Software Report

1.
School of Architecture, Building & Design (SABD)
Bachelor of Quantity Surveying (Honours)
Software Application for Quantity Surveying
(CSC60603)
Lecturer : Sr. Yeap Soon Kiat
Submission Date : 6/10/2017 (Friday)
NAME STUDENT ID
DARREN TAN QUAN WEN 0322662
LOH MUN TONG 0323680
NG SHENG ZHE 0323830
RANEE LEOW KAI YEN 0328173
SATESHRAJ A/L P.DEVARAJ 0321419
SOO YON LI 0322821
TAM ZHAO WEI 0322587

2. Content
No. Content Page
1 Introduction 3
2 Part A : Comparison of the Functions and Limitation of BIM QS computer software
2.1 AutoDesk Navisworks
2.1.1 Functions
2.1.2 Limitations
2.2 CostX
2.2.1 Functions
2.2.2 Limitations
2.3 Glodon
2.3.1 Functions
2.3.2 Limitations
2.4 Buildsoft
2.4.1 Functions
2.4.2 Limitations
2.5 Summary Table & Recommendation
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3 Part B : Comparison of the Benefits and Constraints of Building Information
Modelling (BIM), CAD Measurement and Manual Measurement at different stages
3.1 Preparation / Briefing Stage
3.1.1 Building Information Modelling (BIM)
3.1.2 CAD Measurement
3.1.3 Manual Measurement
3.2 Design Stage
3.2.1 Building Information Modelling (BIM)
3.2.2 CAD Measurement
3.2.3 Manual Measurement
3.3 Pre-Construction Stage
3.3.1 Building Information Modelling (BIM)
3.3.2 CAD Measurement
3.3.3 Manual Measurement
3.4 Construction Stage
3.4.1 Building Information Modelling (BIM)
3.4.2 CAD Measurement
3.4.3 Manual Measurement
3.5 Post-Construction Stage
3.5.1 Building Information Modelling (BIM)
3.5.2 CAD Measurement
3.5.3 Manual Measurement
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3. 1. Introduction
In this era of technology, Building Information Modelling (BIM) has taken the construction industry
by storm. It has become a standard practice in the construction field. Manual take-off is no longer practical in
this industry. Professionals involved in construction projects are concern with the time and cost they are
spending therefore BIM softwares are highly implemented. BIM softwares have full coverage on all
construction stages from planning to design phases. Traditional building design was largely reliant upon 2D
drawings whereas BIM extends beyond 3D. Hence, giving a better design visualization.
In this report, four BIM softwares are selected for comparison purposes in terms of functions and
limitations. They are : AutoDesk Navisworks, CostX, Glodon and Buildsoft. Besides that, the comparison of
the benefits and constraints of Building Information Modelling (BIM), CAD Measurement and Manual
Measurement at different construction stages are also included in this report for further readings.
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4. 2.1 AutoDesk Navisworkss
The AutoDesk Navisworkss is a project review software for Architecture, Engineering and Construction
(AEC) professionals. It allows the professionals to holistically review integrated models and data with
stakeholders to better control project outcomes. It also enables professionals to calculate building quantities
from 2D and 3D architectural models. Only at the click of a button, quantities can be automatically generated
just like how most modern electronic take-off softwares do. This software is built to support BIM data as
well as other types of applications such as CAD and AutoCAD. Besides taking off building quantities, it can
also fulfil the purpose of costing and estimating by linking the software to costing systems like US Cost or
Innovaya.
The AutoDesk Navisworks which comprises of richer quantifying capabilities had replaced the AutoDesk
Quantity Takeoff in 2013. This software can integrate with Revit and other 3D modelling software. Another
significant feature of this software is its capability to take-off 3D BIM.
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5. 2.1.1 Functions
Gain more control over construction projects
Greater coordination, construction simulation, and whole-project analysis for integrated project review can
be achieved through the AutoDesk Navisworks.
