods and to identify problems
encountered using the chosen measurement methods. A total of 340 questionnaires
were distributed to all QS consulting firms registered with the Board of Quantity
Surveyors Malaysia for the collection of data but only 54 questionnaires were
returned. The data were analysed using descriptive statistic method. The findings
showed that the traditional measurement methods are slowly replaced by
computerised systems and software. The most used measurement method in QS
consulting firms is Computer Spreadsheet Systems and Microsoft Excel is the most
used Computer Spreadsheet System. On the other hand, factors that influence the
choice of measurement methods is the accuracy of the measured quantities, the time
taken to undertake the measurement works and the flexibility in editing the
measurement works. From the finding of the study, the main problems of traditional
methods are time consuming and increase the measurement workload. There are no
problems encountered using the computer spreadsheet systems and the main
problem of the specialist software is too costly to be used.
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ABSTRAK
Industri pembinaan merupakan industri yang kompleks yang melibatkan
banyak profesional dan salah satu profesional ialah juruukur bahan. Perkhidmatan
utama Jurukur Bahan ialah penyediaan Senarai Kuantiti atau Spesifikasi dokumen
untuk tujuan tender. Untuk penyediaan Senarai Kuantiti, “measurement”
/pengukuran perlu dilakukan dan amalan tradisional pengukuran adalah melalui
“Taking-off”. Disebabkan oleh pertumbuhan teknologi yang pesat, kaedah
pengukuran tradisional sedang digantikan dengan kaedah pengukuran kuantiti
bangunan yang baru. Oleh itu, terdapat keperluan untuk mengenalpasti kaedah
pengukuran yang sedang digunakan. Tujuan kajian ini adalah untuk mengenal pasti
kaedah pengukuran yang digunakan oleh firma-firma Ukur Bahan, untuk
menentukan faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi permilihan kaedah pengukuran dan
untuk mengenal pasti masalah yang dihadapi dengan menggunakan kaedah
pengukuran yang telah dikenalpasti. Sebanyak 340 soal selidik telah diedarkan
kepada firma-firma Ukur Bahan yang berdaftar dengan BQSM tetapi hanya 54 soal
selidik telah dikembalikan. Data dianalisis menggunakan kaedah statistik deskriptif.
Keputusan kajian menunjukkan bahawa kaedah pengukuran yang paling banyak
digunakan di firma-firma perunding Jurukur Bahan adalah sistem spreadsheet
komputer dan “Microsoft Excel” merupakan sistem spreadsheet komputer yang
paling banyak digunakan. Keputusan kajian juga menunjukkan faktor-faktor yang
mempengaruhi pemilihan kaedah pengukuran adalah ketepatan kuantiti yang diukur ,
masa yang diambil untuk menjalankan kerja-kerja pengukuran dan fleksibiliti dalam
menyunting kerja-kerja pengukuran. Daripada keputusan kajian ini, masalah utama
kaedah tradisional adalah ia memakan masa yang panjang dan meningkatkan beban
kerja pengukuran. Tiada masalah yang didapati di dalam penggunaan sistem
spreadsheet komputer dan masalah utama perisian pakar adalah kos yang tinggi.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER TITLE PAGE
TITLE PAGE
DECLARATION ii
DEDICATION iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT iv
ABSTRACT v
ABSTRAK vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS viii
LIST OF TABLES xii
LIST OF FIGURES xiii
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS xiv
LIST OF APPENDICES xv
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of Study 1
1.2 Problem Statement 3
1.3 Research Questions 4
1.4 Research Objectives 4
1.5 Scope and Limitation of Study 5
1.6 Significance of Study 5
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2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction 6
2.2 Construction Industry 7
2.3 Project Client 8
2.3.1 The Industry‟s Client 9
2.3.2 The Client‟s Role 9
2.4 Quantity Surveyors 9
2.4.1 The Work/Service of The Quantity Surveyor 10
2.4.1.1 Preliminary Cost Estimate 12
2.4.1.2 Cost Advice during the Design
Stage
12
2.4.1.3 Cost Planning 12
2.4.1.4 Preparation of Bills of Quantities 13
2.4.1.5 Contractual Procurement and
Tendering
13
2.4.1.6 Tender Evaluation 14
2.4.1.7 Preparation of Contract
Documentation
14
2.4.1.8 Valuation and Interim Payment 14
2.4.1.9 Final Account 15
2.4.2 The Skills of the Quantity Surveyor 17
2.5 Bills of Quantities 18
2.5.1 Preparation of Bills of Quantities 19
2.5.2 Purpose of Bills of Quantities 19
2.5.3 Advantages of Bills of Quantities 20
2.5.4 Disadvantages of Bills of Quantities 20
2.6 Measurement 21
2.7 Taking off, Squaring, Abstracting & Billing 22
2.8 Traditional Measurement Method 23
2.9 The Impact of ICT / IT on the Construction Industry 25
2.10 Computerisation of Quantity Surveyors‟ Work 25
2.11 Computer Spreadsheets System 27
2.12 Specialist Software for Measurement & QS Works 28
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2.12.1 CATO CADmeasure 28
2.12.2 Masterbill 29
2.12.3 QSCad 30
2.12.4 Buildsoft 30
2.12.4.1 Buildsoft Take-off system
(BTOS)
31
2.12.5 RIPAC 31
2.12.6 DimensionX 32
2.12.7 Autodesk 32
2.12.8 CostX 34
2.13 Factors Influencing the Choice of Measurement
Methods and the Problems of the Measurement
Methods
34
2.14 Conclusion 35
3.0 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction 37
3.2 Initial Stage – Identification of Issues and Problem
Statement
37
3.3 Second Stage – Literature Review 38
3.4 Third Stage – Research Design 38
3.4.1 Data Collection 39
3.4.2 Development of Questionnaire 39
3.4.3 Population 40
3.4.4 Sampling 40
3.5 Fourth Stage – Data Analysis 42
3.6 Final Stage – Conclusion and Recommendation 46
3.7 Conclusion 46
3.8 Flow Chart of Research Methodology 47
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4.0 DATA ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS 48
4.1 Introduction 48
4.2 Questionnaire Delivered 48
4.3 Location of Respondents 50
4.4 Measurement Methods Undertaken By QS Consultant
Firms
51
4.4.1 Usage of the Measurement Methods 52
4.4.2 Types of the Traditional Systems Used 54
4.4.3 Level of Usage for Traditional Systems 55
4.4.4 Type of Computer Spreadsheet Systems Used 57
4.4.5 Level of Usage for Computer Spreadsheet
Systems
58
4.4.6 Type of Specialist Software Used 61
4.4.7 Level of Usage for Specialist Software 63
4.5 Factors Influencing the Choice of Measurement
Methods
65
4.6 Problems Encountered Using the Chosen
Measurement Methods
68
4.6.1 Problems of Traditional Measurement Method 69
4.6.2 Problems of Computer Spreadsheet Systems 71
4.6.3 Problems of Specialist Software 73
5.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Introduction 75
5.2 Conclusions 75
5.2.1 Types of measurement methods undertaken by
QS
Consultant Firms
76
5.2.2 Factors Influencing the Choice of
Measurement Methods
76
5.2.3 Problems Encountered Using the Chosen
Measurement Methods
77
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5.3 Limitations of Study 77
5.4 Recommendation for Future Study 78
REFERENCES 79
BIBLIOGRAPHY 84
APPENDIX A FORM OF QUESTIONNAIRE 86
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LIST OF TABLES
TABLE
NO.
TITLE PAGE
3.1 Krejcie and Morgan Table 40
4.1 Summary of Quentionnaires Delivered 49
4.2 Number of Respondents by Location 50
4.3 Measurement Methods used by QS Consultant Firms 51
4.4 Category for Level of Usage 52
4.5 Usage of the Measurement Methods 53
4.6 Type of Traditional System Used by QS Consulting
Firms
54
4.7 Usage of Traditional Systems 56
4.8 Type of Computer Spreadsheet Systems Used by QS
Consulting Firms
57
4.9 Usage of Computer Spreadsheet Systems 59
4.10 Type of Specialist Software Used by QS Consulting
Firms
61
4.11 Usage of the Specialist Software 63
4.12 Category of Importance 65
4.13 The Importance Level for Factors Influencing the
Choice of Measurement Methods
66
4.14 Categories for Level of Agree 68
4.15 Problems of the Traditional Measurement Method 69
4.16 Problems of the Computer Spreadsheet Systems 71
4.17 Problems of the Specialist Software 73
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LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE
NO.
TITLE PAGE
2.1 Quantity Surveying in Management of Project Costs 16
2.2 Example for Normal Format of Traditional Dimension
Paper
22
3.1 Flow Chart of Research Process 47
4.1 Questionnaires Delivered 49
4.2 Percentage of Respondents by Location 50
4.3 Comparison of the Types of Measurement Methods
Used by QS Consulting Firms
51
4.4 Mean Value for the Measurement Methods 53
4.5 Comparison of Traditional Systems 55
4.6 Percentage for the Usage of Traditional Methods 56
4.7 Comparison of Computer Spreadsheet Systems 58
4.8 Percentage for the Usage of Computer Spreadsheet
Systems
60
4.9 Comparison of Specialist Software 62
4.10 Percentage for the Usage of the Specialist Software 64
4.11 Comparison of the factors Influencing The Choice of
Measurement Methods
66
4.12 Mean Value for Problems of the Traditional
Measurement Method
69
4.13 Mean Value for Problems of the Computer Spreadsheet
Systems
71
4.14 Mean Value for Problems of the Specialist Software‟s 73
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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
BQSM - Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia
IT - Information Technology
ICT - Information and Communication Technology
QS - Quantity Surveyor/ Quantity Surveying
RISM - Institution of Surveyor Malaysia
RICS - Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
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LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX TITLE PAGE
A Form of Questionnaire 86
1
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of Study
Construction Industry is an industry involving various professions and one of
the professions is Quantity Surveyors. Quantity Surveyors are one of the professions
that play an important role in any construction development projects. Basically,
Quantity Surveyors are professionals that work within the construction industry who
are concerned with building costs. They are involved with the capital expenditure
phase of a building or facility and the extension, refurbishment, maintenance and
demolition of a facility. They are involved in residential, commercial, industrial,
leisure, agricultural, retail facilities as well as infrastructure that cover roads,
railways, waterways, airports, sea ports, coastal defences, power generation and
utilities. Quantity surveyors may also be involved in process engineering, such as
chemical engineering plants or oil rigs.
The basic services provided by Quantity Surveyors are preparation of
preliminary cost estimates and cost plans of the development project; advice on cost
estimates in relation to design development of project; advice on procurement,
tendering and contractual procedures and arrangement; preparation of the bill of
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quantities or specification document for tendering purposes; organise the call of
tenders; evaluation of tenders received in the form of tender reports; preparation and
execution of the formal contract; interim valuation of works in progress on site for
purposes of interim payments; preparation of financial statement at regular intervals
during the construction period; and settlement of the final account of the project.
One of the main services provided by Quantity Surveyor is the preparation of
the Bill of Quantities or Specification document for tendering purposes (Institution of
Surveyors Malaysia, 2011). To prepare a BQ, measurement need to be done and the
traditional practices of measurement is through taking off. Due to development of
Information Technology (IT), there is a significant impact to quantity surveying
profession. It is highly foreseeable that documentation and data collection will soon
become more automated, so much so that measurement and other technical processes
can be executed with minimal human involvement. Kirby (1991) (Cited in Lim &
Ong, 2008) stated that, the technology enables a Quantity Surveyor to provide faster
and more efficient service. According to Oladapo (2006), there are softwares such as
WinQS31, QS Plus2001, QsCAD, CATO and Masterbill which can speed up and
enhance the accuracy of quantity surveying function.
Vachara Peansupap & Walker (2005) concluded that, emerging of
information and communication technology (ICT) gives the opportunities to improve
and enhance the effectiveness of many construction processes. Hence, Quantity
Surveyors can also adopt ICT in their measurement practices to enhance the work
effectiveness and quality.
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1.2 Problem Statement
Donohoe & Symonds (1999) (Cited in Lim & Ong, 2008) stated that, as a
result of the rapid growth in technology, quantity surveyor will focused on his role as
an information manager with the aid of electronic emails and business via the
internet. Therefore, Quantity Surveying firms are encouraged to use the computer to
perform traditional tasks that require intensive involvement of workers such as
producing bills of quantities, documentation etc.
When considering graduates for employment, consultant Quantity Surveying
(QS) firms expect the graduates to be somewhat competent in undertaking the range
of quantity surveying tasks. With the increasing pressures to change driven by
changing construction practices, employers will no longer see new graduates as
adequate when equipped with current knowledge of the QS academic subjects only.
