SOFTWARE APPLICATION ASSIGNMENT

Daphne Tan Li Wen 0329055

Foo Van Jean 0330017
Karen Lim Shi Chee 0329431
Lau Wan Yee 0328947
Lim Yin Ru 0329931
Loh Wei Ting 0328314

Lecturer : Sr. Yeap Soon Kiat

 An Australian company that develops and markets computer software
for the building and construction industry.

It’s specialised in estimating softwares designed to help ;-

Builders Estimators Contractor and subcontractors Tradespeople

 Among the variety of products developed by Buildsoft:

Cubit MudShark Global Bartender

-Estimate smarter and take off -Let Mudshark do the heavy -Shaping the way you estimate. -Subcontractor Comparison
faster lifting.

All of the products are designed for the construction industry.

These products are generally used for residential, commercial and the infrastructure purposes.
 Function

Smooth integration 3D perspective

This software can display both the quantities from
drawing and data in estimates to check without
needing to switch window.
Users can achieve greater control and accuracy as well
as save time.
User can see elements of takeoff from any angle in 3D,
and use this as a cross-referencing tool to make sure
you don’t miss taking off any items, or to check all
your openings.
Cubit allows the user to trace directly over the
imported plans which can be in PDF, CAD (DWG, DXF),
BIM (DWFx) or image file form
 Function
flexibility and control over your estimates
The estimate sheet is very flexible and easy to adjust.
Users are able to link information from any cell, range
of cells or rows into the estimate.
User can even reference another job or price list.
There's so many ways you can use referencing to your
advantage.
3D Modeling
Templates are also useful to compile the company’s
common trades required in a project to save time in
future estimates.
Price list templates can be created to suit the needs of
the user by sorting the list either by state, region or
trades.
The software is able to automatically update the
existing estimate in accordance to the most recent
template price lists.
 Function

Ease of modification

Variations can be easily handled with Cubit as any new drawings can be overlaid onto the
existing plan with the quantities.

The difference between both the drawings will be highlighted by a different colour allowing all
revisions made to the previous drawing to be easily viewed.

Quantities can be edited directly on the plan.

Any updates will be automatically linked to the estimate.

 Limitation
Difficult to recover deleted data from Typing errors
history

Buildsoft does not offer the feature to recover
previous data after amendments have been made.
Hence, although the variation process is simple, it is
difficult to pull up previous versions for reference.
Typing errors Cubit does not identify typing
errors for figures which have been input
manually.
These errors can only be picked up manually

This is important when preparing variation orders or

final accounts as we would also require old
information include in the reports.
 Limitation

Virus Attack

The software can detect the virus attack and quarantined or killed the virus and also protect
the computer and system.

The problem is when no anti-virus was installed, the virus can attack the computer system
and also all the content of the computer.

If this happen, the data may be lost and may be cannot be covered by any means.
 Function
Key in data of materials & labour, load drawings.

Live link enabled for Rates Library.

Generally it allows building product and cost database, bid management.

Taking off quantities from the drawing plan.

Drag and drop measurement / rates into workbook to create Bill of Quantities.
 Function (Workbook)
Customized report & generating bill of quantities

• High quality of presentation of documents.

• Unlike Excel, Cost X does not hide large
numbers-text when printing.
• Filtering I & O automatically.
• Save time in keying in the item code.

Phraseologies in library

• Maintain standard phrase / model description in

hierarchical library.
• Assembled predefined phrases, codes and units.
 Function (Workbook)

Working simultaneously Colour coded features

• Allows multiple users to work on • a streamlined review process

the same estimate / BQ at once. • green = quote, blue = estimate,
purple = plug, and orange = other.
 Function
FEATURES OF 2D & 3D
• Ability to work with BIM, automatically extract quantities from the 3D model.

• User friendliness of interface as compared to other BIM compatible features.

• Good visibility for other users to review work.

Markups can be shared with construction team Easy overlay drawings and highlight changes.
 Function

Revision capabilities Ease of visualization

• Walk through of building

• Automatically detect quantifying revision and • Clearer section and part details
model changes.