(1) Coordination
- BIM Coordination with AutoCad [Manage & Simulate]
Conflicts across disciplines with AutoCad 2016 and BIM 360 Glue can be minimise. Furthermore,
professionals can access the most recent coordinated BIM 360 project models within AutoCad 2016.
- BIM 360 Glue Integration [Manage & Simulate]
In the latest version of BIM 360 Glue Desktop, it now retains visibility overrides which means that
hidden items and transparencies are maintained in saved views and markups after the merge or update
of the model.
(2) Model Review
- Object animation and model simulation [Manage & Simulate]
Objects and viewpoints can be linked to the construction schedules using the AutoDesk Navisworks.
Plus, the quality of simulations can be enhanced as well. To achieve better presentation of information,
animation scenes can be played as the tasks are simulated.
- Whole-team project review [Manage & Simulate]
Using the AutoDesk Navisworks, files originated from a variety of CAD applications can be accessed
easily. The files can even be combined together to create a single AutoDesk Navisworks file with a
whole-project view of the model. Through this, the geometry and data created by multi-disciplinary
teams can be brought together and allows the user to explore and review complex models in real-time.
(3) Quantification
- Integrated 2D quantification (2D sheet takeoff) [Manage & Simulate]
The measurement of lines, areas and counts on a 2D sheet is made possible using the 2D Take-off.
Markup geometry and accurate calculations can be done rather than carrying out manual calculations
on paper sheets. Then, the geometry can be taken off automatically to sit alongside the 3D takeoffs in
the Quantification workbook.
- 3D quantification (integrated model takeoff) [Manage & Simulate]
The key workspace for using this software is the Quantification workbook. From here, one can
perform a model take-off (automatic) or a virtual take-off (manual). The view in the Quantification
workbook can be changed to either Item view or Resource View.
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6. 2.1.2 Limitations
(1) Lack in smooth operation in 3D Navigation
Navigating in 3D of the AutoDesk Navisworks isn’t impossible but it’s operation is slightly below
Sketchup, InfraWorks, Lumion but slightly better than Civil 3D and Microstation.
(2) Required good rendering skills to achieve quality results
One need to really acquire the skill of operating the software and be good at rendering engines in order
to produce good results unlike softwares such as InfraWorks and Lumion.
(3) Limited rendering styles
The rendering styles for the AutoDesk Navisworks is very limited. For instance, the software is lack of
artistic rendering styles such as ‘sketchy’ rendering style. As a result, the outcome of the project cannot
be as attractive and creative as compared to the other softwares.
(4) Lack in built-in-sound options
Options for the built-in-sound for the AutoDesk Navisworks is not available.
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7. 2.2. CostX
Exactal was established in October 2003 to develop estimating software for the construction industry and,
more specifically, to integrate the estimating process with CAD drawing files. Over the years Exactal have
come up with various product and the resulting product was called CostX®. The unique combination of
these two elements has also been trademarked by Exactal as the Cost Geometry of the building.
CostX is now in widespread use amongst quantity surveying, construction, development, subcontracting and
estimating firms, both large and small, around the world. From its first release in July 2004, CostX sales have
grown exponentially and it is now sold and supported in over 70 countries including the UK, Ireland,
Australia, USA, UAE, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand and across Africa.
There are eight products of CostX Construction Estimating Software in market which are CostX, CostX 2D,
CostX Take-off, CostX Take-off 2D, CostX XL, CostX Live, CostX Viewer and CostX Education.
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8. 2.2.1 Functions
The Power of CAD
Minimize data input errors and get accurate measurements by locking onto the precision of CAD drawings.
CostX extracts data from CAD drawings allowing you to work with the data without changing the original
drawing or compromising the design integrity.
Software that Learns
Automatically build specialised cost libraries from real projects to enhance the accuracy of future estimating.
