Thesis April 11

COST ESTIMATING SOFTWARE FOR RS GRAVADOR BUILDERS
CHAPTER 1
Background of the Study
1.1 Introduction
Through the years, the construction industry is constantly enhancing and
upgrading in terms of methodologies, techniques, materials used, requirements, etc. to
cope up with the demand of functional and safety need of human. (Chang & Swenson,
2014) In spite of the growing productivity, construction project estimating, a concept as
old as the ancient Egyptian pyramids, is still one of the foundation methodologies of a
construction project. (Degenaar, 2013)
Construction cost estimating is the identification and compilation of the needed
materials of cost for the establishment of a construction project. (Patel, 1990) Traditional
cost estimation is still used today. Despite its popularity, problems in manual computing
may occur including decreased accuracy and vulnerability from miscalculation because
of unavoidable human error from time to time. (Amade & Akpan, 2014)
With the continuous innovation of estimation and the introduction of technology
to the construction world, the method significantly increased its accuracy, reliability, and
speed. Some construction firms perform estimation with the use of spreadsheet
applications, that can simplify repetitive formulas for the estimation of the required
materials of the project, as well as provide an organized table and format for the data.
(Hagamann, 2013)
Moreover, a recent study from Bulacan State University introduced a stand-alone
application of cost estimation for a two-storey building, coded with Visual Basic
Advance 6.0. The software requires the user to manually input the data in their respective
materials to ready for cost estimation. (Caburian, Morelos, & Rabadon, 2017)
The studies paved way for the group to arrive at an idea of integrating AutoCAD
floor plans to a cost estimating software specifically for one company to account their
own method of estimation. This study will also serve as an immersion for the target
industry.
In line with this, the group searched for a design and construction company that
has the need for a cost estimation software. The researchers found the RS Gravador
Builders since one of the researchers' hometown is Sta. Maria, Bulacan where the
company resides. RS Gravador Builders is a design and construction Class C company
with PCAB (Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board) License no. 40796 running for
two years now. The company was established on 2016 by the owner and founder, Engr.
Richard S. Gravador. Past projects of RS Gravador Builders include residential projects
in Sta. Maria Bulacan, Marilao, Bulacan and Gapan City, Nueva Ecija. The group
requested for the owner's permission to conduct the original study of the group that will
benefit both the researchers and the company. The owner approved the immersion and
requested for a complete estimation software in collaboration with our feature of floor
plan integration and their own estimating methods in lieu with using spreadsheets for
estimation as the company's existing technique.

1.2 Statement of the Problem
Upon the observation of the group on the company and the analysis of the
problem interview answers of the owner of the company, RS Gravador Builders, "By
how much will the software improve the speed of cost estimation in comparison with the
company's recent technique?”. Furthermore, the study will answer the following
problems as well: What are the capabilities and limitations of the proposed software?
1. What are the capabilities and limitations of the proposed software?
2. How accurate and reliable is the software comparing with the past finished
estimations of the company?
3. How user-friendly is the application’s graphical user interface?
4. How efficient and effective is the software for the company?
5. How frequent does the software get an error?
6. How much impact has the software done to RS Gravador Builders?
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The objective of the study is to develop a cost estimating software for RS
Gravador Builders that will improve the process of estimating from their previous
technique to a simpler and faster estimation by using AutoCAD floor plans for data like
area and volume. The use of floor plans for computation will increase the accuracy of the
estimated result compared to a manual entry of data which is prone to mistakes or
typographical errors. The overall objectives of this study include:

 To develop a faster estimating software comparing to their previous technique
(spreadsheets) that produces the final result of the whole project estimation
 To develop a floor plan based estimating software with the inclusion of the final
report for the estimation
 To established a comprehensive and easy-to-use cost estimating software for RS
Gravador Builders
 To develop a manual or a procedural guide for RS Gravador Builders on how to
use the software
1.4 Significance of the Study
For the Construction Company
The estimating software will increase the productivity of work of RS Gravador
Builders. The software will help the company to work accurately and precisely. The
delay of work will be minimized because of expedited progress and the excess time will
be used in other essential field of work in the construction. The software is less complex
to use than manual computation, manual data-entry program, and spreadsheets for it will
only need a .dwg file of the floor plan and with a simple step in the manual to be
followed, the software will produce the desired results of the company. The software will
lessen the inaccuracy of work due to the human error such as manual miscalculation,
typographical error etc.
For the Academe

The study will pave way for the students or even the professors to have an idea for
the further innovation of the estimating methodology of civil engineering construction.
The study will also serve as an inspiration for researchers to target specifics for their
feasibility studies to directly immerse and provide solution for a specific industry.
For the Industry
The study will serve as an immersion project that may benefit the whole industry
by starting to innovate methodologies and techniques of small units of the civil
engineering field, paving a way for the further expansion of the target company. This
study may also be an eye-opener for other small companies to step up the game and
provide healthy competitiveness on the industry thus leading to more new and innovative
ideas.
1.5 Scopes and Limitations
The study aims to propose a better alternative to the recent technique of
estimation of RS Gravador Builders in terms of the process’ efficiency. To this end, the
researchers will create an estimating software designed to achieve an accurate and
reliable estimation results in a short amount of time through the utilization of Visual
Basic for Applications 2017 (VBA) and integration to AutoCAD. The software will
produce the bill of materials as well as the total cost estimation of a project of RS
Gravador Builders. Further, the study will provide a case-to-case comparison between the
results of the estimating software and the previous finished estimations of the company in
order to check the performance of the software. In addition, the researchers will gather
evaluation results from the owner of the company since the owner is also the quantity
surveyor through the use of questionnaires and the aid of an exit interview. Evaluations
from at least ten (10) employees of RS Gravador Builders will be done too, to have
variance on the assessment of the program.
The study will focus solely on cost estimation for the company, RS Gravador
Builders, with their own methodology of cost estimation meaning, the company may or
may not follow the conventional way of cost estimation taught in schools. The
researchers have no right to control or modify their way of estimation and all the
functionalities of the software are requested by the owner himself. Moreover, the
researchers must not show how RS Gravador Builders estimate as per request of the
owner. The software will be for residential projects only and will not have limitations on
the number of floor levels, but the user must take into account that the software has a
limitation of a constant floor-to-floor height for all levels. Further, no other programming
language except for VBA will be utilized by the researchers in the creation of the
software. Lastly, the performance of the software will be tested and compared to the
previous cost estimations of the company of no more than five projects under the
assumption that five different projects will be enough to arrive at a conclusion.

CHAPTER 2
Review of Related Literature
2.1. Introduction
The literature and studies cited in this chapter will tackle the different concepts,
understandings, ideas, and techniques that will serve as the researcher’s guide in
developing the project. The main purpose of this review is to provide information
gathered from different studies that will give different guides and methods to the
designing process.
A construction cost estimate is a prediction of the total cost of a construction
project. Cost estimate involves collecting, analyzing, and summarizing all available data
for a specific project. A good estimate depends on many factors including time given to
the estimator, estimator’s experience, and a wide range of assumptions regarding the
project. (Smartsheet Inc., 2018)
Construction cost estimating is a complex process. It takes a long time to
complete an accurate estimate. With the aid of estimating software, it will be a huge help
for an estimator to approximate the cost of the project accurately in a short period of
time.
2.2. Related Theories and Literature
2.2.1. Roles of Construction Cost Estimation

Construction cost estimating is the process of forecasting the cost of building a
physical structure. Of course, builders and clients both worry about the financial impact
of cost overruns and failing to complete a project. That’s why they devote time and
effort in estimating how much a project will cost before deciding to move forward with
it. Clients considering large projects often seek multiple cost estimates, including those
prepared by contractors and those calculated by independent estimators. Some are
examples of role of estimation in construction:
 To get an idea how much the construction will cost.
 To arrange finances time to time.
 To segregate the money required for different materials, procedures
and labors.
 To determine a project’s scope and feasibility and to allocate budgets.
 Contractors use them when deciding whether to bid on a project.
 To ensure that a project meets financial feasibility and scope requirements.
 To manage the cash flows evenly and properly as per time and
requirement.
Overview of the Construction Estimation Process
 Commissioning a Project
 Determining Requirements
 Forming a Design Team
 Designing the Structure
 Bidding Based on the Scope of Work

