Precise measurement is crucial in construction for a range of reasons. It helps to accurately estimate the cost of materials, labour, and equipment, which helps in making informed decisions and avoiding costly overruns. It also enables the construction team to plan their work more effectively and avoid potential delays and additional costs, while measuring and tracking the progress of construction work precisely helps to ensure that the project stays on track and meets quality standards.
Moreover, precise measurement allows construction teams to allocate resources more efficiently and minimise waste, while ensuring that construction projects meet building codes and regulations. Accurate measurement also helps create a detailed record of the construction project, which can be used for future reference and dispute resolution if needed. In addition, it helps facilitate clear communication between different stakeholders involved in a construction project, such as architects, engineers, contractors, and owners.
Bill of Quantities (BOQ)
A bill of quantities (BOQ) is an essential document in construction that provides a comprehensive and itemised list of all the materials, labour, and other resources required to complete a construction project. It forms the basis for preparing cost estimates and cost plans and is an important tool for managing the budget and resources of a construction project. The BOQ is used by the contractor to price the contract and by the client to compare tenders from different contractors. It is also used by the quantity surveyor as a reference during the project to monitor costs and ensure that the project is delivered within budget.
Although digital techniques are transforming the way construction projects are planned, executed, and managed, precise measurement remains critical in determining the cost of a project and ensuring that the final outcome meets the required specifications and standards. The method of measurement in construction involves using standardised techniques and tools to measure and quantify various aspects of the construction, such as the length and width of rooms, the height of walls and ceilings, the volume of concrete required, and the quantity of materials such as bricks, tiles, and fixtures.
Digital techniques such as 3D laser scanning and building information modelling (BIM) can provide improved accuracy and visualization of construction projects. They can also facilitate real-time collaboration between different stakeholders, allowing for efficient data management and better risk management. However, the basic concept of measurement remains the same, and digital techniques should not be seen as a substitute for precise measurement in construction.
In conclusion, precise measurement is essential in construction, and the use of a properly prepared bill of quantities and method of measurement compliance can ensure that a project is managed effectively in terms of cost, quality, and risk. While digital techniques are changing the construction industry, they should not replace the need for precise measurement. The statement “Measurement is dead, long live measurement” highlights the importance of viewing measurement as a concept that evolves and adapts over time, rather than something that is obsolete.
