How Technology is Changing Quantity Surveying

29th September, 2023

The field of quantity surveying has undergone some transformation in recent years, with the introduction of digital tools and technologies that have revolutionized the way professionals in the industry conduct work. From streamlining workflows to improving accuracy and enabling more efficient communication, technology is changing the entire landscape of quantity surveying.

One of the most significant ways in which technology is transforming the field of quantity surveying is through the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM). BIM is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building, which can be shared and accessed by all stakeholders involved in the construction process. The BIM model provides detailed information about every aspect of the building, allowing quantity surveyors to accurately estimate costs and quantities of materials, as well as plan and manage construction schedules.

BIM can also enable more efficient procurement and tendering processes. Providing detailed information about the building and its components, quantity surveyors can use BIM to assess the quality and specifications of products and materials, make accurate quantity take-offs, and provide detailed cost estimates for projects. This allows contractors and suppliers to submit more accurate bids for work, reducing the risk of costly overruns.

Another way in which technology is changing the field of quantity surveying is through the use of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) tools. These technologies create immersive and interactive experiences, allowing designers, contractors, and clients to visualize and experience building designs in a realistic and tangible way. VR and AR tools can be particularly useful in the early stages of a project when designs are still in the conceptual phase. Quantity surveyors can use these technologies to create virtual walkthroughs of a building, allowing clients to experience the space and make changes before construction begins. This can reduce the risk of costly changes and delays later in the construction process.

The rise of cloud computing and mobile technologies has also had a significant impact on the field of quantity surveying. Cloud-based project management tools and software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions have made it easier to collaborate and share data with stakeholders across different locations and time zones. This has led to more efficient workflows, reduced costs, and improved communication.

Mobile technologies, such as smartphones and tablets, have also transformed the way that quantity surveyors work. With mobile devices, quantity surveyors can access project data and documents from anywhere, at any time. This enables a much quicker and adaptable response to project changes and requests for information, increasing productivity and reducing the risk of delays.

In addition to BIM, VR/AR, cloud computing, and mobile technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are also beginning to play a more significant role in the field of quantity surveying. These technologies can be used to automate repetitive tasks, such as data entry and analysis, freeing up time for quantity surveyors to focus on more complex tasks.

AI and machine learning can also be used to analyse data from previous projects to spot trends and patterns, helping quantity surveyors to make more accurate cost and time estimates for future projects. This can increase project efficiency and reduce the risk of costly errors.

Overall, technology is transforming the field of quantity surveying in a multitude of ways. From BIM and VR/AR to cloud computing, mobile technologies, AI, and machine learning, digital tools and technologies are enabling quantity surveyors to work more efficiently, accurately, and collaboratively than ever before. As technology continues to advance, the potential for further innovation in the field of quantity surveying is significant, offering opportunities for increased productivity, cost savings, and improved quality of work.