 Signing the Contract
 Construction
 Close-Out
 Completion
Main Types of Construction Cost Estimate
 Level 1: Order of Magnitude Estimate: Made when project design has not
yet gotten under way, you only use an order of magnitude estimate to
determine the overall feasibility of a construction.
 Level 2: Schematic Design Estimate: An estimate produced in line with
schematic design
 Level 3: Design Development Estimate: An estimate made during the
design development phase
 Level 4: Construction Document Estimate: An estimate based on the
construction drawings and specifications
 Level 5: Bid Estimate: An estimate prepared by the contractor, based on
construction documents. The bid estimate is the basis of the bid price
offered to the customer. (Mahajan, 2017)
2.2.2. A Visual Approach to Construction Cost Estimating
Today, estimating technologies used by contractors vary tremendously from
contractor to contractor. Some might still be using simple tools such as paper and
pencil, while others are more technologically advanced and use computers for activities
such as quantity take off, calculations, and estimating report generation and use
digitizing tablets to transfer the dimensions of building elements from paper onto
computer. Spreadsheet templates are also widely used in estimating by contractors.
Database technology has also advanced greatly in recent years and has made it
possible to organize and rapidly retrieve a large amount of up-to-date data from remote
sources. Application of the latest relational databases has also become easier with the
latest data access languages and scripting technology.
Incorporating advance construction technology into practice can increase levels
of quality, efficiency, sustainability and value for money. The adoption of this
technology requires an appropriate design, commitment from the whole project team,
appropriate training and careful commissioning.
Advanced construction technologies are commonly described as (amongst
many others) including advanced forms of:
• Building Information Modelling (BIM)
• Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is one of such computerized systems
that facilitate for collecting information about buildings under construction on regular
basis. This system greatly enhances the communication among engineers and designers
that are working on the project. Computer Aided Designing (CAD) helps in designing
flawless buildings as through computer simulations problems can be found and
resolved before constructing buildings physically. (Samphaongoen, 2009)

2.2.3. Construction Cost Estimation Background and Purpose
Moreover, in line with the introduction of technology, commercial cost
estimating software applications were introduced to lend a helping hand to
estimators by using hard-coded formulas and data structures. Estimating
applications increase the speed and productivity of cost estimates, which is vital
in a construction firm. These programs are also more precise and eliminate the
variable of human error computations, as long as the user operates up-to-date cost
data. Here are the benefits of using a programmed cost estimating software:
 Cost-Related Inputs and Processes: This refers to the access to cost
databases, tax calculator, labor and materials costs, local contexts
adjustment of prices, standard-size room lists and activity lists, and
integration with accounting software.
 Generating Estimates: This refers to performing measurements and take-
offs, counting of objects, marking-up of construction drawings, and
generating bills of quantities.
 Documentation: This refers to the offered templates for proposals and
letters, as well as the generation of cost reports and storage of records.
(Smartsheet Inc., 2018)

2.3. Related Studies
2.3.1. Construction Cost Estimation System For B.F Management, Industrial and
Design Engineers
The reliability of project cost estimates at every stage in the project
development process is necessary for responsible fiscal management. Unreliable
cost estimates result in severe problem that often leads to poor budgeting
decisions that could impair effective use of department resources.
Construction estimation nowadays became automated. Before, estimation
in construction is in manual process which leads into miscalculation. This
problem occurs, because accuracy is not hundred percent sure, but several
construction companies are still exercising the traditional way of estimation.
Manual estimation is sometimes prone to inaccuracy. Miscalculation occurs given
the fact that all calculations are made manually by the estimator. In line with
manual process of estimation, high chance of nonuniform execution of estimation
formulas take place. In addition, the measuring of the dimension of plan itself that
is subjected in estimation may vary quite different from the original plan due to
the miscue of the person who is in-charge in estimation. In extent with these
unavoidable human errors and inaccuracy, the reliability of estimation has been
sacrificed. (Hagamann, 2013)

2.3.2. Estimating Software for a Two-Storey Building
On the year 2017, a study for the use of cost estimating program was
presented in Bulacan State University. The researchers created an application for
the automatic computation of concrete, masonry, rebar, roofing, and formworks
cost with the use of an inputted data or dimensions for the textbox of each
corresponding area of estimation. The researchers arrived at the following
findings:
 Functionality: Basing on evaluation results from professors and students,
the proposed system met their required function and produce accurate
results.
 Reliability: The program arrived at minimal error occurrences, and have
the ability to recover and resume in the event of failure and crashing.
 Usability: The program is user-friendly, easily learned by the user, and
graphically organized and attractive.
 Efficiency: The system responds quickly and effectively to the event of
the user, and the system was able to use its resources properly.
 Maintainability: The data and the system can be easily modified to
continue perform its function. The program is flexible when it comes to
compatibility of different operating systems, and can co-exist with other
software. (Caburian, Morelos, & Rabadon, 2017)

2.3.3. Software Development Estimation Using Parametric Cost Modeling
The objective of the thesis is the analyzation of software cost estimation model
COCOMO II, and the examination of the effects of cost model parameters on effort
and schedule of a software project. The research is based on the parametric cost
algorithm for COCOMO II, coupling historical data for the prediction of software
development cost and schedule. The result is comprised of cost drivers with design,
physical characteristics, and operational factors of the project.
The first step in conducting the analysis is the re-engineering and re-
implementing of the existing COCOMO II Post Architecture model as a modern
accessible application coded with Java. The next step is the development of profiles for
the recording of changes in effort and schedule estimates with respect to variations in
program size and complexity. The stage is accomplished through analyzation of
boundary values and partitioning of equivalence by graphical evaluation of correctness
and accuracy of the application.
The thesis focuses for the software development cost and schedule outcomes
influenced by the COCOMO II parameters on the software cycle phases. (Prabhu,
2016)
2.4. Assumptions
The researchers are able to produce a program in Visual Basic for Applications for the
cost estimation of RS Gravador Builders with the integration of floor plans from AutoCAD for
the needed parts. The software will also help improve the speed of cost estimation, helping the
user quickly create and manage detailed estimates, with lessen possibility of human error in
measurements and computations. In terms of interface and performance, the program will
provide the greatest level of flexibility, accuracy and confidence to the estimating process.
2.5. Definition of Variables
INDEPENDENT DEPENDENT EXTRANEOUS
 Floor Plan of a  Estimated Volume  Coded Formula of

Housing and Cost of the Software
Construction Concrete
Project with the  Accuracy and
Inclusion of  Estimated Area and Reliability of the
Structural Plan Cost of Masonry Software
 Height of Each  Estimated Labor  Methodology of the

Respective Parts of Cost Company
the Plan
 Estimated Total
 Cement Mixture Cost of the Whole
Proportion Project
 Unit Prices of
Materials
 Sub-contractor
Costs
 Profit Percentage
 Risk Percentage
 Overhead
Percentage
Table 2.1. Independent, Dependent, and Extraneous Variables of the Research
2.6. Theoretical Framework
This section represents the overview of the steps in the development of the
research. The study must characterize the proposed software and cite the possible
problems which may encounter in the development of the project.
The inputs necessary for the study are subdivided into two categories: knowledge
requirements, and software requirements. The knowledge requirements are consisting of VBA
Codes, Estimating Formulas and Procedure of RS Gravador Builders, Floor Plan Design
and Layering Requirements and AutoCAD Knowledge. The software requirements on the
other hand, are Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) and AutoCAD of any version with a
Visual Basic Advance Module of any year from 2010 or above.
The process part involves the following: planning, software development, testing,
comparison of results, maintenance, and evaluation. The process mentioned in this
section is just an overview of the flow of the research. A thorough explanation of the
processes will be done in the next chapter.
After the execution of the process, the researchers expect to have the output
namely, “Development of a Cost Estimating Software for RS Gravador Builders with the
Integration of Floor Plans from AutoCAD” which can be used for the calculation of the
total cost estimation of a chosen project of RS Gravador Builders.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
s
Knowledge Requirements Planning
 VBA for AutoCAD Software Development
Codes  Requirements
2.7. Summary of Related Theories, Literature and Studies
Cost estimation is one of the most important part of a construction process.
Contractors use cost estimates when deciding whether to bid in a project. However,
estimation in spreadsheets or manual-data entry program is time consuming and prone to
inaccuracy that may lead to cost overrun. Cost overrun is a major problem in construction
and sometimes results into cancellation of a project.
Any technology that could assist the process of construction cost estimating
would help reduce estimator’s work load. Computers are considered to be effective tools
for assisting estimators during the construction cost estimating process. Incorporating
advance construction technology into practice is a great solution to these difficulties
specially in accuracy, efficiency, and speed of the estimation process.