• When the drawing changes, it links back to the

CAD and BIM data.

• As it ties data into workbooks.

• The quantities in workbook will be updated

instantly.
 Function

Subcontractor comparison

• The trades are compared through generating a

workbook with data of subcontractor details
stored.

• Whenever comparison is required, the details

are easily accessible.
 Limitation

Lack of detailing in models

• Not everything is modelled, architraves, glazing beads, gaskets, etc.

• For roof, the software still uses 2D details, there is no flashing shown.

• Largely depends on the source of model, either from a designer version without details or detailed
model from the fabricator or manufacturer (structural steel modeler contains number of bolts).
 Limitation

Difficult in terms used Less efficient in batch drawing

• Different way of defining or interpretation -

length, base length, etc. For instance, gross
area includes or excludes void.
• Required to understand the term used in
different application.
• Unable to handle drawings n batches
• Requires loading one by one when editing
drawing properties.
Cubicost Takeoff for Cubicost Takeoff
Architecture and for Rebar (TRB)
Structure (TAS)

Cubicost Takeoff for

Mechanical and
Electrical (TME) Cubicost TBQ
 Functions
Rapid modelling

1. editing of BIM models

2. supports the import and
exports of file formats to build
3D models efficiently.
3. operates to calculate the
quantities of architectural and
structural elements
4. It has various elements and
comprehensive features
embedded in the software.
 Functions
Automatic calculation

1. built-in localized calculation rules such

as SMM series
2. automatically deduct quantities among
elements to ensure accuracy of
calculation.
3. 3D models can be combined, identified,
resolved and generated automatically in
TAS.
 Functions
Automatic calculation

1. built-in localized calculation rules such

as SMM series
2. automatically deduct quantities among
elements to ensure accuracy of
calculation.
3. 3D models can be combined, identified,
resolved and generated automatically in
TAS.
 Functions
Automatic calculation

1. built-in localized calculation rules such

as SMM series
2. automatically deduct quantities among
elements to ensure accuracy of
calculation.
3. 3D models can be combined, identified,
resolved and generated automatically in
TAS.
 Functions
Automatic calculation

Calculation of finishes can be

easily done by attaching the
finishes elements to the room
elements and then placing the
room to the corresponding model.
 Functions
Convenient model sharing and transfer

1. Users are able to share data

between TAS, TRB and TBQ in
terms of models, quantities,
prices, etc to efficiently generate
tender documents.
2. Cubicost TBQ can be linked with
TAS and TRB file to enable
automatic updates in quantities
measured.

This encourages team collaboration in a

project especially in cases where members
are measuring different elements on the
same project.
 Functions
Error checking

1. allows quantities to be viewed

in total or by element, floor.
2. allows a specific quantity in
the report to be located to the
corresponding element in 3D
model via the Reversely Check
feature.

This allows for quick checks to

determine if there are any
outstanding items to takeoff.
 Functions
Ease of modification

1. provides a variation
order module specially
developed to handle the
management of variation
orders.
2. allows direct
modification of specific
elements to
accommodate variations
throu model information
and re-performing
calculations for certain
elements.
 Functions
Ease of modification

1. provides a variation
order module specially
developed to handle the
management of variation
orders.
2. allows direct
modification of specific
elements to
accommodate variations
- by only adjusting model
information and re-
performing calculations
for certain elements.
 Limitations
Performance issues Cubicost requires a computer hardware with high
performance as it uses a lot of the computer’s RAM (Random
Access Memory) to run the software especially if it is required
to open a large file.

Without it, the performance of the software would ultimately

slow down which causes inefficiency in taking off quantities.

Hence, users with old computer hardwares are obliged to

upgrade their computers with additional RAM to work with
the amount of information in the file.
 Limitations
Learning curve

Cubicost softwares are embedded with numerous functions

which, unfortunately, demands users to devote time and
money to familiarise themselves as well as to master these
functions.

It has a relatively complicated user interface which makes it

time-consuming to pick up and become proficient especially
without professional advise and training.
Examples
 Function

Material Takeoff Customisable schedules

Revit allows users to find out the quantities and cost Users can determine exactly which information is
of the materials. required to be in the schedule.

