3.
0 Categories of Software Used in Cost Estimation
(2 pages, with APA 7th edition in-text citations)
Cost estimation software falls into several categories, each offering varying features depending
on project scale, user expertise, and integration needs. Some tools are built specifically for
quantity surveying tasks, while others extend general design or spreadsheet functionalities to
support cost data. This section categorizes commonly used software into four groups:
commercial quantity surveying software, BIM-integrated platforms, spreadsheet-based tools, and
cloud-based solutions.
3.1 Commercial Quantity Surveying Software
These are purpose-built applications for quantity surveyors. They support measurement, pricing,
and report generation. Key examples include:
CostX: Known for its live-linked measurement capabilities, CostX allows users to
measure directly from 2D drawings or 3D BIM models. It also links dimensions with rate
libraries, producing dynamic cost plans that update in real-time (Exactal, 2020).
Candy: Widely used in contractor-based estimating, Candy supports tendering, cash
flow, and planning. It is especially popular in Africa and the Middle East for complex
project pricing and subcontractor comparison (RICS, 2022).
WinQS: Designed for traditional QS workflows, WinQS allows users to prepare
elemental cost plans, bills of quantities, and final accounts with built-in pricing libraries.
These tools significantly reduce manual input by automating takeoff and pricing processes.
Studies have shown that quantity surveyors using tools like CostX and Candy achieve higher
productivity and improved pricing accuracy (Babalola et al., 2019).
3.2 BIM-Integrated Cost Estimation Tools
Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms offer parametric modeling that integrates
design with time and cost data. Cost estimation tools that plug into BIM models provide a more
dynamic approach to pricing.
Revit with Cost Plugins: Revit allows users to attach quantities and materials to model
elements. When linked with cost data via plugins (e.g., Innovaya, CostOS), estimators
can generate real-time cost feedback as designs evolve (Sanni & Hashim, 2017).
Navisworks with Takeoff Modules: Navisworks provides clash detection and model
review. When used with estimation tools, it supports quantity extraction directly from the
model.
The benefit of BIM-based estimation is not only speed but also consistency with the design
model. This reduces discrepancies between design and cost documents, improving cost control
throughout the project lifecycle (Olatunji, 2011).
3.3 Spreadsheet-Based Estimation Tools
Microsoft Excel remains the most common tool among small to medium-sized firms in Nigeria
and other developing countries. It offers flexibility, custom formula creation, and familiarity
among users.
Despite not being purpose-built, Excel supports advanced estimation functions such as:
Rate build-up using embedded formulas
Lookup tables for material and labor rates
Templates for standard cost elements and pricing formats
However, Excel lacks automated measurement and real-time integration with design models.
This limits its ability to deliver speed gains comparable to dedicated QS software. Still, it
remains dominant due to its low cost, accessibility, and ease of use (Aibinu & Pasco, 2008).
3.4 Cloud-Based and Collaborative Estimation Platforms
Recent tools offer cloud-based access, multi-user collaboration, and integration with project
management systems. These include:
Procore: A cloud platform supporting document management, budgeting, and estimation,
mainly used in the U.S.
Buildertrend: Offers pricing, scheduling, and cost tracking for residential and small-
scale commercial projects.
Cubit: Combines 2D and 3D takeoffs with a database of rates and cloud storage.
Cloud-based platforms allow remote access, version control, and real-time team collaboration,
which increases estimation speed in multi-location or fast-track projects. They are particularly
useful for firms managing multiple concurrent tenders or site locations (Eadie et al., 2013).
Software selection depends on budget, project type, team skill, and level of integration required.
Firms working on large infrastructure or complex building projects often adopt commercial or
BIM-based tools, while smaller firms rely on Excel or lightweight cloud tools. Each category
plays a role in improving estimation speed and productivity in different contexts.
References
Aibinu, A. A., & Pasco, T. (2008). The accuracy of pre-tender building cost estimates in
Australia. Construction Management and Economics, 26(12), 1257–1269.
https://doi.org/10.1080/01446190802596227
Babalola, O., Ayegba, F., & Ogunsemi, D. (2019). Software usage in cost estimation practice: A
study of quantity surveyors in Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Environmental Sciences and
Technology, 3(1), 95–104.
Eadie, R., Browne, M., Odeyinka, H., McKeown, C., & McNiff, S. (2013). BIM implementation
throughout the UK construction project lifecycle: An analysis. Automation in Construction, 36,
145–151. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2013.09.001
Exactal. (2020). CostX product overview. https://www.costx.com
Olatunji, O. A. (2011). The impact of BIM on construction projects in the UK. Journal of Civil
Engineering and Management, 17(1), 107–115. https://doi.org/10.3846/13923730.2011.555471
RICS. (2022). QS and Construction Standards: Cost Estimating Software Guidelines. Royal
Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
Sanni, A., & Hashim, M. (2017). A review of the integration of building information modeling
and cost estimating in construction. International Journal of Built Environment and
Sustainability, 4(3), 148–156. https://doi.org/10.11113/ijbes.v4.n3.207
Proceed to Section 4.0: Impact on Speed of Cost Estimation?