CHAPTER 3
Research Methodology
3.1. Introduction
The following chapter will discuss the research design, the testing & design
procedures, the evaluation procedures, and the evaluation criteria to be used in
conducting the whole research. This will include the methods of research, data gathering
instruments, sample population selected, and the statistical techniques used for the study.
3.2 Research Design Used
In the part of building and testing the software, the research design used is the
experimental method. Alterations of the graphical user interface and the underlying codes
to produce the desired results of the program are made in this section of the research.
After the completion of the software, a comparison with the past cost estimations of the
company was done to ensure reliability and accuracy. A comparison with the speed
between the existing technique of the company, and the proposed software computation
was also performed.
In the evaluation of the software, the research design used in this study is the
descriptive method. The researchers investigated in form of a survey using questionnaires
and an exit interview that the primary goal is to know the insights of the owner of RS
Gravador Builders with regards to the main objective of the study. This survey gave the
evaluation of the program in terms of its reliability, usability, efficiency, effectiveness,
and impact of the software.
3.3 Testing and Design Procedure
Before the creation of the software, the group teamed up with the owner of RS
Gravador Builders to gather the company’s methodologies and cost estimation
techniques. The researchers asked the owner of what other features of the software he
wants to include other than the integration of floor plans. All the data gathered by the
researchers were used in coding the software, all basing from the expertise of RS
Gravador Builders.
In the creation of the software, the programming language used is Visual Basic.
Visual Basic is a third-generation event-driven programming language and integrated
development environment (IDE) developed by Microsoft, in addition to Component
Object Model (COM) programming model, where programmers may build software
graphically. Visual Basic is intended to be easy to learn and operate. (Root & Sweeney,
2006) The group utilized Visual Basic Module 2017 to build the interface and code the
proposed cost estimation program with the integration of AutoCAD floor plans for RS
Gravador Builders.
After the completion of the software, the researchers tested and debugged the
software. The following figure is the flow chart of the program.

START
Open CAD File
Input Material Costs

Input Project Details
Input Height of Each Part
Select Class Mixture & Specs
Perform Concrete and Masonry

Estimation of R.S. Gravador
Builders
Output Concrete Cost

Output Masonry Cost
Output Labor Cost
Input Subcontractor Cost

Input Risk, Profit, and
Overhead Cost Percentage
A
Perform Total Estimation of R.S.

Gravador Builders
Display Total Estimation

Yes

Will the Choose Paper Size

user print
the report?
No Print Report

Yes Will the user

save the raw
data?
Save as Excel File

No

End
Figure 3.1 Flowchart of the Cost Estimating Software for RS Gravador Builders
The researchers tested the software using five (5) past projects of RS Gravador
Builders for ensuring the accuracy of the software by comparing the finished results of
cost estimation in the past. The group timed the software estimation and the existing
technique of the company for the comparison of speed in estimation with three (3) trials
each plan. Reliability was tested by running the software for three (3) trials under
constant inputs to know whether the software produces constant results After the testing,
the group let the owner and the selected workers test the software, and proceed to the
evaluation by answering questionnaires. The owner had an exclusive exit interview to
further account his perspective.

After gathering the document reviews from the researchers, a comparison again of
the results of the program with finished estimates of the company was done to check the
correctness of the values produced by the software. Moreover, three (3) trials of the
program was done and the data produced per trial will be recorded for the reliability of
the software. Speed, as mentioned earlier, was determined by the three (3) trial-
comparison of the time of the existing technique of cost estimation of the company
(spreadsheets) and software computation (integrated with AutoCAD) of each floor plan
respectively.
On the other hand, the gathered results of the survey underwent statistical method
of averaging for the determination of the performances in the required criteria of the
study which will be discussed in the latter part. Weighted mean was used to measure the
general response of the survey samples, whether the respondent agrees to a given
statement or not. The results from the interview underwent descriptive analysis to
summarize the point of view of the owner regarding the software.
3.5 Evaluation Criteria
The following are the criteria and specifications that the researchers used to
analyse and interpret the data gathered. These criteria helped the researchers to know if
the study achieve its objectives.
Accuracy was determined by comparing the produced values of cement, sand,
gravel, labor cost, and total cost of the software and the spreadsheet per project.
Percentage discrepancy with respect to the spreadsheet was calculated using the formula:
Software Value−Spreadsheet Value

Percent Discrepancy= x 100
Spreadsheet Value
The result of this formula was evaluated using the accepted values of discrepancy based
from the section of Precision and Accuracy in Software in the video training course of
Dan Moore, Introduction to Amazon Machine Learning (Moore, 2008). This is the scale
of the accepted values of discrepancies:
(%) DISCREPANCIES RATING
0.01 below EXCELLENT ACCURACY
0.02 – 0.1 VERY GOOD ACCURACY
0.11 – 0.2 SATISFACTORY ACCURACY
0.21 – 0.3 UNSATISFACTORY ACCURACY
0.3 – ABOVE POOR ACCURACY
Table 3.2 Discrepancy Scale by Dan Moore (2008)
Reliability was evaluated with two techniques: three-trial comparison, and survey
questionnaire. The researchers evaluated the trial results produced by the software and
compare it with each other. According to (Moore, 2008), the results must be constant
under constant inputs and conditions, thus having no discrepancies when it comes to the
reliability of the software. All values of the trials must be equal under the same inputs of
the user. The survey evaluation of reliability will be discussed on the latter part of this
section.
Maintainability was described by the counting of errors occurred in the debugging
of the program. Again, the results were evaluated using the accepted situations for
maintainability by Dan Moore from the part System Maintainability Analysis (Moore,
2008). List of acceptable errors include:
 Null Error – the division of a mathematical value input with the number
“0” leading to a result of an undefined number
 Stack Overflow – an error that arises when a variable has to have a value
but the user inputs are not enough to fill the variable. Synonymous in
nature with the null error
 Syntax Error – mistake in the spelling or parenthesis of an element in the
IDE (Integrated Development Environment). This error can be solved
immediately while debugging.
The speed comparison was determined by performing three (3) trials of cost
estimation for each plan using the existing technique of cost estimation of the company
(spreadsheets) and the software computation (integrated with AutoCAD). The three trials
for the five projects was performed and timed by only one of the researchers to eliminate
the effects of the difference in computer skills. The owner of RS Gravador Builders
cannot perform this speed comparison since three trials per plan using the spreadsheet
and the software will take a lot of his time and the owner has a strict and constrained
schedule during the time frame of this research.