Faster and Smarter Turnaround
Significantly reduce tendering times and costs as CostX generates cost plans in minutes with smart
technology that understands your drawings, design creep, and quantity surveying practices. Improve
productivity as CAD linked cost plans continually assess creep and affordability in parallel with design
modifications, while eliminating time consuming manual measurement and digitizer take offs.
2.2.2 Limitations
1) Software Training and Software Cost
The use of CostX requires significant training and the cost of the software program are relatively high. The
costs is associated with purchasing, licensing and training. A contractor may need to upgrade its computer
system to effectively use the CostX software.
2) More Work Upfront
CostX requires more effort at the outset of a project. When Costx is used, it is insufficient for a contractor to
simply submit plans for its own work and then begin construction. Not all drawing can be read properly by
CostX. Therefore, causing lots of errors as well as the needs to recheck with the contractor about the design.
3) Measurement limitations
There are some restrictions while doing measurement on Cost X. For instance, the vertical position of
windows cannot be adjusted to its accurate position, hence the 3D model live- linked with the measurement
information can only illustrate the position of windows on the ground. Another example is the limitation in
measuring rebar. Bents for BRC and concrete cover is hardly detected and measured in the drawing. To
diminish the problem, exceeding length on bents and extra area of BRC is measured, which is certainly
inaccurate.
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9. 2.3 Glodon
Cubicost is formed by Glodon where it applies BIM (Building Information Model) as the core technology on
the entire lifecycle of construction projects. Hence, providing a unified cost solution for clients in this
industry. Cubicost has taken the construction industry by storm globally by launching a series of software
products inclusive of Cubicost Takeoff for Architecture and Structure (TAS), Cubicost Takeoff for Rebar
(TRB), Cubicost Takeoff for Mechanical and Electrical (TME), Cubicost TBQ and Cubicost Manager and
MagiCAD. The launch of these products aims to resolve any inconvenience faced at different stages of
construction process from design stage to contracting stage and right up to construction stage. However, we
will only be focusing on Cubicost TAS, Cubicost TRB and Cubicost TME and Cubicost TBQ.
1. Cubicost TAS
TAS is BIM-based quantity takeoff software for architecture and structure. It has successfully passed the
building SMART certification. Able to import 3D model from TRB to calculate quantities.
2. Cubicost TRB
TRB is BIM-based quantity takeoff software for rebar. It has interchangeable calculation mode between
Tendering Mode and Prefabrication Mode to address different requirements.
3. Cubicost TME
TME is BIM-based quantity takeoff software for MEP. It is able to import from/ export to Microsoft Excel
for information exchange.
4. Cubicost TBQ
TBQ is an innovative, efficient and easy-to-use cost estimating software. It has automatic M&E system
identification features which produces 3D model for building services.
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10. 2.3.1 Functions
1. BIM-based measurement software with built in calculation rules
BIM model is efficiently built by identifying DWG, JPG, PDF or by tracking 2D drawings. Measurement
work can be done by modelling instead of excel or manually. It has a build-in localized calculation rules as
requires.
2. Professional, accurate and efficient.
3D models can be built rapidly based on drawings imported. Elements are linked automatically for deduction
and anchorage calculation integrally. Calculation settings can be customised to adopt users’ requirement.
Reverse checking is available to analyse quantity difference hence enable the location of entity from report
for checking quantity, making it easy to check and modify quantities.
3. Seamless information flow
Model-sharing can be done between TAS and TRB for collaboration work as structure measurement always
come with rebar. It is convenient in variation with synchronisation between models and quantities.
2.3.2 Limitations
1. High cost
Installation of Cubicost is highly-priced at the present market. Therefore, only big QS firms are able to
afford. Smaller QS firms are incapable of affording such expensive software to be installed in their
computers. Hence, they prefer doing manual take off or using more common softwares such as CostX and
Vico since they are more affordable.
