Specialized Software Usage among Quantity Surveryors in Sri Lanka

Abstract

In the construction sector, the role of the Quantity Surveyor (QS) is critical because of the constant review of designs in our construction industry. Many software configurations have emerged in the market as a result of technological advancements that resolve current challenges. The objectives of this study were to identify the level of specialised software usage among quantity surveyors, determine the barriers to adapt advanced QS-related software in QS practice, determine the benefits of specialised software usage and to determine the strategies for overcoming the barriers to implementing advanced QS-related software. Data were obtained through ten interviews and fifty questionnaire responses to achieve these objectives. 70 questionnaires were distributed for data collection and 50 responses were obtained, resulting in a response rate of 71.42%. The study found that MS Excel and Auto CAD are the software most often used by Quantity Surveyors 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 the high speed, increased productivity and accuracy.