Descriptive analysis was used on the interview from the owner to examine the
satisfaction of the owner regarding the software basing from the methodology and
technique of RS Gravador Builders. The interview questions are in line with the questions
in the survey questionnaire.
The questionnaire was also based on the USE Questionnaire for Likert Scale from
Measuring Software Experience with the USE by Arnold Lund. (Lund, 2001) The Likert
Scale was used to interpret items in the questionnaire. A Likert-type scale assumes that
the strength/intensity of experience is linear, i.e. on a continuum from strongly agree to
strongly disagree, and assumes that attitudes can be measured. Respondents may be
offered a choice of five to seven or even nine pre-coded responses with the neutral point
being neither agree nor disagree. (McLeod, 2008) The responses are based on the
feedbacks from the questionnaire of the owner who used the program. The range and
interpretation of the five-point scale are shown in Table 3.2.
Scale Range Interpretation
5 4.01 – 5.00 Excellent
4 3.01 – 4.00 Very Good
3 2.01 – 3.00 Satisfactory
2 1.01 – 2.00 Unsatisfactory
1 0.01 – 1.00 Poor
Table 3.3 The Five-Point Likert Scale

The following properties of the program are the ones to be described by the combined
results of the Descriptive Analysis and the Likert Scale:
 Accuracy - it is the degree to which the result using the software
reaches the exact value of the estimate
 Reliability - refers to the quality of being trustworthy or the
performance of the software if this program works consistently well
 Speed – this refers to the comparison of the time consumed of manual
and software computations
 Maintainability – this refers to the number of errors recorded and the
difficulty of the debugging of the software
 Usability – this refers to the ease and simplicity in the execution of the
program by the end-users
 Efficiency - it is a measure of how the software help the user in a time
and cost-effective manner
 Effectiveness - it is the extent to which the study achieves its
objectives and outcomes
 Impact - has the software contributed or likely to contribute to RS
Gravador Builders positively?

CHAPTER 4
Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data
This chapter will present the development of the cost estimation software for RS
Gravador Builders together with the analysis and interpretation of gathered evaluation
results from the users especially from the owner of RS Gravador Builders.
4.1 Project Technical Description
The software was created and developed using Visual Basic for Applications
Module 2017 for AutoCAD. The application is integrated with the CAD files (.dwg) and
can be readily loaded right away. The researchers have coded the way of cost estimation
of RS Gravador Builders basing from their past estimations of their own residential
projects. The software will produce the overall result of a cost estimation of a project that
will be readily presented to the client. The program can also provide a raw data of the
results for modifications of formats and storage.
The declared name of the software is “RS Gravador Estimate” with the extension
file name of .dvb. A DVB file is a VBA project created by AutoCAD VBA, a module
used to write applications for automating tasks in AutoCAD. It contains a Microsoft
Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) program, which is known as a macro that includes
components and code for automating a task (Sharpened Productions, 2019). The program
is exclusive only for RS Gravador Builders. The software is of RS Gravador Builders’
ownership but the company cannot sell and modify the program unless the researchers
will be the one to change its functionalities.

4.2 Project Functionalities
The project functionalities will be divided into two categories: capabilities and
limitations.
4.2.1 Capabilities
 Scan the drawing file and automatically computes for its area the
moment the software starts
 Offer the user has the ability to choose class mixtures, kilogram of
cement in bags, and thickness of plaster
 Perform the total cost estimation of RS Gravador Builders
including its subcontractor costs and labor costs.
 Generate a ready-to-print report of the cost estimation
 Store the raw data of the results of cost estimation
 Directly print the generated report with three common paper sizes
namely Letter Size (8.5” x 11”), A4 Size (8.27” x 11.69”), and
Long Size (8.5” x 13”)
4.2.2 Limitations
 Only performs RS Gravador Builders’ cost estimation and generate
how the company report in their own way
 The software does not cover concrete walls, only masonry walls
 Exclusively for residential projects only

 No limitations on floor levels, but take into account that the
program can only compute a constant floor-to-floor height per
level
 Cannot determine the cost by parts of the house, only the total cost
by parts of the structure per project
 The generated report cannot be edited but the user has the ability to
store a raw data of the results in MS Excel for their desired
different formatting
4.3 Project Structure Organization
The interface of RS Gravador estimate is mainly composed of text boxes, labels,
and command buttons. The software is programmed with the needed codes for the
automatization of scanning of the floor plans and for the cost estimation of RS Gravador
Builders. Here is a sample code of the program:
Private Sub priceupdatebut_Click()
response3 = MsgBox("Are you sure you want to update prices?", vbCritical + vbYesNo,
"Alert!")
If response3 = 6 Then
If Val(cementpricetextbox.Text) = 0 Or Val(sandpricetextbox.Text) = 0 Or
Val(gravelpricetextbox.Text) = 0 Or Val(chb1pricetextbox.Text) = 0 Or
Val(chb2pricetextbox.Text) = 0 Then
reponse = MsgBox("Please input all the prices", vbCritical, "Error!")
Else
cementprice = Val(cementpricetextbox.Text)
sandprice = Val(sandpricetextbox.Text)
gravelprice = Val(gravelpricetextbox.Text)
chb1price = Val(chb1pricetextbox.Text)
chb2price = Val(chb2pricetextbox.Text)
laborprice = Val(laborpricetextbox.Text)
Me.Hide
b_Estimate.show
End If
Else
MsgBox ("Prices not updated!")
End If
End Sub
Cost estimations per parts of the structure are organized and assigned to different
forms for the variance in class mixtures and other specifications.

There are four main categories of windows of RS Gravador Builders:
1. Initial Window – start-up screen of the program
2. Main Window – fill-up forms of the project details and additional costs, as
well as the selection buttons of the parts of the structure
 Pricelist Window – where the user may edit the prices of the
materials
3. Estimation Window – cost estimation window of the structures by the
inputting of height and selecting class mixtures and specifications
4. Summary Window – generated report of the total estimation of RS Gravador
Builders. Printing and Save buttons are also available in this window.
 Paper Sizes Window – where the user may select the paper sizes
for the generated report printing
Here are the following interfaces of each window of RS Gravador Estimate:
Figure 4.1 Initial Window

Figure 4.2 Main Window
Figure 4.3 Pricelist Window

Figure 4.4 Estimation Window (Slab)
Figure 4.5 Estimation Window (Column)

Figure 4.6 Estimation Window (Beam)
Figure 4.7 Estimation Window (Footings)

Figure 4.7 Estimation Window (Walls)

Figure 4.8 First Page Summary Window – Top

Figure 4.9 First Page Summary Window – Bottom

Figure 4.10 Second Page Summary Window –Top

Figure 4.11 Second Page Summary Window – Bottom

Figure 4.12 Third Page Summary Window –Top

Figure 4.13 Third Page Summary Window –Bottom
Figure 4.14 Paper Sizes Window

4.4 Project Results and Evaluation
4.4.1 Results
The results of the software for the summary of the total estimation of the
five (5) selected past plans of RS Gravador Builders are included in the
appendices section of the research. Further, the detailed User’s Guide/Manual’s
hardcopy is also included in the appendices. The following is the sample result of
the project entitled “Mahipon,, Gapan City, Nueva Ecija”.

4.4.2 Researchers’ Evaluation
The researchers simultaneously evaluated the software with the testing and
debugging of the program, all basing from the past projects of RS Gravador
Builders. These are the results of the evaluations:
A. Accuracy
The generated reports of the RS Gravador Estimate and the past
cost estimations of RS Gravador Builders using spreadsheets have
little and negligible differences with an acceptable percentage
discrepancy. The reason for this is the exact scanning of the areas of
the plans by RS Gravador Estimate while the spreadsheets have
manually entered data that are prone to rounding off of numbers. Here
are the tables of comparison for the total results generated by the
spreadsheet and software for each plan respectively:
2-Storey Residential Brgy. Balasing, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
QUANTITY PRICE/AMOUNT
Spreadsheet Software Spreadsheet Software
Cement 914 914 210,220.00 210,235.00
Sand 50.7 50.68 50740.80 50,683.37
Gravel 47.5 47.51 47528.1 47,513.32
CHB (4”) 976 975 9760.00 9,755.00
CHB (8”) 1817 1817 27,255.00 27,255.47