2. Lack of knowledge
Cubicost is a relatively new BIM-based product for taking off in the construction field. The availability of
this software is still very limited. Users that are more familiar with other early established software find it
difficult to adapt in such newly-introduced software. The older generations are usually found sticking to their
traditional taking off methods. Companies whom have invested in such software will have to send their
employees on Cubicost software training. It takes a long time to perfect the usage of this software.
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11. 2.4 Buildsoft
Buildsoft Global Estimating is the software program for commercial use in the building and construction
industry. It produces Bills of Quantities or detailed Estimates and Cost Plans. Its primary use is by
Commercial building contractors and Quantity surveyors. This program is conceived and designed in
Australia, the software is successful right around the world and has been constantly improved and upgraded,
often incorporating customer requests and suggestion.
Information (Data) you enter into the program can be sorted or analysed using powerful grouping columns.
The estimates can be summarized to produce totals by area, block, stage, cost centre, accounting group, or
any user-defined set of codes.
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12. 2.4.1 Functions
(1) Subbies Comparison
This function is an “add-on” module for global estimating that allows the prime contractor to refine the rates
and subcontractor options. The original estimates may be used in its original form or sorted into groupings
that are more suitable portions of the estimate can then be sent out to potential subcontractors, giving all the
necessary references and quantities. Management can review the Comparison software presents a clear
analysis that can be combined with the estimating team skills and the experience to speed up job-winning
submissions that will produce maximum profitability.
(2) Buildsoft Take-off system (BTOS)
Import a digital image format such as PDF, DXF and DWG into your project. Then simply trace over an
image area with your mouse, and you can take off lineal metres, areas, volumes and vertical area results with
just a few clicks of your digitiser or mouse. Then enter any deductions and the BTOS system will
automatically calculate the quantities and transfer the information into your estimating program. BTOS is
available as an "add-on" module for Global Estimating and Offsider Estimating. A staff with extensive
construction and computer knowledge is there to back you up so that you get the most out of all Buildsoft
products.
(3) Accounting Features
This allows the QS to do both works at the same time and most importantly at the same software. The
features are account payable, account receivable, fixed assets, general ledger, inventory management,
materials management, pay roll processing, purchase order and lastly the time and materials billing. This is a
huge plus point for this software because it makes a QS work more convenient and efficient.
2.4.2 Limitations
(1) Failure to Retrieve Deleted Files
The top disadvantages of this software is when a data is deleted it is forever deleted. The job file that is
created in Buildsoft will be permanently deleted when we do the amendment on the existing data. This mean
the amendment that had been done cannot be called back. So the user must carefully do the amendment.
(2) Lack of Spell-Checking Function
The typing error is a problem in Buildsoft. The software has not created the function to check or identify the
typing errors like number or figure that already typed in. Hence, manual checking of the error has to be done.
As a result, the BQ preparation will need extra time to key-in the figure into the computer to avoid the
mistakes or errors.
(3) Prone to Virus Attack
The virus attack on this software is common due to connectivity of internet. The user shave have licensed
antivirus software so that the virus definition can be updated daily. The software does detect the virus attack
but the problem arises when there is no anti-virus is installed. Then, the data will get erased and this will get
the user in big trouble.
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13. 2.5 Summary Table & Recommendation
Comparing the four BIM softwares : AutoDesk Navisworks, CostX, Glodon and Buildsoft, we arrived at a
conclusion that the best software among this four is the CostX. This is because it has multiple functions that
makes it stands out the most.
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AutoDesk
Navisworks
Cost X Glodon Buildsoft
2D Take-off
3D Take-off
Support Various Softwares
Accounting Feature
Support Various File Types
Costing & Estimating
Automatic Generation of
Cost Library
BIM 360 Glue Integration
Clash Detection and
Interference Checking
Object Animation and Model
Simulation
On Screen Take-off
Free Student License
Various Calculation Rules
Auto-Revisioning
Subcontractor Comparison
Softwares
Features

14. PREPARATION / BRIEFING STAGE
BIM
Benefits
1. Better communication
Planners can visually communicate the planned construction process to all project stakeholders. The 4D
model captures both the temporal and spatial aspects of a schedule and it is able to communicate this
schedule more effectively than a traditional Gantt chart.
