The Impact of Automation Technologies on Cost Estimation Accuracy and Efficiency in Quantity Surveying Practice in Malaysia

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technology in line with the Construction 4.0 agenda has accelerated the use of automation technology in the construction industry, especially in Quantity Surveying (QS) practices. Technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital cost estimating software and automated quantity surveying systems have the potential to improve the cost estimating process by improving data accuracy, reducing human error and increasing operational efficiency. However, empirical evidence regarding the impact of automation technology on cost estimating performance among Quantity Surveying practitioners in Malaysia is still limited. Therefore, this study aims to identify the level of automation technology usage and examine its relationship with the accuracy and efficiency of cost estimating in Quantity Surveying practices in Malaysia. This study uses a quantitative approach through a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected using an online questionnaire distributed to 80 Quantity Surveying practitioners from Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor and Penang through purposive sampling and convenience sampling methods. The data obtained were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software through descriptive statistical analysis and Pearson Correlation. The findings of the study showed that the level of automation technology usage among Quantity Surveyors was at a moderately high level with an overall mean score of 3.82. In addition, there was a significant positive relationship between automation technology and cost estimation accuracy (r = 0.63, p < 0.05) and cost estimation efficiency (r = 0.71, p < 0.05). The results of the study proved that automation technology contributed positively to increasing the reliability of cost estimation, reducing manual workload, accelerating information processing and increasing professional productivity. Overall, this study emphasizes the important role of automation technology in supporting the digital transformation of the Quantity Surveyor profession and provides practical implications for the industry, professional bodies and educational institutions in strengthening digital competencies and expanding the use of technology sustainably in the Malaysian construction industry.

Keywords— Automation technology, Quantity Surveying, Cost Estimation, Building Information Modelling (BIM), Digital Transformation