Labor 480,910.50 480,902.20
Cost
Total Cost 2,181,226.16 2,181,249.17
Table 4.1 Accuracy Comparison - Brgy. Balasing, Sta. Maria,
Bulacan
2,181,249.17−2,181,226.16
Percent Discrepancy= x 100=0.001 %
2,181,226.16
Mahipon, Gapan City, Nueva Ecija
Cement 3907 3907 898,840.0 898,708
Sand 217 216.52 217,022.80 216,522.59
Gravel 200 200 200,044.9 199,999.98
CHB 6151 6150 61,510.00 61,503.93
(4”)
CHB 6989 6989 104,835.00 104,837.01
(8”)
Labor 2,709,350.63 2,710,196.45
Cost
Total 20,053,255.3 20,053,444.69
Cost 7
Table 4.2 Accuracy Comparison - Mahipon, Gapan City, Nueva Ecija
20,053,444.69−20,053,255.37
20,053,255.37
San Vicente, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
Cement 680 679 156309.30 156,282
Sand 37.6 37.65 37623.00 37,646.84
Gravel 27.7 27.75 27704.30 27,750.81
CHB (4”) 692 691 6920.00 6,906.37
CHB (8”) 1681 1681 25215.00 25,220.63
Labor 316,124.65 316,065.59
Cost
Total Cost 1,642,107.09 1,642,079.10
Table 4.3 Accuracy Comparison - San Vicente, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
1,642,079.10−1,642,107.09
1,642,107.09
Sitio Luwasan, Balasing Sta. Maria, Bulacan
Spreadshee Software Spreadsheet Software
Cement 860 860 197,800 197,798
Sand 48 47.65 47,971.10 47,652.46
Gravel 34.1 34.18 34,154.30 34,177.30
CHB (4”) 543 542 5430.00 5,420.35
CHB (8”) 2320 2319 34,800.00 34,777.88
Labor 396,115.61 396,227.73
Cost
Total Cost 2,411,321.18 2,411,070.73
Table 4.4 Accuracy Comparison - Sitio Luwasan, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
2,411,070.73−2,411,321.18
2,411,321.18
Town and Country, Marilao, Bulacan
Cement 661 662 152030 152,204
Sand 37.0 36.67 37043.50 36,668.61
Gravel 31.9 31.90 31898.90 31,902.62
CHB (4”) 920 920 9200 9,200.00
CHB (8”) 1322 1321 19830 19,818.75

Labor 350,909.07 350,912.75
Cost
Total Cost 1,708,350.87 1,708,114.84
Table 4.5 Accuracy Comparison - Town and Country, Marilao,
Bulacan
1,708,114.84−1,708,350.87
Percent Discrepancy= x 100=0.01%
1,708,350.87
0.001 (2 )+ 0.002+ 0.01(2)

Average Discrepancy= =0.005 %
5
Basing from the criteria of (Moore, 2008) for the accuracy in
software, the average discrepancy using software computation of the
five projects is acceptable and has a rating of Excellent Accuracy.
B. Reliability
The testing of the software with the five past projects of RS
Gravador Builders produced same and consistent result through every
trial under constant conditions. The researchers conducted three (3)
trials for each plan.

Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3
Cement 197,798 197,798 197,798
Sand 47,652.46 47,652.46 47,652.46
Gravel 34,177.30 34,177.30 34,177.30
CHB (4”) 5,420.35 5,420.35 5,420.35
CHB (8”) 34,777.88 34,777.88 34,777.88
Labor Cost 480,902.20 480,902.20 480,902.20
Total Cost 2,181,249.17 2,181,249.17 2,181,249.17
Table 4.6 Reliability Comparison - Brgy. Balasing, Sta. Maria,
Bulacan
Cement 898,708 898,708 898,708
Sand 216,522.59 216,522.59 216,522.59
Gravel 199,999.98 199,999.98 199,999.98
CHB (4”) 61,503.93 61,503.93 61,503.93
CHB (8”) 104,837.01 104,837.01 104,837.01
Labor Cost 2,710,196.45 2,710,196.45 2,710,196.45
Total Cost 20,053,444.69 20,053,444.69 20,053,444.69
Table 4.7 Reliability Comparison - Mahipon, Gapan City, Nueva
Ecija
Cement 156,282 156,282 156,282
Sand 37,646.84 37,646.84 37,646.84
Gravel 27,750.81 27,750.81 27,750.81
CHB (4”) 6,906.37 6,906.37 6,906.37
CHB (8”) 25,220.63 25,220.63 25,220.63
Labor Cost 316,065.59 316,065.59 316,065.59
Total Cost 1,642,079.10 1,642,079.10 1,642,079.10
Table 4.8 Reliability Comparison - San Vicente, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
Cement 197,798 197,798 197,798
Sand 47,652.46 47,652.46 47,652.46
Gravel 34,177.30 34,177.30 34,177.30
CHB (4”) 5,420.35 5,420.35 5,420.35
CHB (8”) 34,777.88 34,777.88 34,777.88
Labor Cost 396,227.73 396,227.73 396,227.73
Total Cost 2,411,070.73 2,411,070.73 2,411,070.73

Table 4.9 Reliability Comparison - Sitio Luwasan, Sta. Maria,
Bulacan
Cement 152,204 152,204 152,204
Sand 36,668.61 36,668.61 36,668.61
Gravel 31,902.62 31,902.62 31,902.62
CHB (4”) 9,200.00 9,200.00 9,200.00
CHB (8”) 19,818.75 19,818.75 19,818.75
Labor Cost 350,912.75 350,912.75 350,912.75
Total Cost 1,708,114.84 1,708,114.84 1,708,114.84
Table 4.10 Reliability Comparison - Town and Country, Marilao,
Bulacan
Basing from Table 4.5 to Table 4.10, the software produces
constant results under constant inputs and conditions of the five (5)
projects of RS Gravador Builders. No discrepancies occurred and the
program can be tagged as reliable.
C. Speed
The researchers have conducted three (3) trials for each plan using
the spreadsheet of RS Gravador Builders versus using the developed
software. Here are the following results:
TIME OF ESTIMATION (Minutes)
Using Using the Difference in
Spreadsheet Software Minutes
Trial 1 68.05 3.16 64.89
Trial 2 67.4 3.01 64.39
Trial 3 67.2 3.04 64.16
AVERAGE: 64.48
Table 4.11 Speed Comparison - Brgy. Balasing, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
Trial 1 192.15 2.99 189.16
Trial 2 192.06 2.93 189.13
Trial 3 191.96 2.97 188.99
AVERAGE: 189.09
Table 4.12 Speed Comparison - Mahipon, Gapan City, Nueva Ecija
Trial 1 74.93 2.64 72.29
Trial 2 74.88 2.63 72.25
Trial 3 74.82 2.6 72.22
AVERAGE: 72.25
Table 4.13 Speed Comparison - San Vicente, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
Trial 1 90.95 2.63 88.32
Trial 2 90.5 2.43 88.07
Trial 3 90.55 2.65 87.90
AVERAGE: 88.10
Table 4.14 Speed Comparison - Sitio Luwasan, Sta. Maria, Bulacan

