Design and Development of the Sistem iBurst@PKB: A User Requirement-Driven Approach for Digital Quantity Surveying

Abstract

Digital transformation in the construction industry has accelerated the use of web-based technologies, automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve operational efficiency and information management. In the field of Quantity Surveying (QS), construction cost management and calculation of built-up rates are important processes in the preparation of cost estimates, budget control and project financial decision-making. However, current practices still rely heavily on manual approaches and spreadsheet platforms that have constraints in terms of data integration, accessibility, scalability and information security. This study discusses the design and development of the Sistem i-Burst@PKB (Interactive Built-Up Rate System) System using a user requirement-driven approach to support Digital Quantity Surveying practices. The study uses a Design and Development Research (DDR) approach which involves the user requirements analysis phase, system design, development and system integration. The developed system integrates various functions including user dashboard, project management, 13 construction work modules, build-up rate analysis module, Interactive Cost Calculator, QS Technical Reference Module as well as the “Ask i-Burst” smart assistance function based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). The migration from a spreadsheet platform to a web-based environment improves system accessibility, centralized data management, flexibility of use and digital functionality. The development of Sistem i-Burst@PKB demonstrates the potential for developing a local digital construction cost management platform to support QS practices in Malaysia. In addition to supporting Digital Quantity Surveying, the system also emphasizes industrial usability, real-world application readiness and commercialization potential. This study contributes to the development of digital construction cost management through the development of an integrated, user-oriented and AI-powered platform.

Keywords— Digital Quantity Surveying, Construction Cost Management, Built-Up Rate, Web-Based System, Artificial Intelligence (AI).