2. Site logistics
Planners can manage lay down areas, access to and within the site, location of large equipment, trailers, and
so forth.
3. Trade coordination
Planners can coordinate the expected time and space flow of trades on the site as well as the coordination of
work in small spaces.
Constraints
1.High Training Costs and Learning Curve
Implementing new technologies such as BIM technologies is costly in terms of training and changing work
processes and workflows. The investment in software and hardware is typically exceeded by the training
costs and initial productivity losses. Most service providers will not make such an investment unless they
gain long term benefit to their own organization.
2. Everyone must be on board to make the BIM effort worthwhile
It is difficult to ensure that all project participants have the willingness to participate in the creation or use of
the building information model. It is a challenge recreating information from organizations not participating
in the modelling effort.
CAD
Benefits
1. Increase Productivity
In order to manage time and using time wisely, CAD has reduced the effort levels needed to produce the first
3 stages of algorithm. As compared to hand drawn designs, CAD has become much more efficient in terms
of time spent in different situations.
2. Accuracy and Minimizing Errors
CAD is a software that can definitely produce outcomes that are much reliable compared to human
designers. It has kept the possibility of making errors in dimensioning and measurement to the minimum
level. By that, it reduces time wastage for the errors made.
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15. 3. Improves the quality of the design
CAD helps the designers to consider large number of investigations. It gives the designers time to visualize
the designs and make any changes to update thoroughly. Well, a better design helps to carry out faster
manufactures and reduce as much wastage as possible.
Constraints
1. Initial cost of the software may be high
There are lots of free software that can be used but CAD, excessive high cost, has become one of the most
famous software use in the construction industry. Once in a while, the software may need to be updated as
this will increase the cost to the organizations.
2. Disrupted work due to computer malfunctions
It is unfortunate to say nothing is perfect. If unlucky enough, break downs of computer while work is
progressing and not having a backup of it may cause lots of burden to the organizations. More time will be
spent, lower efficiency of the designers.
MANUAL
Benefits
1. No specific training required
Manual measurement does not require to undergo specific training programs unlike BIM and CAD. For BIM
and CAD, users are required to undergo training to master the usage of the software.
2. Cost saving
Manual measurement saves cost compared to BIM and CAD measurement as the software required
substantial investment.
Constraints
1. Time consuming for decision making
Manual measurement is more time consuming in keeping the date and information of the project up to date
as compared to BIM and CAD measurement which make decision making slower.
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16. DESIGN STAGE
BIM
Benefits
1. Accurate visualization of a design
BIM represents a major advancement in information modeling by producing realistic three-dimensional
views and visualization walkthroughs for design clarity. Design at any stage can be visualized and it will be
dimensionally consistent in every view.
2. Generation of Consistent 2D drawings at any design stage
Accurate and consistent drawings can be extracted from any set of objects or specific view of the project.
This will significantly reduce the amount of time and number of errors associated with generating
construction drawings for all design disciplines. Design modifications can be applied when changes to the
design are required.
3. Improvement of energy efficiency and sustainability
BIM supports building performance analysis of energy use in the earliest design phase and guiding the
decision-making process regarding mechanical systems and building materials. The capability to link the
building model to various types of analysis tools provides many opportunities to improve building quality.
Constraints
1. Experts required
BIM is a new software in the market therefore there are limited numbers of experts such as designers
working in the field. An additional investment in training and education should be included in the budget.
2. High software cost
BIM software requires a substantial investment in new technology. The investment is only worthwhile when
the software is used to its full capacity and long term.
CAD
Benefits
1. Model can be viewed from different angles
If a hand drawn design is given to the client, client might not know what is it like from different perspective
of the building. A hand drawn design takes more time as there are lots perspective that are needed to be
displayed to clients. But with CAD software, it shows every detail of the different viewpoint of the building
clearly to clients.