Increasingly, they demand graduates to possess a range of up to-date skills and
abilities coupled with competencies in Information Technology (IT), business and
human skills, etc., to better perform in their job in the rapidly changing construction
industry (Fadzil Hassan et. al., 2011).
According to Jennings et. al. (1995), using Information Technology (IT) in
pursuit of competitive advantage has become a widespread goal. Within
construction there is some evidence that such concepts are adopted by large
contracting companies. For professional service firms in construction, the nature of
the service, the form of client-customer relations and, thus, the style of competition is
quite different from those followed by contractors.
Due to the growth of technology, the current measurement practice is diverse
from the traditional practices of measurement already. Lim & Ong (2008) concluded
that Quantity Surveyors now are required to be able to multi-task instead of
specializing. With the use of technology, the measurement work is now easier and
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faster but the skill needed has also evolved to a higher level. Brandon (1992) claimed
that the stimulating of the advances in technology had forced consultants and
manufacturers to reconsider their traditional approaches in order to harness the
potential of the computer. Hence, there is a need to investigate the current Quantity
Surveyors practices with regards to measurement in Malaysia.
1.3 Research Questions
i) What kind of measurement methods are being used in QS consulting firms?
ii) What are the factors that influence their choice of measurement methods?
iii) What are the problems faced using the chosen measurement methods?
1.4 Research Objectives
The objectives of this study are as follows:
i) To identify measurement methods undertaken by QS consulting firms.
ii) To determine factors influencing their choice of measurement methods.
iii) To identify problems encountered using the chosen measurement methods.
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1.5 Scope and Limitation of Research
This study will focus on the QS consulting firms in Malaysia. The study is
focused and limited to QS consulting firms that are registered with the Board of
Quantity Surveyors Malaysia. The focus of the study is on the measurement
methods in QS consulting firms.
1.6 Significant of Research
This study is significant to all the Quantity Surveying students and related
institution such as Institution of Surveyor Malaysia (RISM) and Board of Quantity
Surveyor Malaysia (BQSM). These significant are considered important to provide
an insight on the current measurement methods undertaken by QS consulting firms
and problems encountered. At the same time, factors influencing the choice of
measurement methods also discussed to identify the criteria of a favored
measurement method. The outcome of this research can be used as a basis for future
improvement in the measurement method. Besides, it provides Quantity Surveying
students the awareness of current measurement method practice in Malaysia QS
consulting firms so that they can prepare for the actual practices.
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CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
The construction industry is a very competitive industry and a fast pace
developing industry especially in adopting new technologicies. The impact of the
ICT on professional practice has been mainly in making jobs easier for the
professions, facilitating decision-making and savings in operation costs (Oladapo,
2006). RICS (2002)(Cited in Matipa et al., 2008), observed that there has been a
suppressed demand for the essentially traditional and technical skills of surveyors,
due to increasingly sophisticated computer applications, which, as in many other jobs,
are beginning to automate some of the roles associated with surveying. Unless the
profession adapts to the rapidly changing demands of its services, it is in danger of
losing its leading role in providing services to its key markets, land, property and
construction.
This chapter discuss the Construction Industry, Project Client, Quantity
Surveyors, Bills of Quantities, Measurement, Taking off, Squaring, Abstracting,
Billing, Traditional Measurement Method, The Impact of ICT/ IT on Construction
Industry, Computerisation of Quantity Surveyors Work, Computer Spreadsheets
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System, Specialist Software for Measurement & QS Work, Factors Influencing the
Choice of Measurement Methods and the Problems of the Measurement Methods.
2.2 Construction Industry
According to Hillebrandt (1984), construction industry is a wide industry that
covers all the parties involved in the construction process which includes the
contracting industry, the professions and some suppliers who respond to the needs of
the clients of the industry. The construction industry has characteristic that
separately are shared by other industries but in combination appear in construction
alone. The product of construction industry normally is a new work, large, heavy
and expensive which most of it is immovable and fixed in location. The product
(especially buildings) is produced by variety of materials and components supplied
by other industries. The construction industry in subject to substantial fluctuations in
the demand for its products and the structure of the industry is complex which
involved a large range of contractors, professional firms and each product is often
has a client which normally is either private, corporate or government. Besides that,
the construction process of the product is long and it is important to the economy of a
country.
Ross (2008) stated that, the construction industry is an industry that involved
five major categories of work consisting of construction and repair of building, civil
engineering, installation of fixtures and fittings (plumbing, gas fitting and electrical
installation) and building completion (painting, glazing, plastering and so on).
Basically it is the industry that involved the design and construction of buildings,
civil engineering and infrastructure work and the material industry.
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Construction industry is a complex organization which centres on the project
under construction or adaptation. The industry is unique in many ways, not least in
that the design traditionally is quite separate from the construction. Construction
work embraces a wide range of activities both in respect of the type and size of
projects undertaken. Normally in construction industry, the major client of the
project is government who can influence work directly through commissioning, and
indirectly through taxation, grants and legislation. (Willis & Ashworth, 1987).
Hence, the construction industry can be concluded as a complex industry that
involved a lot of parties and it is an industry that supports the economy of a country.
2.3 Project Client
According to Willis & Ashworth (1987), the construction industry‟s clients
are varied and many. Some of them are likely to undertake only a single capital
project, whereas others may be having projects constructed all the time. The client
of the project can be a single individual who wants a private house, to small private
manufacturing companies or large public and multinational corporations, to various
department of the government. Whilst their objectives may be broadly the same the
details of these objectives are likely to be considerably different. Due to the client
often has no technical knowledge, quantity surveyor is needed as a technical advisor
for client to become a contract and financial management of the project to satisfy the
client‟s requirement. Basically time, cost and quality are the concern of the client for
the project, so that the final product is within time, cost and attain the required
quality.
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2.3.1 The Industry’s Client
Ross (2008) stated that, the construction industry‟s client generally can be
divided into two categories which are public sector and private sector. The public
sector traditionally includes government departments, central government agencies,
public utilities, the nationalised industries, the post office, government education
institutions, local authorities and housing associations of the country. For the private
sectors, there are many different types of private sector client that possible to
describe in broad groups. They are from large industrial, commercial companies,
small buildings client that acquiring buildings for their own use, the property
developers and the house buyers.
2.3.2 The Client’s Role
According to Hillebrandt (1984), client is the person who takes a decision in
the method of organisation to adopt for his construction and he will be the one who
choose the first appointee which is a designer or other professional. Besides that, the
function of client is not only producing brief of the project, he is also involved in the
approval of the design at various stages and ensuring the design and construction is
proceeding smoothly. The client is also concerned in the selection of the contractor
and keep a watching brief on progress.
2.4 Quantity Surveyors
The meaning of the word “Surveying” is “Measuring”. “Quantity Surveying”
is the term adopted for working out or measuring quantities of a building or a work,
based on a standard method of measurement, in a systematic and scientific manner,
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which when priced give the estimated cost of the building or the work to a reasonable
degree of accuracy. In other words, quantity surveyors record or measure, all the
materials and labour involved in the construction of a building or a work, so that
there are quantities in appropriate units against which prices can be appended
(Bhasin, 1975).
According to Willis and Trench (1998), the training and knowledge of the
quantity surveyors have enabled quantity surveyors to evolve over time into new
areas. Hence, the modern quantity surveyors cover all aspects of project cost
management and procurement.
Seeley (1997) stated that, a quantity surveyor is a professionally trained,
qualified and experienced person in dealing with construction cost, construction
management and construction communications. Quantity surveyor is essentially a
cost expert whose prime task is to ensure that the project is kept within the agreed
budget and that the employer obtains value for money.
2.4.1 The Work/Service of the Quantity Surveyor
Low & Kok (1997) claimed that, a quantity surveyor provides cost advice to
clients and is entrusted to keep a building project to within an agreed budget. The
quantity surveyor sees the project through the feasibility study stage to completion.
The services offered by a quantity surveyor are preliminary cost advice; cost
planning, preparation of tender documents, advice on tender methods and contractual
arrangements, negotiations with contractors, valuation of the works in progress and
settlement of final accounts.
According to Willis & Ashworth (1987), the work and services provided by
quantity surveyor is the financial management or project cost management on behalf
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of client or the contractor. Traditionally, quantity surveyors were employed as
preparers of bills of quantities for building project, the roles was quickly extended to
include the preparation of valuation for interim certificate and agreement of the final
account with the contractor. The work of quantity surveyor can be summarized as
follow:
Preliminary cost advice and approximate estimating.
Cost planning including investment appraisal, life-cycle costing and value
analysis.
Contractual procurement and tendering procedures.
Preparation of the Bill of Quantities.
Preparation of contract documentation.
Evaluation of tender received.
Cash flow forecasting, financial report and interim payments.
Final accounting and the settlement of contractual disputes.
Cost advice during the design stage.
RICS (1971) (Cited in Willis & Ashworth, 1987), quantity surveyors‟ roles is
to ensure the resources of the construction industry are utilised to the best advantages
of society by providing, inter alia, the financial management for projects and a cost
consultancy service to the client and designer during the whole construction process.
Ramus and Birchall (1996) concluded that, the post-contract duties of
quantity surveyors included the following:
i. Prepare and arrange contract documents for signatures of the parties.
ii. Advise client on anticipated liability for payments on account to the
contractor and prepare forecast of „rate of spend‟ during the
construction period.
iii. Preparing valuations for payments
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iv. Check contractors‟ claims and prepare financial reports for interim
payment.
v. Prepare variation cost of work or architect‟s instruction.
vi. Advice architect on expenditure of prime cost sum and provisional
sum.
vii. Prepare final account.
2.4.1.1 Preliminary Cost Estimate
Preliminary estimate is a process that Quantity Surveyors prepare an
approximate estimate based on the basic scheme approved by client and the drawing
prepared by the designer. Based on the estimate, Quantity Surveyor will advise the
client on the cost of the project and help the client to understand the total cost needed
for the project (Willis and Willis, 1972).
2.4.1.2 Cost Advice during the Design Stage
During design stage, Quantity Surveyor will be responsible to advise on the
size and standard structure can be erected for any given expenditure by the client. It
is a process to ensure the economics of a project and to prepare budget of a project.
Quantity Surveyors will co-operate with the designer to ensure that a building can be
erected within an approved expenditure. (Willis and Willis, 1972).
2.4.1.3 Cost Planning
Cost planning is a system of relating the design of buildings to their cost, so
that, whilst taking full account of quality, utility and appearance, the cost is planned
to be within the economic limit of expenditure. Hence, Quantity surveyors can
13
advise on what is the size and standard of structure can be erected through cost
planning. Besides that, cost planning not only controls the design to meet the
estimated tender figure, sometimes it also possible to shows a saving through finding
reasonable economy without detriment to the client‟s requirement (Willis and Willis,
1972).
2.4.1.4 Preparation of Bill of Quantities
Willis and Willis (1972) stated that, a large part of the work of Quantity
Surveyor is the preparation of the bill of quantities. Generally, Bill of Quantities is a
set of document that consist the quantities and description of the work of a project.
The quantities of the works are measured from the drawings provided by the designer.
Bill of Quantities will become a document for costing, managing the project and
pricing by contractors.
2.4.1.5 Contractual Procurement and Tendering.
Procurement is a bidding process which also known as tendering. The Doloi
(2011) (Cited in Adedokun et al., 2013), tendering is a process whereby quotation is
submitted by a contractor when so required by the client for renovation works or
execution of part or complete project or for the materials and components to be
supplied by a supplier. At this stage, Quantity Surveyor will be responsible to advice
on the tendering procedures, contractual arrangements and advice clients on the type
of procurement to be use for the project. The completed tender document will sold
to the contractors for pricing and returned it within the duration given to bid the job.
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2.4.1.6 Tender Evaluation
The evaluation of tenders is the process to identify which of the tender best
meeting the set requirements or the pre-announced criteria. Normally, the qualified
tenderer whose tender has the lowest-price or the most economically advantageous
will be awarded the contract of project. According to Chee et. al. (2001), tender
evaluation is performed once pre-qualified tenderers have submitted their formal
tender. The scrutiny team may consist of in-house experienced personnel, or clients'
representatives (consultants and construction specialists) to evaluate the received
tenders. Normally, the tender that had the lowest price and met the requirement of
the client will be awarded the job.
2.4.1.7 Preparation of Contract Documentation
At this stage, Quantity Surveyors will be responsible to prepare a contract
documents to the successful tenderer. The contract documentation is a process of
combine all the related documents which including all pre-tender and tender
documents to form the basis of the contract between the client and the successful
contractor. Normally the contract document consist of letter of award, contract,
conditions of contract, bill of quantities, specification, drawings and other related
documents.