Trial 1 56.56 2.61 53.95
Trial 2 56.45 2.57 53.88
Trial 3 56.48 2.59 53.89
AVERAGE: 53.91
Table 4.15 Speed Comparison - Town and Country, Marilao, Bulacan
Basing from Table 4.11 to Table 4.15, the computation of the
plans using the spreadsheet and the program produces a significant
difference in the time of estimation and the variance increases as the
size of the plan increases. Aside from that, the speeds in estimation
using the spreadsheet varies with the size of the floor area or the
project while the speeds in estimation using the software are precise
from each other regardless of the floor area or the project.
D. Maintainability
The software had minimal errors in the development but the
researchers make sure to debug it all. RS Gravador Estimate is
debugged thoroughly. The only error is the null error in the case of a
division of a “0”, which mathematically speaking, produces an
undefined result thus the software is maintainable and usable.
4.4.3 Owner and Workers’ Evaluation
The evaluation of the workers is collected through the use of survey
questionnaires while the evaluation of the owner, Engr. Richard S. Gravador, is
gathered through the use of survey questionnaires also, as well as through an exit
interview. The results of the evaluation are interpreted using the analyzation
method of the Five-Point Likert Scale. Here are the results of the survey:
Reliability P U S VG E MEAN INTERPRETATION
The software
is
performing
0 0 0 1 10 4.91 EXCELLENT
consistently
well.
There is no
different
result
0 0 0 3 8 4.73 EXCELLENT
produced
under
constant
conditions.
The software
produces
consistent
0 0 0 2 9 4.82 EXCELLENT
and stable
results.
The program
yields the
same results
0 0 0 3 8 4.73 EXCELLENT
on repeated
trials.
I am
confident
and assured
that the
0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
program
gives me
unvarying
results
respectively.
I can use the
software 0 0 0 2 9 4.82 EXCELLENT
successfully
every time.
OVERALL
WEIGHTE 4.78 EXCELLENT
D MEAN
Table 4.16 Reliability Survey Evaluation Results
USABILITY P U S VG E MEAN INTERPRETATION
The software
is easy to use. 0 0 0 2 9 4.82 EXCELLENT
The software
is flexible 0 0 0 6 5 4.45 EXCELLENT
Using the
software is 0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
effortless.
I don't notice
any
inconsistencies
0 0 0 2 9 4.82 EXCELLENT
as I use the
software.
I can recover
from mistakes 0 0 0 3 8 4.73 EXCELLENT
quickly and
easily.
I can use the
software
successfully
0 0 0 3 8 4.73 EXCELLENT
every time.
Both
occasional and
regular users
0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
would like the
software.
I easily
remember how 0 0 0 3 8 4.73 EXCELLENT
to use the
software.
I learned to
use it quickly. 0 0 0 6 5 4.45 EXCELLENT
I easily
remember how 0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
to use it.
It is easy to
learn to use it. 0 0 0 3 8 4.73 EXCELLENT
I quickly
became 0 0 0 6 5 4.45 EXCELLENT
skillful with it.
OVERALL
WEIGHTED 4.65 EXCELLENT
MEAN
Table 4.17 Usability Survey Evaluation Results
EFFICIENCY P U S VG E MEAN INTERPRETATION

AND
EFFECTIVENESS
The software
requires the fewest
steps possible to
0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
accomplish what I
want to do with the
software.
The software gives
me the required 0 0 0 3 8 4.73 EXCELLENT
product in a short
period of time.
The software does
not waste time and 0 0 0 1 10 4.91 EXCELLENT
effort.
The software is
performing in the 0 0 0 1 10 4.91 EXCELLENT
best possible
manner.
The purpose of the
software is served. 0 0 0 1 10 4.91 EXCELLENT
I get what the

software intended to 0 0 0 1 10 4.91 EXCELLENT
give.
It helps me be more
effective. 0 0 0 0 11 5.00 EXCELLENT
The software
produced my 0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
desired result.
The software
provided extra time
for the processes of
0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
the company.
It helps me be more
productive. 0 0 0 2 9 4.82 EXCELLENT
OVERALL
MEAN
Table 4.18 Efficiency and Effectiveness Survey Evaluation Results
IMPACT P U S VG E MEAN INTERPRETATION
The software
speeds up the 0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
works of the
company.
The software
helped greatly in
the efficiency
0 0 0 2 9 4.82 EXCELLENT
and
effectiveness of
the company
I was satisfied
on using the 0 0 0 4 7 4.64 EXCELLENT
software.
The software
paved way for 0 0 0 3 8 4.73 EXCELLENT
the development
of the company.
I will adapt the
software for the 0 0 0 6 5 4.45 EXCELLENT
company.
I would
recommend it to 0 0 0 6 5 4.45 EXCELLENT
a friend.
I feel I need to
have it. 0 0 0 2 9 4.82 EXCELLENT
OVERALL
MEAN
Table 4.19 Impact Survey Evaluation Results
The above tables of data and the exit interview of the owner
produce the following rating for each property and the interpretation
are based from the USE Questionnaire (Lund, 2001):
A. Reliability – Excellent. The software is reliable and produces constant
results.
B. Usability – Excellent. The software is user-friendly, easy-to-use, and
easy to be learned.
C. Efficiency – Excellent. The workers and the owner are able to
accomplish something with the least waste of time and effort.
D. Effectiveness – Excellent. The program performed its declared
functions well and effectively.
E. Impact – Excellent. The program has exerted an influence on the
owner to adapt the software to increase the productivity of RS
Gravador Builders.
CHAPTER 5
Summary of Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations
This chapter presents the summary of the findings based on the gathered, and
analysed data from the previous chapter. This section also contains the concluded
interpretation of the findings and the recommendations of the researchers for the further
improvement and innovation of the program in the near future.
5.1 Summary of Findings
Based on the results of the evaluation, the following findings were derived.
1. Accuracy
- From the comparison of the results using the program and the company’s
spreadsheet, the researchers found an acceptable discrepancy of 0.005%
between the two methods of estimation.
2. Reliability
- From the comparison of the results using the program and the company’s
spreadsheet, the calculations and results of the measurement and estimation
are consistent and reliable. Based on the answers of the owner and the workers
who uses the program in the Likert scale, it clearly says that they strongly
agree that the system is consistent in performing the correct calculations of
estimation.
3. Speed
- From the comparison of the time consumed of estimating using the company’s
spreadsheet and the program, the researchers found that it is faster to estimate
using the software than using the spreadsheet.
4. Maintainability
- Based on the result of the evaluation of the researchers, the system has no
error occurrences and also have the ability to resume in case of failure.
5. Usability
- Based on the result of the evaluation, the workers said that the program is
user-friendly and can be easily learned.
6. Efficiency
- From the result of the Likert scale, it says that the program was able to use the
resource properly and can achieve all the required output using the least
amount of input.
7. Effectiveness
- Based on the answers of the workers, it says that the objectives of the program
are achieved and the targeted problems are solved.
8. Impact
- According to the owner, they might use the program in replacement to the
spreadsheet for faster and more accurate estimation.

5.2 Conclusions
Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions are drawn:
1. The program is considerably faster comparing to the previous techniques of
RS Gravador Builders which is the spreadsheet with an average of 2-3
minutes. The difference in minutes between the spreadsheet and the software
vary depending on the size. As the size increases, the difference in minutes
also increases.
2. The program arrived with no errors except when dividing a “0” number.
3. The program produced accurate results with an acceptable discrepancy of
0.005% in comparison with the past estimation spreadsheets of RS Gravador
Builders.
4. The software is reliable and generates constant results under constant
conditions and inputs of the user.
5. The software is user-friendly and easily learned by the users especially with
the help of the produced user manual available in softcopy and hardcopy.
6. Basing on the results from the survey, the researchers then conclude that the
owner and his workers are satisfied to the accuracy, reliability, efficiency and
effectiveness of the program.
7. The program influenced the owner and the workers in a positive way making
the owner consider adapting the software for the RS Gravador Builders.
5.3 Recommendations
Based on the outcome and conclusions presented, the following recommendations
are suggested for further research:
1. Improving the software from being limited to a 2D structure, a 3D structure
may do so, to lessen the data to be encoded, to even compute a complex or
irregular structure.
2. Addition of computation of rebars and formworks for a more versatile
program which can be used by any firm eliminating the limit of a concrete and
masonry company only.
3. Addition of database structure for the saving option in the software without
the need of exporting to Microsoft Excel.

