The effects that building information modelling may have on the role of quantity surveyors

Abstract

The rationale behind the chosen research topic is the advancement of information technology in the construction industry in recent years and a mandate introduced into public works contracts in the United Kingdom in 2016, requiring Level 2 BIM to be used on all public works contracts. This research study aims to examine the affects that Building Information Modelling may have on the role of Quantity Surveyors. The methodology adopted to carry out the research was a number of semi-structured interviews with Quantity Surveyor working in industry. A qualitative method of analysis was be used to analyse the data collected, the results of which were analysed against the data in the Literature Review. The interview participants were Quantity Surveyors whom had various levels of experience with BIM.\ud The main findings were that the role of the QSs would change in terms of the method that QSs adopt to quantify materials. Measurement procedure may move away from measuring lines on 2D drawing and towards quantifying items that are modelled in a 3D environment. The time spent measuring will be reduced, as well as the number of assumptions that QSs need to make. Re-works due to design errors and variations may become less common, but will most likely still occur due to clients changing their minds. The QSs role as a cost manager will still always persist. The QSs, in time, can offer enhanced service to the design team, by becoming more active in the design phase. The quick estimates are likely to result in changes to the design pre-contract becoming a much more intense occurrence. Buildings will be designed to cost