There have been changes in the function of the construction estimator over the last few decades of technological development and the application of digital technology. Today, estimators no longer depend on paperwork, manuals, and face-to-face conferences but are equipped with estimating software, building information modeling, and cloud technology.
The Traditional Estimator
Before the advancement of current digital tools, construction estimating services estimators were mostly on their own during the initial phases of calculations of materials, equipment, and labor using only hand calculations or simple spreadsheets at best. They were overly dependent on paper documents called sets and face-to-face sessions with the clients, architects, and subcontractors to gather information, review plans and try to avoid mistakes or missed details that later would cost more. Estimating was even more of a manual, siloed, and reactive process than before.
Digitalization is one of the biggest changes to have manifested itself in the contemporary world and has affected almost all aspects of our lives, including work.
When construction software started coming into the construction industry in the early 1990s and 2000s, the estimators had little help from computer-aided drafting (CAD) 2D and basic 3D. They also began employing initial standalone estimating tools that could assist in the consolidation of estimated information.
It also enabled collaboration in the cloud which allowed estimators to share digital document sets rather than piles of paperwork. They could use digital means to review designs, add comments, or use RFIs to make the process clearer. Email also helped link up organizational teams while at the same time lowering the estimating timelines.
These simple computer applications provided a significant evolution in the move from paper-based and manual estimating to actual digitization of the process.
Building Information Modeling: Implementation and New Software
Increasingly in the mid to late 2000s and early 2010s as BIM definitions and capabilities grew and systems became more refined and data-rich, estimators had a new parametric 3D modeling capability introduced that could link directly to their estimating tools. BIM provides a wealth of constructible information available to estimators who can immediately ‘construct’ designs ‘virtually’ and obtain quantities, material, system detail, and much more at their fingertips for inclusion in the estimates.
For the same reason, other specialized tools and enterprise software packages also appeared to integrate all the stages of project estimating. Tools that are now available include cost databases, analytics for better accuracy, change order tracking, bid analysis, and many others that help estimators give accurate and proper data for projects.
Some of these platforms even integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze past data in a bid to look for trends that will assist in the estimating process. Some help simplify coordination between project teams and eliminate time-wasting repetitions as well as help state the project requirements at the beginning.
The advancement of technology is one of the most popular issues in the contemporary world and it has been the main focus of various studies for the recent past. One of the most significant aspects of contemporary society is mobile technology.
Very recently, the use of mobile technology in construction estimating service has enabled construction estimators to work remotely and yet be able to work interdependently. Mobile devices let the team reach BIM models, estimates, projects documents, and other members no matter the place.
Some of the robust platforms also support smooth synchronization which means a quantity count or an estimate specification that an estimator has initiated on the desktop can be checked through a mobile device on the job site. It also helps in quick value engineering discussions, helps in keeping field, and office Co-located people on the same page, and gives estimators more meaningful Cost inputs.
The Next Phase of Digitalization
In the future, construction cost estimation services estimators will remain a popular career field driven by the digital revolution. The shift to 5G connection, augmented and virtual realities, and advancement in such fields as self-driving tools, 3D printing, and exoskeletons will likely affect their positions.
About the impact of technology on the work of construction estimators, the writer posits that, as we continue to automate repetitive tasks, estimators will continually be faced with the challenge of using their institutional knowledge, analyzing patterns, and providing insight on strategic cost planning. Sophisticated software will enhance the integration of work among different project teams and cut down on redundancy; at the same time, it will enhance speed to estimating while increasing accuracy.
Conclusion
Finally, it is seen that estimators must change, adapt, and make efforts to learn new skills while using the potential of new technologies. Digital transformation is a continuous improvement to the estimating profession in terms of productivity, competitive advantage, and profitability. Heated and construction organizations that take proactive approaches to utilizing modern solutions for their projects will set healthy paces for their organizations, as well as the construction industry, for future development and sustainability.