REFERENCES
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Storey Building. Malolos.
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Retrieved from Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.:
https://www.britannica.com/technology/building-construction#ref59309
Degenaar, H. (2013, February 18). The Evolution of Cost Estimating. Retrieved from
Construction Today: http://www.construction-today.com/sections/columns/1059-
the-evolution-of-cost-estimating
Hagamann, D. (2013). Construction Cost Estimation System for B.F. Management,
Industrial and Design Engineers. Manila, Philippines: University of the East.
Lund, A. M. (2001). Measuring Usability with the USE Questionnaire. STC Usability
SIG Newsletter, 8:2.
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Quora: https://www.quora.com/Why-is-estimating-important-in-construction
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https://www.simplypsychology.org/likert-scale.html
Moore, D. (Director). (2008). Introduction to Amazon Machine Learning [Motion
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Prabhu, P. J. (2016). Software Development Estimation Using Parametric Cost Modeling
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Appendices
APPENDIX A – INTERVIEWS WITH ENGR. RICHARD S. GRAVADOR –
OWNER OF RS GRAVADOR BUILDERS

Problem Identification Interview
Interviewee: Engr. Richard S. Gravador of RS Gravador Builders
Interviewer: Jeremy B. Delos Santos
Date and Time: November 17, 2018 2:03pm
Place: #311 Balasing, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
1. Who perform the cost estimating process after the designing of the floor plans in
your company?
 Ako lang din ang nageestimate ng mga project namin since maliit palang
kami na kumpanya.
2. In the part of construction, does your company perform all the parts of the
project?
 Ang samin lang ay yung mga ginagamitan ng konkreto. Nagsusubcon
nalang kami sa mga bakal, electrical, porma dahil mas nakakatipid kami
dito at bawas na rin Gawain
3. What are the problems of your company regarding the cost estimation process of
housing projects?
 Ang mga nakikita kong pinakaproblema dito is yung medyo mabagal na
pag estimate. Mas maganda kasi na mabilis na makapagestimate para
makita agad ng client namin yung kailangan nilang bayaran at idown
[downpayment]. Para narin makapaghanda kami agad ng mga materyales
at pera kung saka sakali.

4. Does an error in estimation affect your overall performance as a company? In
what ways?
 Yes. Pwedeng makaapekto ito sa maling paghingi namin ng downpayment
galing sa mga kliyente. Pwede rin kaming malugi sa pagbili ng materyales
at iyon ang pinakainiingatan namin dahil wala kaming maraming
pampaluwal since maliit palang ang kumpanya namin.
5. Why don't you use softwares for estimating?
 Gumagamit naman ako ng excel sa computer pero hindi yung iba na
ginagamit na yan sa computer medyo may kamahalan kasi yan (price).
Mahirap nang ilagay sa budget namin yung pagbayad sa lisensya ng mga
yan. At isa pa, may sarili kaming pamamaraan ng pageestimate. Mahirap
din namang maghire pa kami (IT) ng gagawa para dyan kasi maliit lang
kami na kumpanya.
6. But do you think softwares can be of great help?
 I think oo makakatulong naman yun since mapapabilis yung estimating
namin at maganda rin kung nakabase sa pamamaraan namin. Malaking
kaluwagan din sakin tutal ako naman yung nageestimate nung mga
projects.
Exit Interview
Interviewee: Engr. Richard S. Gravador of RS Gravador Builders
Interviewer: Jeremy B. Delos Santos
Date and Time: March 23, 2019 1:15 pm
Place: #311 Balasing, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
1. Does the program produce constant results, meaning is it reliable in your opinion?
 Yes. Inulit-ulit ko yung estimation and cinompare ko talaga siya sa
mga past projects, and I can say that it is reliable and accurate.
2. Do you trust that the software will generate accurate results all the time?
 Prior sa una kong sagot, yes since tested ko na siya and confident ako
sa mga nilalabas niyang results.
3. Do you have trouble learning the software?
 No. Madali naman siyang gamitin at direct to the point ang mga labels
ng buttons at fields.
4. What helped you in learning the software?
 Madali lang naman talaga siya matutuhan kahit walang magtuturo as
long as computer literate ka. Pero, I scanned the user guide provided at
nakita ko naman na detailed at informative ito.
5. Does the software give the results you needed?
 Yes, ayos na ayos siya sa pagbibigay ng results at ang maganda pa don
ay may generated report na agad. Ready to print, ready to store.

6. Does the program decrease your effort and maximize your time and productivity?
 Yes. Since di ko na kailangang magmeasure measure kada part katulad
ng spreadsheet. At ready to print na rin nga yung report, pirma ko
nalang ang kulang.
7. Will you consider replacing your existing method of spreadsheets with the RS
Gravador Estimate?
 Yes, for residential projects lang syempre since it is your limitation.
Siguro kung magdedevelop ulit kayo para sa ‘kin pwede nyo na ring
presyuhan since tested na rin kayo sa ‘kin.
8. Will you recommend your sister companies to have this kind of investment?
 Yes. Magandang investment to at sa tingin ko makakatulong din ito sa
kanila katulad ng tulong na nabigay sa 'kin. Pero in the meantime, sana
ako lang muna may ganito para angat ang kumpanya ko.
APPENDIX B – SOFTWARE COST ESTIMATION REPORTS (FIVE (5)
RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS)
APPENDIX C – COST ESTIMATION REPORTS FROM RS GRAVADOR
BUILDERS (FIVE (5) RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS)

APPENDIX D – FLOOR PLANS AND STRUCTURAL PLANS (FIVE (5) RS
GRAVADOR BUILDERS’ RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS)

APPENDIX E – COMPANY PROFILE

APPENDIX F – SURVEY FORMS INCLUDING BLANK FORM (FOR
THE OWNER AND WORKERS OF RS GRAVADOR BUILDERS)

BULACAN STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
City of Malolos, Bulacan
Development of a Cost Estimating Software for RS Gravador Builders with the
Integration of Floor Plans from AutoCAD
SURVEY FORM
Based on the USE Questionnaire of Arnold M. Lund (2001)
Name: _______________________________________(Optional) Age: _____
Software Performance:
Directions: Rate the following performance of the Cost Estimating Software in each
category. Put a check mark on the column of the desired grade.
1- Poor
2-Unsatisfactory
3-Satisfactory
4-Very Good
5- Excellent
RELIABILITY 1 2 3 4 5
The software is performing consistently well.
There is no different result produced under constant conditions.
The software produces consistent and stable results.
The program yields the same results on repeated trials.
I am confident and assured that the program gives me unvarying
results respectively.
I can use the software successfully every time.
USABILITY 1 2 3 4 5
The software is easy to use.
The software is flexible
Using the software is effortless.
I don't notice any inconsistencies as I use the software.
I can recover from mistakes quickly and easily.
I can use the software successfully every time.
Both occasional and regular users would like the software.
I easily remember how to use the software.
I learned to use it quickly.
I easily remember how to use it.
It is easy to learn to use it.
I quickly became skillful with it.
EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS 1 2 3 4 5

The software requires the fewest steps possible to accomplish
what I want to do with the software.
The software gives me the required product in a short period of
time.
The software does not waste time and effort.
The software is performing in the best possible manner.

The purpose of the software is served.
I get what the software intended to give.
It helps me be more effective.
The software produced my desired result.
The software provided extra time for the processes of the
company.
It helps me be more productive.
IMPACT 1 2 3 4 5
The software speeds up the works of the company.
The software helped greatly in the efficiency and effectiveness
of the company
I was satisfied on using the software.
The software paved way for the development of the company.
I will adapt the software for the company.
I would recommend it to a friend.
I feel I need to have it.
Recommendations:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
APPENDIX G – SOFTWARE USER GUIDE / PROCEDURAL MANUAL

SOFTWARE USER
GUIDE
RS GRAVADOR ESTIMATE
(A Cost Estimating and Report Generating
Software of RS Gravador Builders)
I. Parts of the Software
Initial Window:
Close Button
Start Button
Main Window:
Pricelist Button Parts Selection Help Button

Project Details Form
Exit Button Total Summary Additional Costs Reset

Button Fill-up Form Button
Pricelist Window:
Price Fill-up Forms
Exit Button Default Button Reset Button Update Button
Estimation Window:
Height Text-
box Volume Display
Class Mixture Cement in Bag

Selection Selection
Bill of
Materials
Display
Total Price
Display
Cancel Button Reset Button Compute Button Sub Summary