2.4.1.8 Valuation and Interim Payment
During the construction stage, Quantity Surveyors are responsible to control
and monitoring the cost of construction to ensure the construction cost do not exceed
the contract sum without authority from the client and the client representative
(Willis and Willis, 1972). According to Teo (2004), site valuation will be done
monthly to ascertain the total value of works executed and unfixed materials on the
15
construction site. After the site valuation is done, Quantity Surveyors will prepare
the interim certificate and submitted to the architect or superintending officer for
approval of interim payment. The significance of the Quantity Surveyors role here is
in ensuring the fair amount of monies is released to the contractor.
2.4.1.9 Final Account
After the practical completion of the project, contractor is required to submit
full particulars of all claims together with all related supporting document for the
preparation of final account. At the conclusion of the project, Quantity Surveyor will
together with the contractor, negotiate and agree on the final contract sum of the
project. The Quantity Surveyor‟s role here is to protect the client‟s interest by
ensuring the satisfactory financial conclusion of the accounts (Teo, 2004).
16
Figure 2.1: Quantity Surveying in the Management of Project Costs
(Willis & Ashworth, 1987)
Approximate
Estimates
Cost Planning
Contract
Procurement
Contract
Documents
Receipt of
Tenders
Cash Flow
Forecasting
Final Accounts
In-Use
Report Writing
Development Appraisal
Taxation and Financial
Planning
Life Cycle Costing
Value Analysis
Cost Advice
Contract Budgeting/
Forecasting
Contract Procedures
Tender Method
Bills of Quantities
Specifications
Schedules
Prime costs Contract Estimating
Tender Evaluation
Interim Payments
Financial Reports
Variations
Specialist Work
Fluctuations
Dayworks
Claims
Disputes and
Arbitration
Technical Auditing
Fire Loss Assessment
Energy Reporting
Costs-In-Use
Schedules of Condition
Dilapidations
Maintenance Management
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2.4.2 The Skills of the Quantity Surveyor
Willis & Ashworth (1987) stated that, the major skills of quantity surveyors
are as follows:
i. Economic – Associated with the assessment of value for money and
cost effectiveness of the design. It rely on the analysis and evaluative
techniques that are necessary for costing, measuring and valuing in
order the clients may be advised.
ii. Legal – Quantity surveyor have a general knowledge of law and a
specialist knowledge and interpretation of the law of contract. This
knowledge can be used to produced contract documentation and in
advicing and settlement of disputes, claim and contractual matters
arising from the construction.
iii. Technological – Quantity surveyor have knowledge of the
construction process and method of construction which can be used as
a basis to developing their other skills.
iv. Managerial - The ability to organize the work of construction project,
procurement of building and structures with the administrative skills.
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2.5 Bills of Quantities
The bills of quantities usually form one of the contract documents that‟s
based on firm bills of quantities, the contract provided the quantities of work in the
project contract and set out in the bill of quantities. Hence, the contractors carrying
out the work will get paid based on the quantity given. Thus, accuracy of quantities
during preparation of the bill is important. Besides that, a bill of quantities provides
a complete measure of the quantities of material, labor, plant and other items
required to carry out a project based on the drawings, specifications and schedules.
The value of the project is obtained by the contractor pricing each item. Quantity of
the bill of quantities is measured from the drawings and sets out to measure in detail
the proposed building work in a standard manner which can subsequently be priced
by contractor. In conclusion, it is a documents used for costing, managing a project
and pricing by contractor for a construction project.
According to Seeley (1997), the bills of quantities are designed as a tender
document that provides a valuable aid to the pricing and variations and computation
of valuations for interim certificates. It provides a good basis for cost planning and
help in the location identification of the work. The bill of quantities normally
comprises preliminaries, preambles or descriptions of materials and workmanship,
prime cost sums, provisional sums and the measured works.
Aqua Group (1986) stated that, the bills of quantities is a contract document
and as such has a specific role to fulfill under the standard form of contract. It is
therefore important that they are prepared in accordance with the conditions of the
contract, contain certain basic information, and are presented in a recognizable
format which will facilitate their use. It‟s not only for tendering, but also in contract
planning and administration.
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2.5.1 Preparation of Bills of Quantities
Willis & Newman (1988) stated that, the traditional preparation of a bill of quantities
is divided into two stages:
i. The first stage is the measurement of the dimensions and the compilation of
the descriptions from the drawings and specification. This process is
commonly known as taking-off.
ii. The second stage is the preparation of the bill. It involved the calculation of
the volumes, areas, etc. (squaring the dimensions). Traditionally it is
followed by entering the descriptions and the squared dimensions on an
abstract to collect similar items together and present them in a recognised bill
order. From the abstract, the draft bill was written which called working-up.
2.5.2 Purpose of Bills of Quantities
The main purpose of a bill of quantities is for tendering. Each contractor
tendering for a project is able to price the work on exactly the same information with
a minimum of effort. This gives rise to the fairest type of competition.
In addition, bills of quantities also have the following uses:
Valuations for interim certificates.
Valuations for variations
Ordering of materials if used with caution and awareness of possible errors
and future variations.
Cost analysis for use in future approximate estimating.
Reference, particularly on site during construction.
Planning and progressing by the contractor‟s site planner.
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Final accounting.
Quality by reference to the trade preambles clauses.
Domestic sub-contractor quotations.
Cost information.
2.5.3 Advantages of Bills of Quantities
i. It forms a common basis for competitive tendering which is necessary to
obtain a reasonable value for consideration.
ii. It forms in itself a basis of rates for measured work which can be used in the
contract for valuation of variations and final account.
iii. It is used during building operation for the compilations of interim payments.
iv. Both parties have a clear picture of the extent of their respective
commitments
v. The unit rates in the bills provide a sound basis for the valuation of any
variations to the design.
vi. A detailed breakdown of the tender sum is readily available.
2.5.4 Disadvantages of Bills of Quantities
i. The length of time taken in the design of the project and in the preparation of
the bills of quantities.
ii. The problem of dealing with those variations which are fundamental or
extensive as to change the character of the remainder of the work or the
conditions under which it has to be carried out.
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2.6 Measurement
Measurement is a very important place in the planning, execution, final
completion and settlement of payments of the building and civil engineering work.
According to Bhasin (1975), measurement is a process of measuring from drawings,
and recording all dimensions in a recognised form on specially ruler paper. The
descriptions of the various items will be based on the drawings and specifications. It
gives the type of materials to be used, the size, the method of construction and the
quality of finish. The measurement processes are as follows:
i. Taking off
ii. Squaring
iii. Abstracting
iv. Billing
According to Willis & Newman (1988), there are rules for the measurement
and description if building work and those rules are called as Standard Method of
Measurement (SMM). The SMM is a document that provides a good practice and as
a uniform basis for measuring building work. These rules can help to avoid the
quality of bills of quantity to vary widely from each other between the Quantity
Surveyors.
According to Hardie (1987), the general purpose of measurement is to present
the labor, materials, equipment, overhead, and profit of the construction work
separately or jointly in such a way that their individual or combined costs can be
predicted and later confirmed.
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2.7 Taking off, Squaring, Abstracting & Billing
According to Chu (2012), taking off is the procedure to calculate or scale off
the dimensions of the works from the drawings and entered into dimension papers or
other similar computerised formats. The normal format of dimension paper is shown
in Figure 2.1. The Column 1 of the dimension paper is the „timesing‟ column which
is used to multiply figures that are entered when there is more than one of the
particular item being measured. Column 2 is the „dimension‟ column which is used
to enter the actual dimensions taken from the drawings. Column 3 is the „squaring‟
column where the product of the figures in column 1 and column 2 will be recorded
and ready to transfer to the abstract or bill. Column 4 is the „description‟ column
where the description will be written and codes of each item will be entered. On the
right hand side of column 4 is called as the „waste‟ area which is used for
preliminary calculations, build up of lengths, explanatory notes and related matters
for the work item.
Figure 2.1: Example for Normal Format of Traditional Dimension Paper
Squaring is referred to as the calculation of the numbers, lengths, areas or
volumes and their entries in the squaring column on the dimension paper. Normally,
squaring will be independently checked to eliminate errors occurred during the
taking off process.
Abstracting is the process whereby the squared dimensions are transferred to
an abstract sheet or other similar computerised formats and then will be written in a
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recognised order for billing process. The squared dimensions will be billed under the
appropriate section headings, and are subsequently reduced to the recognised units of
measurement in readiness for transfer to the bills of quantities. Every item will be
transferred to the abstract and the description of the appropriate dimension will be
crossed through with a vertical line on the dimension sheet, with short horizontal
lines at each end of the vertical line. Each abstract sheet then will be headed with the
contract title, sheet number, contract number, abbreviated and section of the works to
which the abstracted dimensions refer. The section headings normally will follow
the heading given in the SMM and in the same order. The primary function of the
abstracting is to classify and group the various items prepared to billing, and to
reduce the dimensions to the recognised unit of measurement.
Billing is the last stage of bill preparation process where all the items and
their associated quantities are transferred from the abstract sheet onto the standard
billing sheets or other similar computerised formats that enables the tenderer to price
each item and count the total tender sum.
2.8 Traditional Measurement Method
According to Hardie (1987), the word method means a mode or procedure or
a way of doing something in accordance with a definite plan.
A traditional measurement method is a dimension preparation (known as
„Taking-off‟) and dimension-processing („working up‟) which is done by hand using
dimension paper and other tools (Bhasin, 1975). The arrangement of column from
the left to right of the dimension paper is timesing column, dimensions column,
squaring column and description column. The timesing column will be used for
several items that have the same measurements and to indicate that the measurement
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is to be multiplied. For the dimension column, it will be used to set down the
measurements from the drawings. The squaring columns are set out for the
calculated volumes and the description column is for writing the description of the
work to the dimensions applied.
One of the methods of traditional measurement methods is abstract and bill
method. According to Chu (2012), in abstract and bill method, the abstracting stage
is omitted by transferring the items directly from the dimension sheet to the bill of
quantities. By using this method, particular care must be taken to ensure all items of
work will not be missing during the billing stage. However, when adopting this
method, a methodical order of transfer must be adopted to ensure that the items are
listed correctly and in the right sequence in the bills of quantities. Items transferred
should be clearly crossed out on the dimension sheet, and an independent check must
be carried out on all calculations, which should be ticked in red ink or ball pen, and
also on all transfers. Normally this method will be adopted where the number of
similar items is not too extensive, and the job is not too complex in character.
According to Willis & Newman (1988), one of the traditional systems for
taking-off is cut and shuffle system. The cut and shuffle system is a system where
each of the description with its dimensions is written on a separate slip of paper.
When the measurement is completed, the slips are sorted into bill order and the slips
containing the same descriptions are brought together and totaled on one slip. Cut
and shuffle is also called „cut and sort‟ or as a „slip sorting system‟. Generally, this
system is more economical than the traditional abstract and bill method because there
is no repetitive writing out of description and quantities and the bill can be typed
soon after the taking-off is completed.
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2.9 The Impact of ICT / IT on the Construction Industry
According to Oladapo (2006), ICT is improving the quality of professional
services in the construction industry and its impact on the professional practice is
mainly making the jobs of professionals easier, facilitating in decision-making and
also saving the overall operation costs. The core architectural, engineering and
quantity surveying functions (like drawing, engineering design and preparation of
bills of quantities) have been largely computerised. However, Chiocchio et. al.
(2006) found that people in the construction industry still prefer traditional methods
in their working and lack of IT adoption.
2.10 Computerisation of Quantity Surveyors’ Work
The computer has made a dramatic impact on human behavior and
development which also made an impact on quantity surveyors‟ work. Due to
advance of technology, the measurement process can be done using computer system
automatically which include spreadsheets. Besides that, the information technology
also created expert system software (specialist software) to enhance the productivity
of quantity surveyors in measurement and other works.
Willis & Trench (1998) claimed that computerised and other alternative
measurement systems have become more and more widely used. With rapid
advances in computer technology, computer hardware and software applications
have become comparatively less expensive and many firms have adopted one of the
many computer systems. Computer systems have become widely used to produce
bill of quantities and carry out most other quantity surveying functions. The
development of bill production systems is ongoing and they are continually being
upgraded. Due to that, the systems that can generate bill items directly included
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computer-aided design (CAD) data or other schedule data. This fully computerised
system continue to be developed and become more widespread and make the
quantity surveyors concentrate more on interpreting the data produced, ensuring their
completeness and utilising them not only for tender documentation purpose, but also
for cost control and post-contract administration purposes.
According to Alvey (1976), computers seem to display many of the
characteristics associated with human behavior. They perform logical operations like
comparing and choosing alternatives, matching equals or selecting the next
instruction to be carried out. They also have the ability to remember and to make
what appear to be logical decisions. However, computers are lack of the power of
critical judgment and the capacity for creative thinking. The benefits of using
computer are summarised as follows.
i. Accuracy
The computer can handle data and continue to handle it in such a manner as to
maintain accuracy. Human beings are prone to making mistakes as they become
tired but the computer without human intervention will maintain its standard of
performance.
ii. Speed
A special feature if the electronic computer is its speed of operation.
