Software Application for Quantity Surveying

This subject is taught by two lecturers which are Puan Habizah Sheikh Ilmi and Miss Lim Tze Shwan. Software Application for Quantity Surveying subject helps us in learning to utilize the available softwares in the market and further improve our skills in measuring with better accuracy and speed when carrying out works. For this particular module, we are being introduced with two of the most conventional softwares in Cost X and Global Estimating. These two softwares are widely used by Quantity Surveyors all around the world in carrying out measurement and preparing bills of quantities for tendering. In the case of Global Estimating software, we are able to learn ways in preparing and documenting bills of quantities, price list and rates, and cost plans with the guidance from Puan Habizah. For Cost X on the other hand, Miss Lim has guide us in learning and understanding the advantages of this software whereby it is able to use jpeg or Cad drawings to quantify the works into carrying out measurement of building elements. We were given two assignments in this subject. For the first assignment, we were assigned to form a group of 5 and were required to make a report on different kind of softwares available in the market, which is used in the Quantity Surveying industry. We had to find informations on what kind of softwares that are available in the market and further explain the uses of these softwares and also compare each and every one of the chosen softwares. For the conclusion, we had to decide on which software is the most prolific and most efficient among the chosen softwares. For the second assignment, we were required to prepare Bill of quantities, including the breakdown of the rates by using Global Estimating. We were asked to find and allocate the material and labour cost from suppliers or via the internet, in order to derive the total amount to be put in the BQ. The element to be measured is obtained from our Measurement 4 subject whereby it is linked to its assignment. In my case, I have chosen to calculate the staircase finishes. Last but not least, we had to take a final test for this subject whereby our knowledge and ability in the two softwares are being tested. We were asked to calculate the quantities via these two softwares. We had to notify all the breakdown for the elements, with the material and labour costs included. 

Learning Outcome:

This module provides us with the basic knowledge on preparing BQ, building up rates, and pricebooks by using the two said softwares. Personally, I think this subject is really interesting and I have a strong believe that one day it would be very useful for me in carrying out real work. I believe this software brings a lot of benefits as it is much easier to use comparing to manual hand written work. Furthermore, using this softwares can cost us a lot more time. It gives Quantity Surveyors another dynamic in a way which work is carried out in a direct collection of quantities and measurements for costs estimations.