The Best Quantity Surveying Software use in 2024
Quantity surveying is an essential aspect of the construction industry. It involves cost estimation, budgeting, contract management, and more. With the rise of digital solutions, quantity surveying has become more efficient and accurate.
1. CostX by Exactal
Overview: CostX is a leading quantity surveying software known for its advanced features and user-friendly interface. It supports 2D and 3D takeoff, integrated workbooks, and customizable reports.
Key Features:
a. 2D and 3D Takeoff: CostX allows users to perform both 2D and 3D takeoffs, making it versatile for various project needs.
b. Integrated Workbooks: The software provides workbooks for detailed cost analysis, ensuring all project costs are accounted for.
c. Customizable Reports: Users can generate and customize reports to fit specific requirements, enhancing communication with stakeholders.
d. BIM Compatibility: CostX integrates with Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling more accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimates.
Pros:
a. Comprehensive features for both 2D and 3D projects.
b. Excellent reporting and analysis tools.
c. Strong BIM integration.
Cons:
a. Higher learning curve for beginners.
b. Premium pricing can be a barrier for smaller firms.
Ideal For: Large construction firms and projects that require detailed cost analysis and BIM integration.
2. Bluebeam Revu
Overview: Bluebeam Revu is a versatile software widely used in the construction industry. While not exclusively for quantity surveying, its features make it highly effective for this purpose.
Key Features:
a. PDF Markups: Bluebeam Revu offers extensive markup tools for PDF documents, allowing detailed annotations and measurements.
b. Takeoff Tools: The software includes tools for performing quantity takeoffs directly on PDF plans.
c. Collaboration: Revu’s cloud-based collaboration tools enable real-time collaboration among team members.
d. Customizable Toolsets: Users can customize toolsets to suit specific quantity surveying needs.
Pros:
a. User-friendly interface with powerful markup tools.
b. Excellent for collaboration and document management.
c. Cost-effective compared to some dedicated quantity surveying software.
Cons:
a. Primarily a PDF tool, so it may lack some specialized features of dedicated quantity surveying software.
b. May require additional plugins or integrations for advanced features.
Ideal For: Small to medium-sized firms looking for a cost-effective and versatile tool for quantity surveying and collaboration.
3. ProEst
Overview: ProEst is a cloud-based estimating software designed for the construction industry. It offers a range of features tailored to the needs of quantity surveyors.
Key Features:
a. Cloud-Based: Being cloud-based, ProEst offers accessibility from anywhere, ensuring data is always up-to-date.
b. Comprehensive Estimating Tools: The software provides tools for detailed cost estimating, budgeting, and forecasting.
c. Integration: ProEst integrates with other construction management software, enhancing its functionality.
d. Reporting: Users can generate detailed reports and dashboards for better project insights.
Pros:
a. Cloud-based accessibility.
b. Strong integration with other software.
c. Detailed reporting and forecasting tools.
Cons:
a. Monthly subscription model can be costly over time.
b. May require internet connectivity for full functionality.
Ideal For: Firms that value accessibility and integration, and need robust estimating and reporting tools.
4. WinQS
Overview: WinQS is a quantity surveying software specifically designed for the needs of quantity surveyors. It provides tools for cost estimating, planning, and project control.
Key Features:
a. Cost Estimating: WinQS offers detailed cost estimating tools, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
b. Planning and Control: The software includes features for project planning and cost control.
c. Reporting: Users can generate various reports to track project progress and costs.
d. Integration: WinQS integrates with other construction and financial software.
Pros:
a. Specialized tools for quantity surveying.
b. Strong focus on cost control and planning.
c. Good integration with other software.
Cons:
a. Limited features compared to more comprehensive software.
b. Interface may seem outdated to some users.
Ideal For: Quantity surveyors looking for a dedicated and specialized tool for cost estimating and project control.
5. PriMus by ACCA Software
Overview: PriMus is an all-in-one quantity surveying software that covers a wide range of functions, from cost estimation to project management.
Key Features:
a. Cost Estimation: PriMus offers detailed cost estimation tools, ensuring accurate budgeting.
b. BIM Integration: The software supports BIM integration, allowing for more precise quantity takeoffs.
c. Project Management: PriMus includes project management tools to help keep projects on track.
d. Compliance: The software ensures compliance with local standards and regulations.
Pros:
a. Comprehensive all-in-one solution.
b. Strong BIM integration.
c. Ensures compliance with standards and regulations.
Cons:
a. Can be overwhelming due to the breadth of features.
b. May require training for full utilization.
Ideal For: Firms looking for a comprehensive solution that covers all aspects of quantity surveying and project management.
6. Candy by Construction Computer Software (CCS)
Overview: Candy is a specialized software for construction project control and estimating. It is designed to meet the needs of quantity surveyors and project managers.
Key Features:
a. Estimating: Candy provides detailed cost estimating tools, ensuring accurate project budgets.
b. Planning: The software includes project planning and scheduling tools.
c. Cost Control: Candy offers robust cost control features to monitor project expenses.
d. Integration: The software integrates with other CCS products for enhanced functionality.
Pros:
a. Specialized tools for construction project control.
b. Strong cost control and planning features.
c. Good integration with other CCS products.
Cons:
a. Higher learning curve for new users.
b. May be too specialized for smaller firms.
Ideal For: Large construction firms and projects that require detailed cost control and planning.
7. BuildSoft Pro
Overview: BuildSoft Pro is a cost estimation and quantity surveying software designed for small to medium-sized construction firms.
Key Features:
a. Cost Estimation: BuildSoft Pro offers detailed cost estimation tools, ensuring accurate budgets.
b. Quantity Takeoff: The software includes tools for performing quantity takeoffs from plans.
c. Reporting: Users can generate detailed reports for project analysis and communication.
d. User-Friendly: The software is designed to be user-friendly, reducing the learning curve.
To learn more, watch the following video tutorial.
Video Source: Nothando Moloi
Pros:
a. User-friendly interface.
b. Comprehensive cost estimation and takeoff tools.
c. Affordable for small to medium-sized firms.
Cons:
a. Limited advanced features compared to more comprehensive software.
b. May not be suitable for very large projects.
Ideal For: Small to medium-sized firms looking for an affordable and user-friendly quantity surveying tool.
Conclusion
Exploring innovative topics in construction and quantity take-offs can greatly enhance industry knowledge and practices. From advancements in technology like AI and BIM to sustainable building methods and safety innovations, these subjects offer valuable insights and opportunities for professionals to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field. By delving into these areas, we can foster a more efficient, sustainable, and advanced construction industry.