Calculations are performed and decisions made in fractions of a second; a
millionth of a second is not unusual. This is something that human being are
incapable of doing or even comprehending.
iii. Retrieval of Information
The computer can maintain full historical records with rapid access. Masses of
information can be stored in a very small space.
iv. Handling Complex Problems
Computers can perform tasks that are of almost infinite complexity, in fact as
complex as the human brain can comprehend.
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2.11 Computer Spreadsheets System
According to Smith (1989), spreadsheet system had been used in quantity
surveying work for measurement. A spreadsheet combines the power of the
computer with the simplicity of a calculator. It uses a row and column format so that
all total costs and subtotals and other computations can be stored for use at any time.
The subsequent alteration to one entry will automatically lead to an instant
recalculation of the entire worksheet. It is possible to identify the rows and columns
of data in a way which makes sense to the user. Arithmetic and logic operations on
numeric data can be performed on any of the „cells‟ of the worksheet. Any rows or
columns can be summed and the results put into specified cells. The output data can
be formatted together in the most appropriate way. Example of spreadsheet software
is Microsoft Excel.
According to Hardie (1987), a spreadsheet is nothing more than two-
dimensional matrix which consists of vertical columns connecting with horizontal
rows, to produce small boxes or “fields” into which data can be inserted. The main
advantages of the computer spreadsheet is that the program can command the CPU to
manipulate data inserted into the various field cells; for example, lengths can be
multiplied by widths to produce areas, and numbers of areas can be summed or
totaled, all automatically, instantly, and correctly. Reflected dimensions can be
passed automatically to one or more cells, as required. If a change is made in any
cell, the results can also be automatically amended to reflect the effects of the change.
End results can be stored, printed out on paper, or abandoned, at the operator‟s
discretion. Besides that, spreadsheet system permit measurement, pricing, and
summarising of results which can perform work more quickly, possibly more
accurately, and certainly more pleasantly, but not really differently. The
combination of computer and spreadsheet system can also assist with some of that
“thinking”, because most computer programs excel in the “what if” type of game.
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The available spreadsheet systems are including Accel Spreadsheet,
Gnumeric, KSpread, Lotus 1-2-3, Microsoft Excel and OpenOffice (Wikipedia,
2013).
2.12 Specialist Software for Measurement & QS Works
Basically, specialist software is a program that‟s arranged to suit the needs of
the users. In this technological era, various software programs are available in the
market that can automatically take-off quantities of building works and ease the
measurement process or other tasks of quantity surveyors.
2.12.1 CATO CADmeasure
CATO CADMeasure is a multipurpose measurement tool that primarily
allows the user to measure with extreme accuracy from a CAD drawing. It can build
on some other technology such as Autodesk and Causeway to ensure the future proof
platform for all future measurement functions. In addition to measurement from
CAD files, this product can measure from paper copy by the addition of a digitising
tablet, or from photo digital images taken with a digital camera. It can also be used
to measure from fax copies when saved to digital format. CADMeasurement can
range from on screen point and click measurement to fully automated script
measurement allowing the entire drawing to be measured with a single command.
CADMeasure is an easy to use which with CAD-based interactive
measurement tool. It can cater all the measurement needs in one comprehensive
system, measuring directly from CAD files, as well as drawings received in PDF and
DWF formats. Even on projects still encumbered by paper drawings, CADMeasure
29
can still rapidly extract the relevant details required for accurate measurement.
Benchmarking studies have proved that, compared to traditional digitising techniques
CADMeasure reduces the time spent measuring initial drawings by one third and
measuring revisions by 50%. CADMeasure can perform a comprehensive range of
measurement functions including lengths, perimeters, areas and volumes. This
enables users to perform a vast range of measurements, including calculating a 3D
pipe or cable run from a 2D drawing, or working out the sloping area of pitched roof
from a 2D plan, using vertical rise or pitch (Causeway, 2012).
Basically, CAD Measure is a tool with taking off capabilities from CAD
drawings by automated or manual measurement methods for plan area, perimeter,
vertical area, vertical partition and lineal measurement (Binalink, 2013).
2.12.2 Masterbill
Masterbill was established in 1981 and have been producing Construction
Industry Software that emerged from a Quantity Surveying practice. Masterbill
created software such as World‟s first true window 32-bits BQ Systems in 1997,
complete eTendering solution in 2001 and eventual launch Masterbill Elite in 2005.
Masterbill have created more than 10 products, there are Masterbill3, Masterbill Elite,
QsCad, Estimator Pro, Digico, Cost Planner, Post Contract, Develop, Feasibility
Estimate and Solution. From the products, QsCad is the software for measurement
and some others product such as Masterbill3 also allowed measurement process to by
using the traditional dimension sheet format which allowing user to entering the
dimensions, squaring automatically and automatically link to Bills of Quantities
(Masterbill, 2012).
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2.12.3 QSCad
QSCad has been designed by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors and
Estimators to make full use of readily available CAD drawings in order to save time
and increase accuracy. It has the ability to read from any CAD package and even
from scanned drawings or digital photographs, produce an impressive graphical
record of what has been measured, bring eBusiness that step closer by allowing
Quantity Surveyors to receive and measure CAD drawings via email, without an
expensive CAD system or CAD knowledge and transfer descriptions and quantities
to other Masterbill and Windows software (QScad, 2012).
2.12.4 Buildsoft
Buildsoft is specializes in construction estimate software, takeoff software,
electronic takeoff preparation of bill of quantities as well as hard copy takeoff with
the use of digitizers. It can enhance the quantity surveyors estimating skills with the
help of introducing innovative ways of speeding up with reference to takeoff as well
as to save time and money in preparation of the bills of quantities in addition to the
process of estimation. (Infolink, 2012).
Buildsoft is the estimating software for the building and construction industry.
One of the Buildsoft software is Buildsoft Global Estimating which is for
commercial use in the building and construction industry. It produces Bills of
Quantities or detailed Estimates and Cost Plans. It‟s primary use for Commercial
building contractors and Quantity Surveyors. Information (Data) you enter into the
program can be sorted or analysed using powerful grouping columns. The estimate
can also be summarised to produce totals by area, block, stage, cost centre,
accounting group, or any user-defined set of codes. For measurement, one of the
measurement systems from buildsoft is Buildsoft Take-off system (BTOS) which
used for measurement works. (Buildsoft, 2012).
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2.12.4.1 Buildsoft Take-off system (BTOS)
BTOS is an advancement in on-screen take-off systems and features
enhanced 3D viewing. It has the potential to change the way you do estimating
forever and maybe put some fun back into the estimator‟s job. Certainly, it gives
estimators more time to concentrate on using their skills rather than performing
laborious measuring tasks. This software has already been upgraded using the latest
in progressive software design methods. It has a streamlined interface along with
multiple superior features to make it one of the easiest and most intuitive take-off
systems. It can import a digital image format such as PDF, DXF and DWG into your
project and trace over an image area with your mouse, and you can take off lineal
metres, areas, volumes and vertical area. Then enter any deductions and the BTOS
system will automatically calculate the quantities and transfer the information into
your estimating program (Buildsoft, 2012).
2.12.5 RIPAC
Ripac is a totally integrated system for the construction industry providing
estimating, cost planning, bill preparation and contract administration, using one
database from feasibility to final account. The scope of work for RIPAC included:
(CSSP, 2012)
Bill preparation
Digitising using tablet or imported images.
Take-off on screen from CAD drawings or graphic images.
Cut & Fill and Earthworks Calculations.
Electronic Tendering.
Tender appraisal.
Term Contracts.
Export to Data Warehouse for Crystal Reports / Excel, HTML/XML.
Variations.
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Re-measurement.
Interim Payments.
Cost reporting.
Final accounts.
2.12.6 DimesionX
DimensionX allows measurement direct from electronic drawings into
RIPAC, from DWG, DWF and DXF drawing files, or from PDF, BMP, JPG, GIF
and other image files. DimensionX Measurement opens the drawing on screen and
permits measurement direct, using intuitive and high quality tools. DimensionX also
support both 2D and 3D drawings as well as BIMs (Building Information Models).
Results are captured in Dimension Groups allowing consolidation of logical results
for transfer to measurement areas within RIPAC. Subsequent changes to the drawing
and measurements can be made which are automatically adjusted within RIPAC to
update quantities and prices. Lengths, Areas, Counts and Heights can be calculated
quickly and easily just by clicking or dragging the mouse around the area to be
measured. Other features include drawing revisions, comparison overlays,
calibration of scales, with a consistent and modern interface. All the expected
facilities for zooming, panning, filtering of layers and others (CSSP, 2012).
2.12.7 Autodesk
Autodesk is a world leader in 3D design, engineering, and entertainment
software and services. One of the products from Autodesk called AutodAutodesk
Quantity Takeoff building cost estimating software helps make material costing
faster, more accurate and easier. It enable cost estimators to create synchronized,
comprehensive project views that combine important information from building
information modeling (BIM) tools together with images, geometry and data from
other tools. It can automatically or manually measure areas and count building
33
components, export to Microsoft Excel, and publish to DWF™ format (Autodesk,
2013).
The functions of Autodesk Quantity Takeoff software included:
Takeoff in minutes automatically
It can perform a takeoff of quantities on an entire building information model
(BIM) in a short time through integration of 2D and 3D design data.
Greater flexibility than typical databases or spreadsheets
It can perform interactive examination of 3D models for material cost
estimating purposes.
Dynamic counting
It can count and quantify design data quickly and easily.
More efficient manual takeoff
It can support the takeoff of JPG, TIF, PDF, and other “nonintelligent” image
formats.
Share, query, and clarify
It can generate quantities linked to specific objects; Mark up and “round-trip”
your comments.
Faster and more insightful quantity reports
It can create summaries and detailed quantity surveying reports quickly and
easily.
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2.12.8 CostX
CostX was one of the products from Exactal. Exactal was established in
October 2003 which develop estimating software for the construction industry and,
more specifically, to integrate the estimating process with CAD drawing files.
CostX
provides a single integrated environment for capturing dimensions and
developing feasibility studies and full Bills of Quantities, making the management
and cost-control associated with a construction project that much easier. Digital
workflows dramatically reduce the reliance on paper. A powerful and flexible report
writer is built in to ensure professional documentation is produced from CostX.
CostX allowed takeoff of dimensions direct from the CAD files to minimize data
input errors and get accurate measurements by locking onto the precision of CAD
drawings. CosX also allowed the measurement to be done in others drawing files
such as PDF files and graphic files like JPG and BMP. The more intelligence the
drawings contain, the quicker and more automatic your estimate will be. With the
pure graphic files, CostX can simply traces over and uses rubber-stamp-like tools
with calibration to make sure the dimensions taken are to scale (Exactal, 2013).
2.13 Factors Influencing the Choice of Measurement Methods and the
Problems of the Measurement Methods
Teo (2004) claimed that, manual measurement methods is more time
consuming compared to the use of computerised methods and measurement software.
Measurement software allows for the storage and maintenance of standard headings
and descriptions within in-built libraries. These standard headings and descriptions
can be adapted and edited accordingly for use, which help in speeding up the
measurement process compared to the traditional measurement methods which need
to re-write every headings and descriptions. Besides that, computerised method also
allowed the calculations and squaring to be done automatically which is times saving.
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Hence, it can be conclude that speed of measurement process is one of the factors
that will be concerned by Quantity Surveyors in their measurement practice. Besides
that, it also shows that the problems of traditional measurement methods is time
consuming compared to the computerised methods and measurement software.
According to Tan & Yeoh (2011), the problems of using measurement
software involved high installation cost and many procedures to learn and remember.
The firms that used measurement software would need to spend a lot of money to
purchase the software and is time consuming for the staff to learn and remember
before the software can be utilised efficiently. However, there are some benefits by
using measurement software. The benefits include high accuracy in preparation of
BQ, easy to edit the BQ, speed up the measurement works, high traceability, user
friendly and reduction of workforce to do measurement works. It can enhance the
service quality of quantity surveying firms and meet the expectation of the clients.
Hence, it also shows that the factors that influencing the choice of the measurement
methods are include the time taken to undertake the measurement works, cost
involved for the measurement method, the accuracy of the measured quantities, the
flexibility in editing the measurement works, the conveniences in bulk checking the
measured quantities and the reduction of measurement workload.
2.14 Conclusion
Measurement is a process of measuring from drawings and recording all
dimensions of the works. There are three type of measurement methods namely,
traditional measurement method, computer spreadsheet systems method and
specialist software method. This chapter also highlighted the factors influencing the
choice of measurement methods and the problems of the measurement methods.