The material takeoff function performs the taking off The schedule generated can be sorted by material,
process by generating the quantity of each thereby, creating a total for the cost which can then
component made with different materials. be exported to Microsoft Excel.

Schedule Of Material Elements And Material Cost For Material

Takeoff
 Function

Create calculated fields from the model 3D Modeling

Revit allows users to calculate quantities required for Enables designers and drafters to easily identify the
the preparation of the bills of quantities. clashes and areas of congestion, and resolve them
For example: if the number of stiffeners is required early in the process.

The software would generate and include calculated It results in error-free and high quality construction
value into the schedule. documentations.
 Function

Collaborative functions Multi-Talented

Unlike AutoCAD, Revit allows all project data to be The program can be used to facilitate
stored in a single project file, permitting -design
multiple users to work on the same project file and -construction
merge their changes with every save. -procurement
-pricing
-life safety
All changes in Revit are coordinated across the entire -ongoing maintenance
project, so a change in one place is a simultaneous -facility management
change in all views.
 Limitation

Difficulty in doing variations Large memory required

As this software is essentially a design software The software requires a large memory to fully install
developed for architects and engineers, it does not it into computer.
provide auto-revisioning functions.

In the event the design is changed, the user would The software is about 5GB which is quite large for a
have to re-generate all the quantities from design software.
scratch.
Comparative analysis of Manual
Measurement, CAD
Measurement and BIM
 Preparation/Briefing Stage
Benefits
Manual Measurement
No yearly subscriptions
• No software costs or operator training
are required
• It is the cheapest way to take
measurement (printing cost)
No training required
• Firms that operate with manual
measurement do not require expensive/
special training for staff to operate the
software.
CAD Measurement
Data storing and accessibility
• No large cabinets needed to store rolls
of drafting papers and blueprint as
everything including the measurements
can be created and saved in soft copy
formats. (USB drive, server or cloud)
• can be accessed from anywhere with
internet connection.
Template and database creation
• Users can create various CAD templates
with basic details that can be reused
anytime.
• Help to save time by providing basic
information
• Drawings and measurement that
created manually can only be stored
locally
BIM
Ultimate collaboration
• BIM’s cloud functionality ensures a
smoother start off when working
collaboratively
• During briefing, all parties share the
same design, cost and scheduling
information at the same time, which will
be updated regularly.
Communication
• Increase communication and
understanding with potential
stakeholders as it allows sharing and
updating information in real time.
• Digital mock-ups can be created to give
potential stakeholders a clear picture of
a building’s appearance
 Preparation/Briefing Stage
Benefits

BIM

Faster decision making process

• Easier and faster to make decision as

team members are able to visualize the
project with most updated information
 Preparation/Briefing Stage
Constraints
Manual Measurement
Lack of security
• Paper document for manual
measurement can be less secured than
electronic system
• This is because misplaced documents
can easily be placed in the wrong hands
• Meaning there is risk of exposing private
and confidential material.
CAD Measurement
Higher start-up cost
• More expenses required to invest in
computer hardware for maximum
performance
• If a company wants to invest in CAD
software throughout the company, it
could end up with high cost in computer
upgrades.
Time and cost of training staff
• Training for operating the CAD software
may require several days to weeks
• Some courses may require extra fees
BIM
Training and software cost
• A large initial investment is required for
updating software, hardware and the
training of staff.
• Need time to adapt implementation of
new technologies in term of changing in
workflow and work process
Incompatibility with partners
• BIM has yet to be universally used
among construction professionals.
• Models can’t be shared across all
consultants if some have not adopted
BIM application

