EFFECT OF USING QS SOFTWARES ON PRODUCTIVITY OF QSS

Abstract

In this 21st century, the increased scopes of work require quantity surveyors (QSs) to embrace the use of quantity surveying softwares (QS softwares) in order to produce more accurate and better quality work for their clients. However, without necessary skills in using proprietary or in-house QS softwares, the productivity of QSs will be adversely affected. The research objectives of this study are to determine the ability of QSs in using QS softwares, investigate on how the use of such softwares helped in QS’s productivity and examine the relationship between training and productivity. Four hypotheses are constructed to show whether is there any significant level of difficulty in carrying out work without necessary skills in using QS softwares, increase in productivity with the use of such softwares, increase in ability of QSs to use the specialist softwares after training and whether if training in using QS softwares leads to better productivity. Through literature reviews, surveys and statistical research analyses, the hypotheses were supported. Limitations of this study are possible bias response as not all firms surveyed uses QS softwares, and the small sample size of the survey respondents. Through this research, it was found that there is a positive relationship between training in using QS softwares and productivity of QS. To conclude the study, employers should promote the use of QS softwares providing suitable and user-friendly softwares. QSs should attend training programmes to equip themselves with relevant skills to use the softwares and increase productivity.