Basically, the factors and problems of the measurement methods are related to the
time, cost, accuracy, flexibility and traceability of the measurement works.
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The following chapter will discuss about the research methodology which
includes the type of research method, research instrument and methods of data
analysis to approach the study objectives.
37
CHAPTER 3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter will discuss the methodology applied in attaining the objective
of this research. The research process is divided into five stages as shown below:
a) Initial stage – Identification of issues and problem statement
b) Second stage – Literature review
c) Third stage – Research design
d) Fourth stage – Data analysis and discussion
e) Final stage – Conclusion & recommendation
3.2 Initial Stage - Identification of Issues and Problem Statement
In the initial stage of the study, a wide area of topic will be studied. It is
basically concentrated on the Quantity Surveyor issues and field due to requirement
38
of my degree programme. It can be studied from the secondary source such as
journals, previous research, articles and books. The problems occurred from certain
issue arisen from a certain topic will be analysed. Then, the research‟s topic will be
formulated. After that, the objectives will be formed. Objective will be formed
according to the problem statement that has been identified earlier. Later on, the
scope of research will be stated and followed by the significance of the study.
3.3 Second Stage – Literature Review
Literature review is the essential stage in conducting a research. It involved a
lot of reading and appraising what other people have written to provide a theoretical
base for the research. The literature review serves two purposes. Firstly, it helps the
researcher to gather information to have a better understanding of the research title.
Secondly, the literature review helps to give insight on how to design the study more
effectively (Naoum, 2007). Hence, journals and books related to the Quantity
Surveying measurement methods had been reviewed to grasp an idea to conducting
the study.
3.4 Third Stage - Research Design
The research design is an action plan to attaining the objectives of the study.
According to Naoum (2007), quantitative research is used as inquiry into social or
human problem which is based on testing hypothesis or theory composed of
variables, measured with numbers, and analyzed with statistical procedures, in order
to determine whether the hypothesis or the theory hold true. Hence, the strategy used
for this research will be quantitative research.
39
3.4.1 Data Collection
There are three practical approaches associated with primary data collection
namely survey approach, case study approach and problem-solving approach. For
this research, survey approach was used to achieve the objective. The instrument
used for data collection in this research is questionnaire. Questionnaire is a quick
and economic method for conducting the survey. Besides that, it provides high
validity results and suitable to be used for wide geographical area surveys. First of
all, the list of registered QS consulting firms in Malaysia with their addresses and
email addresses were obtained from the Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia
(BQSM). Next, the questionnaires were distributed to the firms through post, email
and direct visit. Besides that, online questionnaires (Google Doc.) were also used
because it can save time, cost and it had higher rate of return.
3.4.2 Development of Questionnaire
A well designed questionnaire is important to get the best responses and
results. Hence, the questions must be well-organised and designed to achieve the
objective of the research. With this, the questions should be as clear and concise as
possible without any sense of ambiguity arising from those questions.
The questionnaire is divided into 4 sections. They are:
a) Section A: General Information.
b) Section B: Measurement Methods Undertaken By QS Consulting Firms. This
section is to measure the frequency of the type of measurement
methods undertaken by quantity surveying consultant firms in
Malaysia.
c) Section C: Factors Influencing the Choice of Measurement Methods. This
section is to identify the factors influencing the QS consulting firms
to use the chosen measurement methods.
40
d) Section D: Problems Encountered In Using the Chosen Measurement Methods.
This section is to identify problems encountered when practicing the
chosen measurement methods.
3.4.3 Population
In this study, the populations of the study were the QS consulting firms in
Malaysia. Based on the list of QS consulting firms obtained from Board of Quantity
Surveyors Malaysia (BQSM), there are a total of 340 QS consulting firms in
Malaysia.
3.4.4 Sampling
According to Naoum (2007), the term „sample‟ means a specimen or part of a
whole (population) which is drawn to show what the rest is like. The sample in this
study involves QS consulting firms in Malaysia. The list of respondents was
obtained from the Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia (BQSM) official websites.
41
Table 3.1: Krejcie and Morgan’s Table (Krejcie. and Morgan, 1970)
N S N S N S
10 10 220 140 1200 291
15 14 230 144 1300 297
20
19 240 148 1400 302
25 24 250 152 1500 306
30 28 260 155 1600 310
35 32 270 159 1700 313
40 36 280 162 1800 317
45 40 290 165 1900 320
50 44 300 169 2000 322
55 48 320 175 2200 327
60 52 340 181 2400 331
65 56 360 186 2600 335
70 59 380 191 2800 338
75 63 400 196 3000 341
80 66 420 201 3500 346
85 70 440 205 4000 351
90 73 460 210 4500 354
95 76 480 214 5000 357
100 80 500 217 6000 361
110 86 550 226 7000 364
120 92 600 234 8000 367
130 97 650 242 9000 368
140 103 700 248 10000 370
150 108 750 254 15000 375
160 113 800 260 20000 377
170 118 850 265 30000 379
180 123 900 269 40000 380
190 127 950 274 50000 381
200 132 1000 278 75000 382
210 136 1100 285 100000 384
N = Population; S = Sampling Size
According to the list of registered quantity surveying consulting firms obtained from
the Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia (BQSM), the number of registered QS
consulting firms with BQSM in Malaysia is 340. Based on the Krejcie and Morgan‟s
Table, the suggested sampling size is 181. However, according to Mohd. Najib
Abdul Ghafar (2003), the minimum sample size is 30.
42
A total 340 questionnaire were distributed via post and email. Part of the
questionnaire surveys are conducted using online questionnaire surveys. However,
only 54 questionnaires were returned
3.5 Fourth Stage - Data Analysis
Method used to analyse the data is descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistic
is the simplest method to analyse data and provides overview of the results. It gives
an idea of what is happening. Normally descriptive statistic will either analyse the
data in percentages or actual numbers (Naoum, 2007).
Data obtained from questionnaires are processed through Microsoft Excel
2007 to transform the raw data into meaningful information that can be used to
achieve the research objectives. The methods used are as follows:
i. Frequency Distribution
Frequency distribution was used to summarise large amount of raw data. It is
used to distribute the data into categories to determine the number of
individuals or cases belonging to each category. The highest percentage or
frequency shows the most preferred answers among the respondents. The
results can be presented in the form of tabulation, pie chart, graph or bar chart.
The percentage or frequency calculation is as the following:
Percentage (%) = Frequency of Selected Answer X 100%
Total Respondents
(Naoum, 2007)
43
ii. Mean
This method was used to analyse the likert scale questions. The ranging
from 1-5 with indication from never to very frequent or from not important to
most important and strongly disagrees to strongly agree. All the raw data
from the questionnaires was first tabulated for further analysis. The data
extracted from the questionnaires was analysed by using the mean method.
Coolidge (2006) mentioned that mean is preferable as its mathematical
formula is the arithmetic average of a set of scores. A mean score is required
in order to examine the level of important of the factors influencing the
choice of measurement methods and level of agreement of the problems
encountered in using the chosen measurement methods. Mean score is
calculated by adding all the values in the group and then dividing by the
number of values.
Mean Range
This method of analysis is used to analyze the questions in Section B, C & D
of the questionnaire. The ranging from 1 – 5 with indication from never to
very frequent in Section B, from not important to most important in Section C
and from strongly disagree to strongly agree in Section D.
i) Mean Range = Large Scale – Smallest Scale
5
= (5 – 1) / 5
= 0.80
(Levin et. al., 2000)
44
For Section B, the mean range is divided into five categories namely never,
seldom, medium, frequent and very frequent. The following scale will be
used for illustrating the finding in Section B to make the findings more
understandable as follows:
Frequency Mean Value
Never 1.00 – 1.80
Seldom 1.80 – 2.60
Medium 2.60 – 3.40
Frequent 3.40 – 4.20
Very Frequent 4.20 – 5.00
For Section C, the mean range is divided into five categories namely not
important, slightly important, important, very important and most important.
The following scale will be used for illustrating the finding in Section C to
make the findings more understandable as follows:
Frequency Mean Value
Not Important 1.00 – 1.80
Slightly
Important 1.80 – 2.60
Important 2.60 – 3.40
Very Important 3.40 – 4.20
Most Important 4.20 – 5.00
For Section D, the mean range is divided into five categories namely strongly
disagree, disagree, neither agree nor disagree, agree and strongly agree. The
following scale will be used for illustrating the finding in Section D to make
the findings more understandable as follows:
45
Frequency Mean Value
Strongly
Disagree 1.00 – 1.80
Disagree 1.80 – 2.60
Neither Agree
Nor Disagree 2.60 – 3.40
Agree 3.40 – 4.20
Strongly Agree 4.20 – 5.00
Mean Score
This method of analysis is used to analyze Section B, C & D of the
questionnaire. The mean score can be calculated using the formulae below:
Mean Value, 𝜒 = ∑aiXi
∑Xi
Where: 𝜒 = Mean Value
∑aiXi = The sum of all the scores in the set
∑Xi = The number of scores or observations in the set
(Abd. Majid & Caffer, 1997)
Scale Scale Score Frequencies
Never 1 8
Seldom 2 14
Medium 3 30
Frequent 4 33
Very Frequent 5 15
46
Mean Value = (1 x 8) + (2 x 14) + (3 x 30) + (4 x 33) + (5 x 15)
8 + 14 + 30 + 33 + 15
Mean Value = 3.33
The mean value for this problem statement is 3.33 which will falls in the
range of Medium (2.60 – 3.40) base on the mean range.
3.6 Final Stage - Conclusion and Recommendation
After the results of the analysis have been interpreted, it will be presented in
context. This stage is where the researchers present the final result of the study
based on the evidence obtained from the analysis. Based on the analysed data, the
researcher will draw a conclusion toward the objective of the study. Furthermore,
the personal recommendation will be given for future study and limitations of the
study also will be stated in this stage.
3.7 Conclusion
In conclusion, this chapter described in detail how this study was conducted.
The study was started from the initial stage until the final stage. All the data
obtained from questionnaire were analysed to attain the objectives of the study. The
following chapter will discuss about the data analysis and findings.
47
3.8 Flow Chart of Research Methodology
Flow Chart of Research Process
Figure 3.1: Flow Chart of Research Process
IDENTIFICATION OF ISSUES AND PROBLEM
STATEMENTS
- Identify the Issues and Problem Statements
- Research Topic
- Research Questions
- Research Objectives
- Significance of the Study
- Scope of the Study
LITERATURE REVIEW
Sources: Journals, books,
internet resources, previous
thesis and others.
DATA ANALYSIS &
DISCUSSION
- The collected data is analysed using descriptive statistics
method.
CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION
- All conclusions and recommendations
were made based on findings gained.
Stage 1
DATA
COLLECTION
Primary Data
- Questionnaire survey
- 340 questionnaires were distributed
to registered QS consultant firms.
Stage 2
Stage 3
Stage 4
Stage 5
48
CHAPTER 4
DATA ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS
4.1 Introduction
This chapter discusses the results of analysis and the findings from the
questionnaire surveys in relation to the three (3) objectives of the study. This chapter
consists of five parts. The firsts and second discussed the background of the
questionnaires and respondents. The third part discusses the measurement methods
undertaken by QS consulting firms. Factor influencing the choice of measurement
methods is discussed in the fourth part and problems encountered in using the chosen
measurement methods are discussed in the fifth part.
4.2 Questionnaires Delivered
A total of 340 questionnaires were distributed to all the registered quantity
surveying consulting firm in Malaysia through postal, email, online survey form
(Google Doc.) and direct visit. 54 questionnaires were returned, representing 15.88%
from the total distributed questionnaires. All the data collected from the
49
questionnaires were analysed and used as the basis of the study. Table 4.1 shows the
summary of questionnaires delivered and returned.
Table 4.1: Summary of Questionnaires Delivered
Figure 4.1: Questionnaires Delivered
15.88%
84.12%
Percentage (%)
Returned Questionnaires
Un-Returned Questionnaires
Questionnaires Status Qty Percentage (%)
Returned Questionnaires 54 15.88
Un-Returned
Questionnaires
286 84.12
Total 340 100
50
4.3 Location of Respondents
Table 4.2 and Figure 4.2 show the composition of respondents‟ location.
Majority of respondents were from Selangor and Kuala Lumpur representing 27.78%
and representing 25.93%. 12.96% of respondents were from Johor and 9.26% from
both Sabah and Penang. The percentage of respondents from Sarawak was 7.41%.
3.70% of the respondents were from Terengganu, 1.85% from both Kelantan and
kedah.