Benefits
Manual Measurement
Avoid deviations between measured
quantities and actual value
• A beginner would not understand how
quantities are being measured in the
software.
• Exp: deduction of openings for finishes.
If small values accumulates during
design stage, tender quantities will be
inaccurate
• So, prices might deviate very far from
the actual value and thus would affect
the tender later.
Design Stage
CAD Measurement BIM
Accuracy Better representation and
visualization of architect’s design
• Different tools and methods available to
eliminate human errors to obtain exact • BIM provides a 3D virtual model that
dimensions enables clients to visually understand
• Highly accurate design and drawings how a building will be constructed
with precise measurement. • Thus, clients may ‘virtually’ walk around
their building to confirm that the project
Increase the productivity of the design requirements are met.
designers
• Designers able to visualize the final
product that is to be made.
• Given animation and see how the actual
product will work
• Thus helping the designers to
immediately make the modification if
required
 Design Stage
Benefits
CAD Measurement
Improve the quality of design
• Higher accuracy will lead to better
designs and measurements
• Helps carrying out manufacturing faster
and reducing the wastages that could
have occurred because of faulty designs
and measurements.
BIM
Fewer reworks
• Can identify potential problems in
design and fix them before the error is
committed in the physical world.
• Thus, faults and reworking efforts will
reduce thus shortening the time spent.

Constraints
Manual Measurement
Prone to damage and being
misplaced
• Printed papers bear the risk of being
damaged, lost, or misplaced
• It will takes a lot of effort for getting the
information back.
Difficulty in looking for
information when needed
• It is hard to trace for information
manually
• if too many drawings are left
unorganised, it would waste time in
searching the information from there
especially if one is retrieving information
from old projects.
Design Stage
CAD Measurement
Experiencing loss of information
• Information such as measurement can
be instantly lost or corrupted if a
computer problems (power cuts or
viruses) occurs as there are no auto
back-up system
• Most common reason for corruption is
software crashes while saving data to a
file.
Inability to prepare Bills of
Quantities
• Unlike BIM software, CAD is just a tool
which helps in measuring the quantity
only but does not have the function of
preparing BQ
• Thus, data must be transferred to
another software / manually to continue
preparing the BQ for the project.
BIM
Lack of experts
• Limited numbers of experts working in
this field when compared to CAD
• To overcome this barrier, additional
investment in training and education
such as training programs and
workshops are being arranged
Size and complexity of BIM
• The large size of BIM files will require
different means of data sharing.
• Real time access to the database from
distant firms may require large and high
speed broadband internet access,
available at all time.
 Pre-Construction Stage
Benefits
Manual Measurement
Costing, evaluating,
valuing and varying
building works becomes
easier
• Quantities measured are pre-
determined and are produced in a
consistent manner which is familiar
to the construction industry
Does not require any
software application to
do taking off elements
• Users only require basic knowledge
in measurement and only incurred
printing charges
CAD Measurement
Allows architect to draw
accurately
• Possess features like object snaps
with polar tracking or specifying
exact coordinates
Flexible To Organize
Drawing Information
• Drawings can be edited without
erasing and redrawing
• Drafting methods that use rulers,
squares and compasses is provided
• Layers can be displayed, edited, and
printed separately
BIM
Easier visualisation of the
upcoming project
• Modelling process allows easier
visualisation and will ease the
communication process between
consultants and client
Detects clashes and
constructibility issues
• BIM 3D Models highlight temporary
work requirements, constructibility
issues and potential clashes
• Provides site investigation
information in a standards format
 Pre-Construction Stage
Benefits
CAD Measurement
Creating database for
manufacturing
• When creating the data for the
documentation of the designing,
most of the data for manufacturing is
created
Enable checking tool paths
• Able to verify the complete
machining process in a virtual
environment
• CAD simulations are also useful for
scheduling, planning, material supply
and delivery
BIM
Common Data
Environment
• Ensures all development information
is linked during pre-award stage and
accessible through one common
respiratory
Produce reliable and
accurate cost estimates
before construction
starts
• Estimators are able to identify the
relationships between quantities,
costs and locations
• Help to differentiate the areas and
components of the building that
contribute to the total cost of the
project
 Pre-Construction Stage
Constraints
Manual Measurement CAD Measurement BIM