Area Display
Plaster Thickness Selection

Summary Window:
Scroll Bar
Next Page Button

Back Button
Previous Button
Exit Button Save Button Print button

Paper Sizes Window:
II. Functions of the Windows and its Components
Windows:
a. Initial Window – start-up screen of the program

b. Main Window – fill-up forms of the project details and additional costs, as well
as the selection buttons of the parts of the structure
a. Pricelist Window – where the user may edit the prices of the materials
c. Estimation Window – estimation window of the structures by the inputting of
height and selecting class mixtures and specifications
d. Summary Window – generated report of the total estimation of RS Gravador
Builders. Printing and Save buttons are also available in this window.
a. Paper Sizes Window – where the user may select the paper sizes for the
generated report printing
Buttons:
a) Close Button – closes the active window

b) Start Button – starts the program and direct to the main window
c) Pricelist Button – opens the pricelist window
d) Project Details Form – where the user will input the project name, project
owner, project location, percent down payment, number of pays, and pay until
(number of days)
e) Parts Selection – selection of the parts of the structure namely, slab, column,
beam, footings, and walls
f) Help Button – opens the user guide for the application
g) Reset Button – resets all values in the form
h) Total Summary Button – displays the total summary of the project and generate
its report
i) Additional Costs Fill-Up Form – where the user will select a labor cost and input
subcontractor costs, risk percentage, overhead percentage, and profit
percentage
j) Price Fill-Up Forms – where the user will input the prices of the materials
k) Exit Button (Pricelist) – exits the pricelist window to the main window
l) Default Button – inputs the default prices of the materials
m) Update Button – updates the prices for the materials
n) Height Textbox – where the user will input the height for the computation of the
volume and/or area of the selected part of the structure
o) Class Mixture Selection – where the user will select from Class AA, A, B, C, or D
p) Volume Display – displays the total volume of the selected part
q) Cement in Bag Selection – where the user will select from 40 kg or 50 kg cement
in bag
r) Area Display – displays the total area of the selected part
s) Plaster Thickness Selection – where the user will select from 8, 12, 16, 20, or 25
mm thickness of plaster
t) Bill of Materials Display – displays the quantity and price of each material
u) Cancel Button – exits the form to the main window
v) Compute Button – performs the estimation of RS Gravador Builders
w) Sub Summary Button – adds the results per each part to the total summary
x) Total Price Display – displays the total price of the selected part
y) Scroll Bar – allows the user to scroll and view the lower parts of the window
z) Back Button – returns the program to the main window
aa) Next Page Button – turns the window to the next page
bb) Previous Page Button – returns the window to the previous page
cc) Save Button – saves the generated report as a raw file (without formatting) in
MS Excel
dd) Print Button – prints the generated report of the program
ee) Exit Button (Main and Summary) – ends the program completely
III. Procedure
1. Click the start button on start-up to begin.
2. Click on the Edit Pricelist button to update the prices of your materials.
a. Enter your desired prices on each respective box. You may click the Default
button to automatically add the default prices of the materials.
b. Click update to save your prices.
i. You can click the reset button to clear your changes if you had a mistake
or not satisfied with your input.
c. Click the exit button to after saving your changes. You will be redirected again to
the main window.
3. Fill up the project details of your work.
a. Please refrain from using special characters and letters on the % Down payment
and Number of Payments section. This may cause a miscalculation in your work.
4. After that, select one of the structures to be computed. You will be directed to their
respective windows.
5. 5.1 For Concrete Structures
a. Input the height of the selected part.
b. Select Class mixture.
c. Select the quantity of cement in bag.
d. Click compute button if you are done.
e. Click the Add to Summary button to store the computed values for later viewing
and saving.
f. Click Cancel button after securing your data as you wish. You will be redirected
to the main window.
5.2 For Masonry:
a. Input the height of the walls.

b. Select class mixture and quantity of cement in bag of lintel beams.
c. Select class mixture of cement mortar.
d. Select class mixture and thickness of plaster.
e. Click compute button if you are done.
f. Click the Add to Summary button to store the computed values for later viewing
and saving.
g. Click Cancel button after securing your data as you wish. You will be redirected
to the main window.
6. Pick a productivity rate for your labor cost.
a. Red - low productivity
b. Orange - medium productivity
c. Green - high productivity
7. Fill up the remaining fields. Please refrain from using special characters and letters in the
remaining areas to avoid miscalculations.
8. Click on the Display Total Summary Button on the bottom right corner of your window.
a. You may click on the Reset All Data button on the bottom left corner if you are
not satisfied with your input.
9. Review your generated summary.
10. On the last page, you have the choice of printing, saving, or both.
10.1 Printing
a. Click the Print button on the right side of the window.

b. Select your paper size and make sure a printer is connected.
c. The program will directly print your summary.
10.2 Saving
a. Click the Save as Excel button on the center of the window.

b. MS Excel will open with your new workbook and data from your estimate on the
software, and ready to save.
*Please take note that the generated sheets are raw, thus lacking aesthetic formatting
because this is for database
IV. Limitations of the Software

1. The software is good only for the same floor-to-floor height each level.
2. Data exported on excel are raw data, thus having no formulas and purposely done for
storing only.
3. The software only caters 2 types of CHB. Any other type present in a floor plan will
result to a miscalculation.
4. The software is designed solely on the existing CAD layering of RS Gravador Builders.
5. This software is exclusively for RS Gravador Builders ONLY. Other plans from other
companies are not solvable by this software.
APPENDIX H – LETTER OF REQUEST TO RS GRAVADOR BUILDERS

APPENDIX I – NOTICE OF ACCEPTANCE

APPENDIX J – MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT

APPENDIX K – CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION


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COST ESTIMATING SOFTWARE FOR RS GRAVADOR BUILDERS

Background of the Study

Through the years, the construction industry is constantly enhancing and

upgrading in terms of methodologies, techniques, materials used, requirements, etc. to

2014) In spite of the growing productivity, construction project estimating, a concept as

construction project. (Degenaar, 2013)

Construction cost estimating is the identification and compilation of the needed

With the continuous innovation of estimation and the introduction of technology

Moreover, a recent study from Bulacan State University introduced a stand-alone

company resides. RS Gravador Builders is a design and construction Class C company

Richard S. Gravador. Past projects of RS Gravador Builders include residential projects

estimation as the company's existing technique.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

1. What are the capabilities and limitations of the proposed software?

estimations of the company?

3. How user-friendly is the application’s graphical user interface?

4. How efficient and effective is the software for the company?

5. How frequent does the software get an error?

6. How much impact has the software done to RS Gravador Builders?

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The objective of the study is to develop a cost estimating software for RS

estimated result compared to a manual entry of data which is prone to mistakes or

typographical errors. The overall objectives of this study include:

 To develop a faster estimating software comparing to their previous technique

report for the estimation

 To established a comprehensive and easy-to-use cost estimating software for RS

 To develop a manual or a procedural guide for RS Gravador Builders on how to

use the software

1.4 Significance of the Study

For the Construction Company

The estimating software will increase the productivity of work of RS Gravador

typographical error etc.

For the Academe

the further innovation of the estimating methodology of civil engineering construction.

For the Industry

by starting to innovate methodologies and techniques of small units of the civil

1.5 Scopes and Limitations

The study aims to propose a better alternative to the recent technique of

researchers will create an estimating software designed to achieve an accurate and

variance on the assessment of the program.

assumption that five different projects will be enough to arrive at a conclusion.

Review of Related Literature

A construction cost estimate is a prediction of the total cost of a construction

project. (Smartsheet Inc., 2018)

Construction cost estimating is a complex process. It takes a long time to

2.2. Related Theories and Literature

2.2.1. Roles of Construction Cost Estimation

Construction cost estimating is the process of forecasting the cost of building a

prepared by contractors and those calculated by independent estimators. Some are

examples of role of estimation in construction:

 To get an idea how much the construction will cost.

 To arrange finances time to time.

 To segregate the money required for different materials, procedures

 To determine a project’s scope and feasibility and to allocate budgets.

 Contractors use them when deciding whether to bid on a project.

 To ensure that a project meets financial feasibility and scope requirements.

Overview of the Construction Estimation Process

 Forming a Design Team

 Designing the Structure

 Bidding Based on the Scope of Work