Table 4.2: Numbers of Respondents by Location
Figure 4.2: Percentage of Respondents by Location
25.93%
27.78%
7.41%
9.26%1.85%
9.26%
3.70% 12.96%
1.85% Kuala Lumpur
Selangor
Sarawak
Sabah
Kelantan
Penang
Terengganu
Johor
Kedah
Location of
Respondents Numbers Percentage (%)
Kuala Lumpur 14 25.93
Selangor 15 27.78
Sarawak 4 7.41
Sabah 5 9.26
Kelantan 1 1.85
Penang 5 9.26
Terengganu 2 3.70
Johor 7 12.96
Kedah 1 1.85
51
4.4 Measurement Methods Undertaken By QS Consultant Firms
This section discusses the measurement methods used by QS consulting firms.
From the data obtained from the questionnaires, the most commonly used method for
measurement is Computer Spreadsheet Systems where 50 out of 54 respondents use
the Computer Spreadsheet System. On the other hand, 40 out of 50 respondents have
use Specialist Software and the least used method by the QS consulting firms is the
Traditional Measurement Method, being used by 29 out of 54 respondents. Table 4.3
and Figure 4.3 show the frequency of each method and the percentage.
Table 4.3: Measurement Methods used by QS Consulting Firms
Figure 4.3: Comparison of the Types of Measurement Methods Used by QS
Consulting Firms
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
60.00%
70.00%
80.00%
90.00%
100.00%
53.70%
92.59%
72.22%
Traditional Measurement MethodComputer Spreadsheet SystemsSpecialist Software
Per
cen
tage
(%)
Type of Method Frequency Percentage (%)
Traditional Measurement Method 29 53.70
Computer Spreadsheet Systems 50 92.59
Specialist Software 39 72.22
Others 0 0.00
52
Table 4.3 also reflects that the QS consulting firms use a combination of the
different methods.
Figure 4.3 shows that majority of the firm‟s use Computer Spreadsheet
Systems in their measurement works. This is probably because the Computer
Spreadsheet Systems is cheaper compared to the Specialist Software The Specialist
Software is the second most commonly used method followed by the Traditional
Measurement Methods. There were no other methods stated by the respondents.
Hence, these are the three methods used by the QS consulting firms.
4.4.1 Usage of the Measurement Methods
This section will discuss about the level of usage for each type of the
measurement methods used by the QS consultant firms. Respondents were asked to
rate the level of usage for each type of measurement method. Five point Likert scale
was used for this section analysis, where “1” represents “Never Use” and “5” reflects
“Very Frequent Use”.
The mean score for each measurement method was calculated to identify the
level of usage for each type of measurement method. The mean score and category
for level of usage was explained in Chapter 3. Table 4.4 shows the category for level
of usage and Table 4.5 shows the overall mean value for the measurement methods.
Table 4.4: Category for Level of Usage
Frequency Mean Value
Never 1.00 – 1.80
Seldom 1.80 – 2.60
Medium 2.60 – 3.40
Frequent 3.40 – 4.20
Very Frequent 4.20 – 5.00
53
Table 4.5: Usage of the Measurement Methods
Figure 4.4: Mean Value for the Measurement Methods
Table 4.5 & Figure 4.4 shows the mean values for the measurement
methods used by the firms to undertaken their measurement works. According to
Table 4.5 & Figure 4.4, the methods that obtained the highest mean value is
Computer Spreadsheet Systems method. This shows Computer Spreadsheet Systems
is the most frequent used method compared to others. Meanwhile, Specialist
Software method has a mean value 3.11 indicating that the respondents have medium
usage of this method. Accordingly, the mean value for the Traditional Method is 2.20
which fell in the category of seldom use, reflecting that the respondents seldom use
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
2.20
4.06
3.11
0.00
Mean Value
No. Type of Measurement
Method
Frequencies for Likert Scale Mean
Level of
Usage 1 2 3 4 5 Total
1 Traditional Methods 25 13 4 4 8 54 2.20 Seldom
2 Computer Spreadsheet
Systems 4 1 8 16 25 54 4.06 Frequent
3 Specialist Software 15 5 8 11 15 54 3.11 Medium
4 Others 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 N/A
54
the traditional method for measurement works. This shows that the Traditional
Measurement Methods is being slowly replaced by the Specialist Software and
Computer Spreadsheet Systems. Thus, currently the most frequent used measurement
method in the QS consulting firms is the Computer Spreadsheet Systems.
4.4.2 Types of the Traditional Systems Used
Table 4.6 shows the frequencies of the traditional systems used by QS
consulting firms in the measurement works. Based on the analysis, traditional
abstract and bill method is the most commonly used method among these QS
consulting firms. Meanwhile, Cut and Shuffle System is the second most commonly
method used and Slip Sorting System is the least commonly used systems among the
respondents. There are no other traditional systems stated by respondents, reflecting
that currently there are three traditional system used.
Table 4.6: Types of Traditional Systems Used by QS Consulting Firms
Type of Method Frequency Percentage (%)
Cut and shuffle system 18 62.07
Traditional abstract & bill method 22 75.86
Slip sorting system 16 55.17
Others 0 0.00
55
Figure 4.5: Comparison of Traditional Systems
Figure 4.5 shows the comparison between the Traditional Systems. Based on
the analysis, 75.86% of the firms adopted traditional abstract and bill method in their
practice. On the other hand, 62.07% of the firms adopted cut and shuffle system and
followed by slip sorting system. This shows that the most of the QS firms have
adopted traditional abstract & bill method compared to the other two methods or
systems. Therefore, it can be concluded that most of the QS consulting firms have
adopted traditional abstract and bill method.
4.4.3 Level of Usage for Traditional Systems
This section discusses the level of usage for each type of traditional systems
used by the QS consultant firms. Respondents were asked to rate the level of usage
for each type of the traditional systems. Four point Likert scale was used for this
section, where “1” represents “Never Use” and “4” reflects “Frequent Use”.
The frequency for each traditional system was calculated to identify the level
of usage for each type of traditional systems. The frequency distribution was
0.00% 20.00% 40.00% 60.00% 80.00%
62.07%
75.86%
55.17%
Others
Slip sorting system
Traditional abstract & bill method
Cut and Shuffle system
Typ
eof
Tra
dit
ional
56
explained in Chapter 3. Table 4.7 shows the overall frequency for the Traditional
Systems.
Table 4.7: Usage of Traditional Systems
No. Type of Traditional
Systems
Frequencies for Likert
Scale
1 2 3 4 Total
1 Cut and shuffle system 11 8 5 5 29
2 Traditional abstract &
bill method 7 9 8 5 29
3 Slip sorting system 13 6 4 6 29
4 Others 0 0 0 0 0
Figure 4.6: Percentage for the Usage of Traditional Systems
37.93%
24.14%
44.83%
27.59%
31.03%
20.69%
17.24%
27.59%
13.79%
17.24%
17.24%
20.69%
0.00% 20.00% 40.00% 60.00%
Cut and Shuffle system
Traditional abstract & bill method
Slip sorting system
Frequent
Medium
Seldom
Never
Percentage (%)
57
Table 4.7 & Figure 4.6 show the usage of the traditional systems. Table 4.7 &
Figure 4.6 shows that the traditional system has the highest percentage in frequent
usage is Slip Sorting System although most of the firms have adopted Traditional
Abstract and Bill method. Hence, the most frequent use traditional system is Slip
Sorting System.
4.4.4 Type of Computer Spreadsheet Systems Used
Table 4.8 shows the computer spreadsheet systems used by QS consulting
firms in their measurement works. Based on the analysis, Microsoft Excel is the most
common computer spreadsheet systems adopted by the respondents. The second
highest is Accel Spreadsheet followed by OpenOffice. The fourth highest is Lotus 1-
2-3 and Gnumeric is the second lowest among the computer spreadsheet systems
adopted by QS consulting firms. The least popular computer spreadsheet system is
KSpread and there are no other computer spreadsheet systems stated by the
respondents.
Table 4.8: Type of Computer Spreadsheet Systems Used by QS Consulting
Firms
Type of Computer Spreadsheet
Systems Qty Percentage (%)
Accel Spreadsheet 15 30.00
Gnumeric 2 4.00
KSpread 1 2.00
Lotus 1-2-3 3 6.00
Microsoft Excel
49 98.00
OpenOffice 9 18.00
Others 0 0.00
58
Figure 4.7: Comparison of Computer Spreadsheet Systems
Figure 4.7 show that 98.00% of the firms adopted Microsoft Excel in their
measurement works. This is probably due to the fact that Microsoft Excel is very
common in our country and easy to acquire. While Accel Spreadsheets is the second
highest, which is 30.00%, followed by Openoffice, 18.00%, Lotus 1-2-3, 6.00%,
Gnumeric, 4.00% and KSpread, 2.00%. Hence, Microsoft Excel is the most adopted
Computer Spreadsheet System in QS consulting firms.
4.4.5 Level of Usage for Computer Spreadsheet Systems
This section discusses the level of usage for each type of Computer
Spreadsheet Systems used by the QS consultant firms. Respondents were asked to
rate the level of usage for each type of Computer Spreadsheet Systems. Four point
Likert scale was used for this section analysis, where “1” represented “Never Use”
and “4” reflected “Frequent Use”.
The frequency for each Computer Spreadsheet systems was calculated to
identify the level of usage for each type of Computer Spreadsheet Systems. The
0.00% 20.00% 40.00% 60.00% 80.00% 100.00%
30.00%
4.00%
2.00%
6.00%
98.00%
18.00%
0.00%Others
Openoffice
Microsoft Excel
Lotus 1 - 2 - 3
Kspread
Gnumeric
Accel Spreadsheet
59
frequency distribution was explained in Chapter 3. Table 4.9 shows the overall
frequency for the Computer Spreadsheet Systems.
Table 4.9: Usage of Computer Spreadsheet Systems
No. Type of Computer
Spreadsheet Systems
Frequencies for Likert
Scale
1 2 3 4 Total
1 Accel Spreadsheet 35 0 4 1 50
2 Gnumeric 48 2 0 0 50
3 KSpread 49 1 0 0 50
4 Lotus 1-2-3 47 3 0 0 50
5 Microsoft Excel 1 1 5 43 50
6 Openoffice 4 3 2 4 50
7 Others 0 0 0 0 0
60
Figure 4.8: Percentage for the Usage of Computer Spread Systems
Table 4.9 & Figure 4.8 show the usage of computer spreadsheet systems.
Table 4.9 & Figure 4.8 show that Microsoft Excel has the highest percentage in
frequent usage. Hence, it can be concluded that the most frequent use Computer
Spreadsheet system in QS consulting firms is Microsoft Excel.
70.00%
96.00%
98.00%
94.00%
2.00%
82.00%
0.00%
4.00%
2.00%
6.00%
2.00%
6.00%
8.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
10.00%
4.00%
22.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
86.00%
8.00%
0.00% 20.00% 40.00% 60.00% 80.00% 100.00% 120.00%
Accel Spreadsheet
Gnumeric
Kspread
Lotus 1 - 2 - 3
Microsoft Excel
Openoffice
Frequent
Medium
Seldom
Never
Usage of The Computer Spreadsheet Systems
Percentage (%)
61
4.4.6 Type of Specialist Software Used
Table 4.10 and Figure 4.9 show the Specialist Software used by QS
consulting firm. Based on the analysis, the most popular specialist software used in
the firms is Buildsoft, it probably because Buildsoft is more well known by QS
compared to others specialist software. While the second highest are CATO
CADmeasure and Autodesk. On the other hand, CostX and Glodon are the third
highest and followed by Binalink. RIPAC and So Easy software‟s are the fifth
highest. According to the analysis, Masterbill is the second lowest and the lowest are
QsCad, Terramodel and Briscad.
Table 4.10: Type of Specialist Software Used by QS Consulting Firms
Type of Method Qty Percentage (%)
CATO CADmeasure 7 17.95
Masterbill 3 7.69
QsCad 1 2.56
Buildsoft 14 35.90
RIPAC 3 7.96
DimensionX 0 0.00
Autodesk 7 17.95
CostX 6 15.38
Others
Binalink 5 12.82
So Easy 3 7.69
Glodon 6 15.38
Terramodel 1 2.56
Briscad 1 2.56
AtlesPro 1 2.56
62
Figure 4.9: Comparison of Specialist Software’s
Figure 4.9 shows 35.90% of the Qs consultant firms adopted Buildsoft in
their measurement works. It is the highest among the Specialist software. Out of 14
software, CATO CADmeasure and Autodesk are the second highest Specialist
Software with 17.95% each. The third highest are CostX and Glodon which is 15.38%
each followed by Binalink, 12.82%, Masterbill, RIPAC and So Easy, 7.69%, and
QsCad, Teramodel, Briscad and AtlesPro 1.85% each. The least adopted Specialist
Software is the DimensionX which is 0%. This indicates that not all the QS softwares
are familiar to QS in Malaysia. Hence, it can be conclude that the most adopted
Specialist Software in QS consulting firms is Buildsoft.
