Specialized Software Usage among the Quantity Surveyors in Sri Lanka

Abstract

In the construction sector, the role of the Quantity Surveyor (QS) is critical by the constant review of designs in our construction industry. Many software configurations have emerged in the market as a result of technological advancements that solve current challenges. The objectives of this study were identify the level of specialized softwere usage among the quantity surveryors, determine the barriers to adapting advanced QS-related software in QS practice, determine the benefits of specialized software usage and determine the strategies for overcoming the barriers to implementing advanced QS-related software. Data was obtained through ten interviews and fifty questionnaire responses to achieve the objectives. 70 questionnaires were distributed for data collection, and 50 responses were obtained, resulting in a response rate of 71.42 percent. The study found that MS Excel and Auto CAD are the most often used quantity surveying software in Sri Lanka. The main sub barriers were the installation cost of the software, lack of experience with the software, and the lack of senior and firm support. Major benefits identified were Faster, increased productivity and accuracy.