2. Drafts can be amended easily
Before the designs get approved by the client, drafts of the building must be shown. By using the CAD
software, amendments of the design can be made easily and reduce the amount of time spent in drawing the
new designs.
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17. 3. More word loads
With the CAD software, QS firms are able to withstand and take up more work load as opposed to manual
estimation. It can help to reduce the time taken, therefore higher profitability.
Constraints
1. High initial cost of the computer systems
Before using the CAD software, computer systems must be set up properly. Some new companies do not
have the capital to afford it as they are starting their capital from zero.
2. Amendments must be made manually
It is impossible that designs are made only once and can be constructed straight. During the design phase,
several times of changes will be made due to different circumstances like client’s request and so on. After the
changes, quantities of the items and materials must be modified in the BQ, which must be done in papers.
MANUAL
Benefits
1. Client’s satisfaction
Changes can be made manually on the spot when there is variation on the design and provide a clearer view
and understanding for the client immediately.
Constraints
1. Human error
However, variations may occur and the scale usage may not be accurate enough as compared to CAD
measurement due to human error such as parallax error.
2. Time consuming
When variation occur, drawing manually consumes a lot of time as there are several drawings needed to be
produce in a project including site plan, floor plan, details drawings and elevation drawings.
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18. PRE-CONSTRUCTION STAGE
BIM
Benefits
1. Increased building performance and quality
Developing a schematic model prior to generating a detailed building model allows for a more careful
evaluation of the proposed scheme to determine whether it meets the building’s functional and sustainable
requirements. Besides, early evaluation of design alternatives using analysis tools increases the overall
quality of the building.
2. Cost estimation
Provide fast, effective and efficient quantity take-off and cost estimation. Besides, BIM produces reliable and
accurate quantities as well as competitive cost estimates. Auto computation of calculations also reduces
human errors.
3. Reduce of information errors
BIM can be used by the project team from the beginning of the design to improve their understanding of
project requirements and to extract cost estimates as the design is developed. This allows design and cost to
be better understood and avoid paper exchange and its associated delays.
Constraints
1. Legal barriers
Contractual and legal changes are required on several fronts to facilitate the use of BIM and more
collaborative project teams. Public institutions are also governed by laws that take considerable time to
change.
CAD
Benefits
1. Accuracy of construction drawings and numbers
If quantities were to be calculated by humans, there is a high possibility of errors in terms of calculations.
But, computer systems wouldn’t make mistakes if it is set properly at first. Not only that, by having accurate
specifications, it leads to quick accomplishment of actual construction.
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19. 2. Ease of generations of drafting processes
When CAD software is used during pre-construction stage, they can produce CAD drawings, bill of
materials, special reports and specifications at a faster pace.
3. Management wise
Sometimes, people are not as effective as the software. CAD software helps to manage data of the projects
effectively. If datas are all written in papers, it might be hard for the professions to look back and find out the
specific data they need.
Constraints
1. A small error can lead to huge problems
The specifications, measurements and other important details of the project must be checked thoroughly to
avoid any mistakes that can lead to large amount of money spent. For instance, if the measurement has lack
of a number in it, the whole building will be affected.
2. Risk of getting duplicated work
It is hard to say that some professions just duplicate the work that was supposed to be redesigned due to the
quality of being idleness.
MANUAL
Benefits
1. Lower risk of loss of information
Manual measurement will not face obstruction such as power failure or clashes of software as is it based on
paper works
Constraints
1. Time consuming
It is relatively more time consuming by incorporating manual measurement in complex or mass projects
which involved numerous drawings as compared to the usage of BIM and CAD software.
2. Lower accuracy of measurement
Due to the mass drawings and information, taker off may be confused with the information received and has
a higher tendency of human error which result in lower accuracy of measurement.