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
40.00%
17.95%
7.69%
2.56%
35.90%
7.69%
0.00%
17.95% 15.38%
12.82%
7.69%
15.38%
2.56%
2.56%
2.56%
CATO CADmeasure Masterbill
Qscad
Buildsoft
RIPAC
DimensionX
Autodesk
CostX
Binalink
So Easy
Glodon
Terramodel
Briscad
AtlesPro
Specialist Softwares
Type of Specialist Software's
63
4.4.7 Level of Usage for Specialist Software
This section will discuss about the level of usage for each type of Specialist
Software‟s used by the QS consultant firms. Respondents were asked to rate the level
of usage for each type of Specialist Software. Four point Likert scale was used for
this section analysis, where “1” represented “Never Use” and “4” reflected “Frequent
Use”.
The frequency for each Specialist Software was calculated to identify the
level of usage for each type of Specialist Software. The frequency distribution was
explained in Chapter 3. Table 4.11 showed the overall frequency for the Specialist
Software.
Table 4.11: Usage of the Specialist Software’s
No. Type of Computer
Spreadsheet Systems
Frequencies for Likert
Scale
1 2 3 4 Total
1 CATO CAmeasure 32 1 2 4 39
2 Masterbill 36 2 0 1 39
3 QsCad 38 0 0 1 39
4 Buildsoft 25 3 4 7 39
5 RIPAC 36 1 0 2 39
6 DimensionX 39 0 0 0 39
7 Autodesk 32 1 3 3 39
8 CostX 32 0 2 4 39
9 Others 39
- Binalink 34 0 2 3 39
- So Easy 36 0 0 3 39
- Glodon 33 1 2 3 39
- Terramodel 38 0 0 1 39
- Briscad 38 0 0 1 39
AtlesPro 38 0 0 1 39
64
Figure 4.10: Percentage for the Usage of the Specialist Software
82.05%
92.31%
97.44%
64.10%
92.31%
100.00%
82.05%
84.62%
87.18%
92.31%
84.62%
97.44%
97.44%
97.44%
2.56%
5.13%
0.00%
7.69%
2.56%
0.00%
2.56%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
2.56%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
5.13%
0.00%
0.00%
10.26%
0.00%
0.00%
7.69%
5.13%
5.13%
0.00%
5.13%
0.00%
0.00%
2.56%
10.26%
2.56%
2.56%
17.95%
5.13%
0.00%
7.69%
10.26%
7.69%
7.69%
7.69%
2.56%
2.56%
0.00%
0.00% 20.00% 40.00% 60.00% 80.00% 100.00% 120.00%
CATO CADmeasure
Masterbill
Qscad
Buildsoft
RIPAC
DimensionX
Autodesk
CostX
Binalink
So Easy
Glodon
Terramodel
Briscad
AtlesPro
Frequent
Medium
Seldom
Never
Percentage (%)
65
Table 4.11 and Figure 4.10 show the usage of Specialist Software. Based on
the analysis, Buildsoft has the highest percentage in frequent usage 17.95%. The
Specialist Software that has the second highest percentage is CATO CADmeasure
and CostX with 10.26% each. Therefore, it can be concluded that the most frequent
use Specialist Software in QS consulting firms is Buildsoft.
4.5 Factors Influencing the Choice of Measurement Methods
This section discusses the factors influencing the choice of measurement
method. Respondents were asked to rate the level of importance for each of the six
factors given that influence the choice of the measurement methods. A five point
Likert scale was used, where “1” represents “Not Important” and “5” reflects“Most
Important”.
The mean score for the factors was tabulated and then ranked from the
highest to the lowest, as shown in Table 4.13. Table 4.13 identifies the mean value
for each factor. The category for level of satisfaction is as explained in Chapter 3.
Table 4.12 shows the category for level of importance.
Table 4.12: Category of Importance
Frequency Mean Value
Not Important 1.00 – 1.80
Slightly
Important 1.80 – 2.60
Important 2.60 – 3.40
Very Important 3.40 – 4.20
Most Important 4.20 – 5.00
66
Table 4.13: The Importance Level for Factors Influencing the Choice of
Measurement Methods
Figure 4.11: Comparison of the Factors Influencing the Choice of Measurement
Methods
4.48
3.87
4.69
4.37 4.284.13
0.00
0.50
1.00
1.50
2.00
2.50
3.00
3.50
4.00
4.50
5.00
Mean Value
The time taken to undertake the measurement works.
The cost involved in undertaking the measurement works.
The accuracy of the measured quantities.
The flexibility in editing the measurement works.
The conveniences in bulk checking the measured quantities.
Factors Frequencies of Likert Scale
Mean Ranking Category 1 2 3 4 5 Total
The accuracy of the
measured quantities.
0 0 3 11 40 54 4.69 1 Most
Important
The time taken to
undertake the
measurement works
0 0 6 16 32 54 4.48 2 Most
Important
The flexibility in editing
the measurement works
0 0 6 22 26 54 4.37 3 Most
Important
The conveniences in bulk
checking the measured
quantities
0 1 7 22 24 54 4.28 4 Most
Important
The reduction of
measurement workload
0 3 10 18 23 54 4.13 5 Very
Important
The cost involved in
undertaking the
measurement works.
1 1 16 22 14 54 3.87 6 Very
Important
Others 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0 N/A
67
Table 4.13 portrays the overall mean value for the importance level for six
factors influencing the choice of measurement methods to be used. The
representation shows that most of the factors were found to be in the range of Most
Important (4.20 – 5.20) whereas only two factors fall into the category of Very
Important (3.40 – 4.20). This shows that all the respondents think that all the six
factors are important.
From the analysis, majority of the respondents think that the measurement
methods that can provide the best accuracy in the measured quantities is the most
important factor that influencing the choice of measurement methods with a mean
value of 4.69. This is followed by the time taken to undertake the measurement
works with a mean value of 4.48. This shows that the first concern to choose a
measurement method to be used is the accuracy of the selected methods and the time
needed to do the measurement using the chosen measurement method. Meanwhile,
the flexibility in editing the measurement works is the third important factor with
mean value of 4.37, followed by the conveniences in bulk checking the measured
quantities with mean value of 4.28. According to table 4.13 and figure 4.11,
respondents think that the measurement workload is not a very important factors
compared to the previous mentioned factors and the least important factor is the cost
involved in undertaking the measurement works.
As pointed out earlier, majority of the respondents agreed that the accuracy of
the measured quantities is the most important factor and followed by the time to do
the measurement works. This shows that the measurement method that will be used
must provide a high reliable accuracy in the measured quantities and shorter time to
undertake the measurement works. Other than that, the flexibility in editing the
measurement works and the conveniences are also important factors influencing the
choice of the measurement methods to be used. This is because quantity surveyors
need to change their measurement and check their measured quantities if there are
any discrepancies. The reduction of workload and the cost needed to undertake the
measurement works are also important but are the two lowest ranked compared to
other factor,
68
4.6 Problems Encountered Using the Chosen Measurement Methods
This section analyses and discusses the findings of the third objective which
is to identify problems encountered using the chosen measurement methods.
This section discusses the problems for all the three types of the measurement
methods. Respondents were asked to indicate the level of agreement for each of the
seven problems given. A five point Likert scale was used, where “1” represents
“Strongly Disagree” and “5” reflects “Strongly Agree”.
The mean score for the problems was tabulated and then ranked from the
highest to the lowest. The category for level of agreement is as explained in Chapter
3. Table 4.14 shows the categories for the level of agreement.
Table 4.14: Categories for Level of Agree
Frequency Mean Value
Strongly Disagree 1.00 – 1.80
Disagree 1.80 – 2.60
Neither Agree Nor Disagree 2.60 – 3.40
Agree 3.40 – 4.20
Strongly Agree 4.20 – 5.00
69
4.6.1 Problems of Traditional Measurement Method
Table 4.15: Problems of the Traditional Measurement Method
Figure 4.12: Mean Value for Problems of the Traditional Measurement Method
0.00 2.00 4.00 6.00
4.19
3.20
3.39
3.24
2.74
2.74
3.74
0.09
Others: Data will lost if did not keep properly
Increase measurement workload.
Too costly to use.
Too complicated to use.
Difficult to trace mistake in the measurement.
Not flexible in editing the measurement works
Lack of accuracy in measured quantities.
Time consuming
Pro
ble
ms
Mean Value
Problems Frequencies of Likert Scale
Mean Category 1 2 3 4 5 Total
Time Consuming 2 1 8 17 26 54 4.19 Agree
Lack of accuracy in
measured quantities
4 13 15 12 10 54 3.20 Neither
Agree Nor
Disagree
Not flexible in editing the measurement works
2 14 13 11 14 54 3.39 Neither Agree Nor
Disagree
Difficult to trace mistake
in the measurement
5 12 14 11 12 54 3.24 Neither
Agree Nor
Disagree
Too complicated to use 7 18 14 12 3 54 2.74 Neither
Agree Nor Disagree
Too costly to use 8 14 18 12 2 54 2.74 Neither
Agree Nor
Disagree
Increase measurement
workload
3 3 12 23 13 54 3.74 Agree
Other:
Data will lost if did not keep properly
0 0 0 0 1 54 0.09 Strongly
Disagree
70
Table 4.15 portrays the overall mean value of the Agreement level for the
seven problems as indicated by the respondents. The representation shows that most
of the problems were found to be in the range of Neither Agree Nor Disagree (2.60 –
3.40) whereas only two problems fall under the category of Agree (3.40 – 4.20). It
shows that not all of the problems stated are encountered when using the traditional
measurement methods. Besides, one of the respondent stated that it is easier to lose
or kept the data when using the traditional measurement method if the measurement
data is not kept properly.
From the analysis, respondents agreed that the traditional measurement
methods are time consuming and will increase the measurement workload. The
highest mean value is time consuming which is 4.19 and followed by increase
measurement workload with a mean value of 3.74. This shows that the respondents
agreed that the traditional measurement methods is time consuming compared to
increase measurement workload. This is probably because the traditional
measurement methods involve a lot of paper work and the measurement works is
done manually. Meanwhile, the other five problems are fall under the category of
Neither Agree Nor Disagree. The problem that obtained the lowest mean value are
too complicated to use and too costly to use with both having a mean value of 2.74.
This is probably because the traditional measurement methods is cheaper and do not
involve computerised works compared to Computer Spreadsheet Systems and
Specialist Software.
It seems that the respondents agreed that the problems of the Traditional
Measurement Methods are time consuming and increase the measurement workload.
On the other hand, respondents neither agree nor disagree for the other five problems,
namely, lack of accuracy in measured quantities, not flexible in editing the
measurement works, difficult to trace mistake in the measurement, too complicated
to use and too costly to use. This is probably because the occurrence of the problems
depends on the firms.
71
4.6.2 Problems of Computer Spreadsheet Systems
Table 4.16: Problems of the Computer Spreadsheet System
Figure 4.13: Mean Value for Problems of Computer Spreadsheet Systems
0.001.00
2.003.00
2.76
2.522.26
2.48
2.202.22
2.52
0.09
Others: Have to be careful with the formula setting
Increase measurement workload.
Too costly to use.
Too complicated to use.
Difficult to trace mistake in the measurement.
Not flexible in editing the measurement works
Lack of accuracy in measured quantities.
Time consuming
Pro
ble
ms
Mean Value
Problems Frequencies of Likert Scale
Mean Category 1 2 3 4 5 Total
Time Consuming 3 24 14 9 4 54 2.76 Neither
Agree Nor
Disagree
Lack of accuracy in
measured quantities
3 27 19 3 2 54 2.52 Disagree
Not flexible in editing
the measurement
works
7 30 13 4 0 54 2.26 Disagree
Difficult to trace
mistake in the
measurement
4 27 17 5 1 54 2.48 Disagree
Too complicated to use 7 32 12 3 0 54 2.20 Disagree
Too costly to use 12 25 12 3 2 54 2.22 Disagree
Increase measurement
workload
4 24 21 4 1 54 2.52 Disagree
Other:
Need to be careful
with the formula setting
0 0 0 0 1 54 0.09 Strongly
Disagree
72
Table 4.16 portrays the overall mean value for the Agreement level for the
seven problems as indicated by the respondents. The representation shows that most
of the problems were found to be in the range of Disagree (1.80 – 2.60) whereas only
one problem fall under the category of Neither Agree Nor Disagree (2.60 – 3.60). It
shows that most of the problems were not encountered when using Computer
Spreadsheet Systems. One of the respondents stated that the care has to be taken with
the formula setting during the measurement works.
