THE EFFECT OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIELD OF QUANTITY SURVEYING

AND HOW IT AFFECTS COST, LABOUR AND TIME.

EDEH CHIKAMMA DESTINY

KASU/18/QSV/1034
 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

The construction industry has recently witnessed a paradigm shift from traditional paper-

based method of service delivery to electronic information exchange using Information

Technology (IT), at least in the western world like UK. It is now evident that the adoption of

Information Technology can enhance construction productivity and improve communications

for effective decision-making and coordination among construction participants. The ability

of the industry to avail itself of technology depends on the level of usage by construction

participants including the Quantity Surveyor (QS) who plays a major role in the management

of project success determinants, such as cost, time and quality. It is apparent that we live in a

dynamic world characterized by incessant technology change. The construction industry is a

dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, constantly adapting to advancements in technology.

Quantity surveying (QS), a crucial profession within this sector, plays a vital role in

managing project costs, ensuring accuracy, and maximizing value throughout the

construction lifecycle (Aune and Iveland, 2020). However, the traditional practices employed

in QS are increasingly challenged by the rapid integration of technology into various aspects

of construction workflow.

Recent advancements in technology, such as specialized quantity surveying software (QS

Software) and Building Information Modelling (BIM), have demonstrably enhanced the

efficiency and accuracy of core QS tasks (Aune & Iveland, 2020; Succar & Kassem, 2016).

QS software streamlines tasks like cost estimating, bill of quantities (BOQ) preparation, and

tender analysis, minimizing the risk of human error and improving overall project efficiency.

BIM, on the other hand, allows for the creation of a single, centralized 3D model of the entire
project, enabling quantity surveyors to extract accurate quantities directly from the model,

fostering better collaboration with other project stakeholders

Furthermore, technology fosters improved communication and collaboration within

construction projects. The rise of cloud-based platforms facilitates real-time data sharing and

collaboration between quantity surveyors, architects, engineers, and other project

participants, leading to informed decision-making and improved project outcomes (Azhar,

Karshenas, & Alinaitwe, 2012). Additionally, communication and collaboration tools like

instant messaging, video conferencing, and online document sharing platforms enhance

communication efficiency and enable remote collaboration, especially for geographically

dispersed teams (Chen & Kamara, 2012).

However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the integration of technology into QS practices

also presents several challenges. The cost of implementing new technology and software can

be a significant barrier, particularly for small and medium-sized quantity surveying firms

(Akanbi, Oyedele, & Olomolaiye, 2018). Additionally, adapting to new workflows and

technologies can be challenging for some professionals, requiring training and support to

overcome potential resistance to change (Aibinu & Anumba, 2012). Finally, data security

concerns are paramount in the digital environment, necessitating robust cybersecurity

measures and awareness among all stakeholders to protect sensitive project data (Wong,

2013).

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

It is a known fact that advancement in technology and evolution of information technology as

dramatically change the way business is conducted by various professionals. It has reduced

the cost of services, reduces labour and saves time. The quantity surveying profession are not

left behind, they have also embraced the use of this advanced form of technology in
delivering their services. The researcher is therefore examining the effect of this technology

in the field of quantity surveying and how it affect cost, labour and time.

1.3 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What is the effect of technology in the field of quantity surveying?

2. How does technology affects cost, labour and time in the field of quantity surveying?

3. What are the factors limiting the use of technology in the field of quantity surveying?

1.4 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1.4.1 Aim

The aim of this project research is to assess The Effect of Technology In the Field of

Quantity Surveying and how it affects cost, labour and time.

1.4.2 Objectives

The following are the objectives of this study:

1. To examine the effect of technology in the field of quantity surveying.

2. To examine how technology affects cost, labour and time in the field of quantity

surveying.

3. To examine the factors limiting the use of technology in the field of quantity

surveying

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The following are the significance of this study:

1. The outcome of this study will educate the stakeholders in the quantity surveying

profession on the effect of technology in the field of quantity surveying with

particular focus on how it affects cost, labour and time.

 2. This research will be a contribution to the body of literature in the area of the effect of

personality trait on student’s academic performance, thereby constituting the

empirical literature for future research in the subject area.

1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study will cover the effect of technology use in the field of quantity surveying