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20. CONSTRUCTION STAGE
BIM
Benefits
1. Better coordinate schedules
BIM empowers general contractors to better coordinate schedules with various subcontractors and suppliers,
allowing for just-in-time delivery. This enhanced coordination is key for large urban projects where staging
areas are limited.
2. Discovery of design errors and omissions before construction
Due to virtual 3D building model is the source for all 2D and 3D drawings, design errors caused by
inconsistent 2D drawings are eliminated. Conflicts and constructability problems will be identified before
they are detected in the field.
3. Quick reaction to design changes
The design will be updated automatically when suggested design change is entered into the building model.
Some updates will be made automatically based on the established parametric rules.
Constraints
1. Incompatibility with partners
BIM is not yet universally used among construction professionals. There may be possibility that one of your
partners or subcontractors may not use BIM and may not be able to use your models. This will cause them to
have misunderstanding when using your models.
2. Be extra cautious
When using BIM, we have to be more careful as a slight mistake made when inserting the design changes
could result in a different outcome.
CAD
Benefits
1. Electronic drawings can be clearly understood
CAD software has helped the construction professions to present a clearer view of the building, by that it can
reduce the time of wondering about the specific measurements or quotations.
2. Standardized layout
Using one computer aided design tool for your engineering or architectural firm can standardize the way
layouts are executed, for and added touch of uniformly that translates to a more professional appeal to
clients. This can also make filing and archiving more efficient to do, to aid searching drawings later. Not
only that, if the construction methods used is not traditional method, where the design and construction stage
is concurrent, it can help a lot in the construction stage.
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21. Constraints
1. Measurements are restricted
There are certain measurements that cannot be achieved like 2D drawings are measured for the unit of
estimation that require 2D outlines only, while for 3D drawings, extra endeavours are required to ascertain
estimation like volume.
MANUAL
Benefits
1. Cost effective
Manual measurement is the most cost effective method as everything is done manually by hand and the only
cost involves is the printing of drawings and the wages of the worker.
2. Reduce cost
It does not require additional investment in training and education like BIM and CAD measurement.
Constraints
1. Visual and dimensional restriction
Manual measurement does not provide 2D, 3D, 4D and 5D visualisation of cost elements and design as
compared to BIM and CAD software.
2. Rework
During the construction stage, variations may occur and results in reworking on the quantity of the
measurement which consumes time.
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22. POST CONSTRUCTION STAGE
BIM
Benefits
1. Improved commissioning and handover of facility information
The general contractor and MEP contractors collect information about installed materials and maintenance
information for the systems in the building during construction process.
2. Better management and operation of facilities
Building model provides a source of information such as graphics and specification for all systems used in a
building. This information can be used to check that all systems work properly after the building is
completed.
3. Integration with facility operation and management systems
Building model that has been updated with all changes made during construction provides an accurate source
of information about the as-built spaces and systems and provides a useful starting point for managing and
operating the building.
Constraints
1. Maintenance team
Maintenance team is often hired after the construction done. The challenges are that not all maintenance
team has experience in using BIM software. Besides, training cost is required if the organizations decide to
train the maintenance team to use BIM.
CAD
Benefits
1. Helps to manage electronic documents
Data of the projects can be organized in an appropriate way and by that it also helps the project team to
fasten the process of construction. Not only that, at the end of the construction, CAD can help to faster the
process of the final account.
Constraints
1. Professionals needed in order to operate CAD
There are lots of knowledge that needs to be picked up in order to properly use it. It might cost a lot to learn
the programme.
MANUAL
Benefits
1. Easier accessibility
The operation and maintenance manual is easier to access as compared to BIM and CAD software which
requires technical expertise.
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23. Constraints
1. Time consuming for tracking and monitoring
An amount of time is required for checking and referring the resources of the project in manual
measurement.
2. Limited information
Manual measurement does not provide other vital information such as real-time data, maintenance planning
and space planning.
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