From the analysis, most of the problems given are disagreed by the
respondents. The problem with the lowest mean value is too complicated to use with
a mean value of 2.20. This reflect that the respondents are familiar with the computer
spreadsheet systems and do not think it is too complicated to use. The second lowest
mean value is too costly to use with a mean value of 2.22. This indicates that the cost
for purchasing or use the computer spreadsheet system is acceptable and reasonable
to them. The highest mean value is time consuming which is 2.76 that fall under the
category of Neither Agree Nor Disagree. This shows that some of the respondents
agreed that the computer spreadsheet systems are time consuming, while some
respondents do not think so. This is probably because some respondents are familiar
in using the computer spreadsheet systems in measurement works and some are not
It seems that the respondents disagreed with the problems given except for
the time consuming problem. The problems that the respondents disagreed are lack
of accuracy in measured quantities, not flexible in editing the measurement works,
difficult to trace mistake in the measurement, too complicated to use, too costly to
use and increase measurement workloads. This shows that computer spreadsheet
systems is quite flexible in editing, not difficult to trace mistake, not complicated to
use, not too costly to use, can provide quite accurate quantities and can reduce
measurement workload. Therefore, it can be concluded computer spreadsheet
systems are quite suitable to be used for measurement works.
73
4.6.3 Problems of Specialist Software
Table 4.17: Problems of the Specialist Software
Figure 4.14: Mean Value for Problems of the Specialist Software’s
0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00
2.28
2.13
2.50
2.54
2.80
3.41
2.48
0.00
Others
Increase measurement workload.
Too costly to use.
Too complicated to use.
Difficult to trace mistake in the measurement.
Not flexible in editing the measurement works
Lack of accuracy in measured quantities.
Time consuming
Pro
ble
ms
Mean Value
Specialist Software's Method
Problems Frequencies of Likert Scale
Mean Category 1 2 3 4 5 Total
Time Consuming 14 20 13 5 2 54 2.28 Disagree
Lack of accuracy in
measured quantities
11 27 15 0 1 54 2.13 Disagree
Not flexible in editing the
measurement works
8 22 15 7 2 54 2.50 Disagree
Difficult to trace mistake
in the measurement
6 22 19 5 2 54 2.54 Disagree
Too complicated to use 4 17 20 12 1 54 2.80 Neither Agree Nor
Disagree
Too costly to use 3 9 15 17 10 54 3.41 Agree
Increase measurement
workload
6 24 19 2 3 54 2.48 Disagree
Other:
Need to be careful with
the formula setting
0 0 0 0 0 54 0.00 N/A
74
Table 4.20 shows the overall mean value for the Agreement level for the
seven problems as indicated by the respondents. The representation shows that most
of the problems were found to be in the range of Disagree (1.80 – 2.60) and two fall
under the category of Neither Agree Nor Disagree (2.60 – 3.60) and Agree (3.50 –
4.20). Respectively it shows that most of the problems were not encountered when
using Specialist Software.
From the analysis, the respondents agreed that Specialist Software is too
costly to use. The mean value for this problem is 3.41 which is the highest among the
others problems. The problem of too complicated to use have the second highest
mean value of 2.80, which falls under the category of Neither Agree Nor Disagree.
This shows that some of the respondents think that the Specialist Software is too
complicated to use and some of them do not think so. This is probably because not
all the QS firms are familiar with using the Specialist Software in their measurement
works. On the other hand, the respondents do not think that the Specialist Software is
time consuming, lack of accuracy, not flexible in editing, difficult to trace mistake
and increase the measurement workload. This is probably because the Specialist
Software has various functions that can help Quantity Surveyors to reduce mistake,
time and difficulty in the measurement works.
According to the findings, the main problem for Specialist Software is too
costly to use. This is probably due to the price of the Specialist Software which is
very expensive to install in every QS computer in the firms. In contrary, lack of
accuracy in measurement quantities, not flexible in editing the measurement works,
difficult to trace mistake in the measurement and increase the measurement workload
are not the problems with the Specialist Software. The analysis also shows that the
Specialist Software is not complicated to use.
75
CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 Introduction
This chapter concludes the overall study that have been conducted with
regards to the measurement methods undertaken by QS consultant firms, factors
influencing the choice of measurement methods and problems encountered using the
chosen measurement methods. The predicaments encountered during the conduct of
the study will also be discussed in this chapter. Future recommended studies are
highlighted at the end of the chapter.
5.2 Conclusion
The objective of the study is to identify measurement methods undertaken by
QS consultant firms, to determine factors influencing their choice of measurement
methods and to identify problems encountered using the chosen measurement
methods. The conclusion of the study is divided into 3 sections: types of
measurement methods undertaken by QS consultant firms, factors influencing their
76
choice of measurement methods and problems encountered using the chosen
measurement methods. The conclusion is made in accordance with the objectives of
the study.
5.2.1 Types of measurement methods undertaken by QS Consultant Firms
From the analysis, it can be concluded that all of the measurement methods
mentioned in the questionnaire; traditional measurement method, computer
spreadsheet system method and specialist software method are being used in QS
consulting firms. Among these three methods, the most frequent used method by QS
consulting firms is the computer spreadsheet system, followed by specialist software
and traditional measurement methods. On the other hand, the most adopted type of
traditional systems in QS consulting firms is the traditional abstract and bill method.
However, it is not the most frequent used traditional system in QS consulting firm.
The most frequent use traditional system is Slip and Sorting System. This indicated
that although the most adopted traditional systems in QS consulting firm is
Traditional Abstract and Bills method, but it is not the most frequent used method in
the QS consulting firms. Meanwhile, the type of computer spreadsheet systems that
most adopted and most frequent used in QS consulting firms is Microsoft Excel. For
the specialist software, the type of Specialist Software that most adopted and most
frequent used in QS consulting firms is Buildsoft.
5.2.2 Factors Influencing the Choice of Measurement Methods
From the analysis, there are four most important factors that influence the
choice of measurement methods which included the accuracy of the measured
quantities, the time taken to undertake the measurement works, the flexibility in
editing the measurement works and the conveniences in bulk checking the measured
quantities. It can therefore be concluded that these four factors are main factors
77
influencing the choice of measurement methods to be used in the QS consulting
firms.
5.2.3 Problems Encountered Using the Chosen Measurement Methods
From the analysis, the main problems in using the traditional methods are
time consuming and increase measurement workload. There are no problems
encountered using the computer spreadsheet system, and the main problem with the
specialist software is that they are too costly to be used.
5.3 Limitations of Study
Throughout the entire process of the study, the problems encountered include:
i. 340 sets of questionnaire have been distributed to the respondents but only 54
sets of questionnaire were returned.
ii. Distribution of questionnaire through postal is quite costly and time
consuming.
78
5.4 Recommendation for Future Study
Based on the findings and conclusions of the study, the following are several
recommendations for future study.
i. Investigate the skills of QS students in using Microsoft Excel to do
measurement.
ii. Compare the benefit of using computer spreadsheet systems and specialist
software in measurement.
iii. For future study, it is also recommended that the numbers of respondents
involved should be higher to increase the accuracy of the findings and data
collection techniques should include interviews to improve the accuracy of
data.
79
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APPENDIX A
Form of Questionnaire
86
TITLE OF STUDY:
MEASUREMENT METHODS IN QUANTITY SURVEYING CONSULTANT
FIRMS
QUESTIONNAIRE
Objectives of the Study:
1. To identify measurement methods undertaken by QS consultant firms.
2. To determine factors influencing their choice of measurement methods.
3. To identify problems encountered using the chosen measurement methods.
This questionnaire is used to collect data for the above study. All information will be
kept CONFIDENTIAL and will only be used for academic purposes.
Please kindly return the completed questionnaire using the envelope provided or
scan and email to [email protected]
Your cooperation is highly appreciated.
Thank you.
Chen Kah Yong (B11BE0006)
3SBEQ (Bachelor of Quantity Surveying)
016-884 8789
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Sr. Dr. Fadhlin Abdullah
DEPARTMENT OF QUANTITY
SURVEYING
FACULTY OF BUILT
ENVIRONMENT
87
SECTION A: GENERAL INFORMATION
1) Name of Firm:
_________________________________________________________________
2) Firm Address: __________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
3) E-Mail Address: __________________________________________________
4) Firm‟s Stamp:
5) Name of respondent: ____________________________________________
6) Position of respondent : ____________________________________________
7) Signature:
88
SECTION B:
MEASUREMENT METHODS UNDERTAKEN BY QS CONSULTANT
FIRMS
1. Please indicate the measurement methods undertaken by your firm.
Methods
Categories
Never
( 1 )
Seldom
( 2 )
Medium
( 3 )
Frequent
( 4 )
Very
Frequent
( 5 )
i. Traditional measurement methods:
Taking-off, working up and
squaring the dimensions are done
by hand using dimension paper and
other tools.
ii. Computer spreadsheet systems:
Taking-off is done using computer
spreadsheet system to insert data,
manipulate the taking-off data,
squaring the inserted dimension
and total up the measurement
quantities automatically, instantly
and correctly.
iii. Specialist Software for
measurement:
Taking-off is done using specialist
software as a tool to trace the
dimension and quantities from the
digital drawing files (PDF, DWF,
DFX & Etc) and automatically
calculate the quantities and transfer
it to Bills of Quantities.
iv. If others, please specify:
_______________________
_______________________
_______________________
89
2. If your firm uses the traditional measurement methods for measurement, please
indicate level of use of the traditional system adopted by your firm.
Type of traditional systems
Categories
Never
( 1 )
Seldom
( 2 )
Medium
( 3 )
Frequent
( 4 )
i. Cut and shuffle system.
ii. Traditional abstract & bill method
iii. Slip sorting system
iv. Others (Please specify):
________________________________
3. If your firm uses computer spreadsheet system for measurement, please indicate
the level of use of the spreadsheet program adopted by your firm.
Type of computer spreadsheet systems
Categories
Never
( 1 )
Seldom
( 2 )
Medium
( 3 )
Frequent
( 4 )
i. Accel Spreadsheet
ii. Gnumeric
iii. KSpread
iv. Lotus 1-2-3
v. Microsoft Excel 2003/2007/2010
vi. OpenOffice.org
vii. Others (Please specify):
________________________________
90
4. If your firm uses specialist software for measurement, please indicate the level
of use of the Specialist Software adopted by your firm.
Type of specialist software’s
Categories
Never
( 1 )
Seldom
( 2 )
Medium
( 3 )
Frequent
( 4 )
i. CATO CADmeasure
ii. Masterbill
iii. QsCad
iv. Buildsoft
v. RIPAC
vi. DimensionX
vii. Autodesk
viii. CostX
ix. Others (Please specify):
_____________________________
91
SECTION C:
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE CHOICE OF MEASUREMENT
METHODS
1. Please indicate, in priority order, the factors influencing the choice of the
measurement methods. (Please circle the appropriate rating scale on the right-
hand side)
Rating Scale:
1 – Not Important 3 – Important 5 – Most Important
2 – Slightly Important 4 – Very Important
i. The time taken to undertake the
measurement works.
1 2 3 4 5
ii. The cost involved in undertaking the
measurement works.
1 2 3 4 5
iii. The accuracy of the measured quantities.
1 2 3 4 5
iv. The flexibility in editing the measurement
works.
1 2 3 4 5
v. The conveniences in bulk checking the
measured quantities.
1 2 3 4 5
vi. The reduction of measurement workload.
1 2 3 4 5
vii. Others (Please specify):
_________________________________
1 2 3 4 5
92
SECTION D: PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED IN USING THE CHOSEN
MEASUREMENT METHODS
1. Please indicate your level of agreement with the problems encountered in using
the chosen measurement methods.
Problems
Strongly
Agree
( 5 )
Agree
( 4 )
Neither
Agree
Nor
Disagree
( 3 )
Disagree
( 2 )
Strongly
Disagree
( 1 )
1. Traditional
Measurement Method
- Time consuming
- Lack of accuracy in
measured quantities.
- Not flexible in editing the
measurement works
- Difficult to trace mistake
in the measurement.
- Too complicated to use.
- Too costly to use.
- Increase measurement
workload.
- Others (Please Specify):
__________________
__________________
2. Computer Spreadsheet
System
- Time consuming
- Lack of accuracy in
measurement quantities.
- Not flexible in editing the
measurement works
93
- Difficult to trace mistake
in the measurement.
- Too complicated to use.
- Too costly to use.
- Increase measurement
workload.
- Others (Please Specify):
__________________
__________________
3. Specialist Software
- Time consuming
- Lack of accuracy in
measurement quantities.
- Not flexible in editing the
measurement works
- Difficult to trace mistake
in the measurement.
- Too complicated to use.
- Too costly to use.
- Increase measurement
workload.
- Others (Please Specify):
__________________
__________________
Thank you very much for your time and cooperation.