Time consuming Lost of work due to Model content may not be

computer breakdown totally correct
• Requesting unclear information from
consultant and manual taking off • Information and work done can be • BIM modelling content may contain
quantities by using scale ruler and instantly lost or be corrupted by error as information obtained from
calculator may be time consuming viruses if a computer problem occurs different resources resulting lots of
and there are no back ups problem occur
Lack of sufficient
• Works are also in the risk of being
knowledge and stolen or ‘hacked’
understanding of
construction technology
by younger generation
• Some students might rely more on
computers and expect to engage
with their studies using computer
systems
 Construction Stage
Benefits
Manual Measurement CAD Measurement
Facilitate the approval of Established drafting
progress payment by the
standards
client
• Conformity to company standards
• Any progress payment can be can be ensured by creating styles for
supported by picture in hard copy text, dimensions, and line types that
can apply consistently
• Using drawing templates will help in
quickly start the new drawings that
conform to standards
Code reuse
• Removes problems of duplication of
labour as the architects can copy
different parts of code and design
which can then be reused multiple
times
BIM
Site Coordination
• 3D or 4D of site coordination models
are useful for the contractors in
planning for the site logistics,
develop traffic layouts and identify
potential hazards at the site
Serves as a coordination
tool to optimise the
collaboration among
project team
• BIM model can be used to deliver
updates from the project team to the
contractor
(E.g. refinements to the site levels for site
drainage and plant species substitutions)
 Construction Stage
Benefits
CAD Measurement
Better Communication
• Better and standardised drawings
can be made easily resulting in better
documentation of the design, fewer
drawing errors, and greater legibility
BIM
Provides contractors with
full control of material
quantities in a project
• Contractors are able to instantly
generate precise quantity take-offs
from a completed model for building
materials that tend to encounter
greater deviations from quantity
estimates or can potentially have
greater impacts on the budget
(E.g. concrete or reinforcing bars)

Constraints
Manual Measurement
Human error
• Chance of errors is high due to high
workload of manual taking off
workload
• Missing element may be unavoidable
as too much elements needed to
take into account by a measurer
Construction Stage
CAD Measurement
Limitations of
measurements
• QS could only measure 2D outlines
like lengths or areas only based on
2D drawings, but could measure the
volume out on 3D drawings
Requires understanding
upon vast quantities of
• Design,data
engineering, manufacturing,
and maintenance processes have
routinely existed in virtual isolation
from one another
• Part of the scope challenge relates to
data, especially as products become
complex.
BIM
Incompatibility with
partners
• For instance, it is possible that the
subcontractors did not use BIM and
do not know how to access and
extract the information from the
model
Much larger file sizes
than traditional CAD
systems
• More larger and complex files which
require higher performing computer
hardware to operate
 Post-Construction Stage
Benefits
Manual Measurement
Easy reference
• A well signposted set of dimensions
saves time and money in the event
that the take-off has to be referred
to, (E.g. where the final account has
to be adjusted as a result of
variations)
CAD Measurement
Easy saving and
sharing
• All the designs and drawings created
can be easily saved and preserved for
future use and reference.
• Saved drawings can be edited and
printed whenever required. Some
components from the drawing can
also be standardized for future uses.
• Unlike the manual drafting, the CAD
drawings require less space and can
be stored in hard drive, USB pen
drive or cloud and can be shared
easily
BIM
Ensures the seamless
transportation of data
to facility owners
• Managers can have access to
essential data about each nook and
cranny of a facility with the space
information available in a high level
of detail (LOD) BIM model
• Eliminates the potential for any
discrepancies resulting from a
change of plans while the facility was
being built
 Post-Construction Stage
Constraints
Manual Measurement CAD Measurement BIM

Large amount of Requires yearly Contractual changes

disorganised files to deal
with
• All the documents need to be
organised and categorised for ease
of future reference as there might be
waste of calculations or unclear
drawings
subscriptions or
training
• CAD systems may involve software
update costs or operator training
• Yearly subscriptions for the CAD
software, operating systems and
other supporting software
applications are required
on economic
incentives and
ownership of
information
• The correct way of dividing the
economic benefits gained by BIM
implementation should be
determined between project
participants to avoid any financial
disputes