Essential features of a building services standard method of measurement in Malaysia
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Date
2015
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Emerald Insight
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the need to develop building service standard
method of measurement (BSSMM) that would provide a home ground advantage and a framework for
managing the cost of building services by quantity surveyors.
Design/methodology/approach – A review of previous research on the rules of measurement was
carried out. This exercise provides the basis for questionnaire design which was administered to
quantity surveyors in Malaysia construction industry.
Findings – The results indicated the need to develop BSSMM. In total, 23 variables were identified
as essential features of such standard method of measurement. These variables were grouped
into three categories and a priority ranking of them was carried out. The analysis revealed
a strong agreement among quantity surveyors on the priority ranking of the essential features
of the BSSMM.
Research limitations/implications – Although, the research would assist industry stakeholders in
developing BSSMM that reflects local and international best practices, there is need to further
investigate how the rules of the BSSMM could be aligned with construction industry classification
systems.
Practical implications – The availability of information and computer technology (ICT) tools
has transformed the traditional practices in the industry and offered values to quantity surveyors,
but if quantity surveyors’ tools cannot be consolidated and incorporated into emerging ICT applications,
then QS collaboration will be difficult, and the requirements for electronic data exchange will be
impractical. Therefore, this type of standard method of measurement will facilitate cross-referencing and
coordination between BoQ and other documents such as drawings, specifications and tender produced by
other project participants and thereby lay efficient foundation for effective collaboration of quantity
surveyors in BIM model. In addition, the BSSMM will not only comply with local industry practices, it will
also be internationally compatible.
Originality/value – Adoption of a structured format based on BSSMM to present building services
cost information is essential in view of the increase in the value and complexity of building services in
modern buildings. However, there is need to enhance quantity surveyors’ knowledge in the technology
and cost management of building services so as to ensure the reliability of cost advice provided to
clients. This goal would be partly achieved through education and training of Quantity Surveyors/Cost
Consultants in the interpretation and use of the rules of an SMM.
Description
Keywords
Malaysia, Standards, Construction management, Cost estimates, Building services, Quantity surveying