Web-Based Architecture for Automating Quantity Surveying Construction Cost Calculation

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

- The authors need to include a research methodology section, which describes briefly the conducted research activities to achieve the objective of this research.

- The introduction section needs to be reduced. The authors need to restructure the manuscript, by moving the previously conducted, and reported studies to a new section titled: previous studies.

- Figure 2 needs to be corrected. Some text in missing in the rectangles that identify the parameters, for example “cost of operation of ??”.

- Figures 4, 8, 9, 10 and 11 need to be enlarged. Currently, they are not readable.

- The authors need to provide a description of the limitations of the developed application, and how these limitations can be resolved.

Author Response

Dear Editor,

We have revised our article according to the editors and the four reviewer’s comments without any exception. However, below is the detailed response to the received comments. We want to take this opportunity to thank the editorial office and the reviewers for their valuable comments and informative feedback, which enrich the article. Also, we convey our thanks for the English language editing office MDPI for proofreading this article.

Note: the remarks of the reviewers are colored black while the authors respond highlighted in blue. The added or updated text highlighted in red.

Best regards

Authors

Comments and Suggestions for Authors –Reviewer 1

- The authors need to include a research methodology section, which describes briefly the conducted research activities to achieve the objective of this research.

Response: Done; thank you for your helpful comment. The required section is added to the article. Please refer to section 3 (Research Methodology).

3. Research methodology

In this paper, we design and develop a web-based QS framework for automating the cost estimation of concrete construction using a waterfall methodology. A qualitative research method is deployed to achieve the objectives of this research and fill the gaps identified in the literature survey. The proposed framework uses the results of the critical literature survey of previous studies to identify the gaps in implementation and analyze the impact of using BIM and QS features. In addition, data collected through personal interviews with specialists and engineer experts in the field are used to verify and validate the theoretical computation. The interactive relationship overview diagram of the proposed system shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Interactive relationship overview diagram of proposed QS system

- The introduction section needs to be reduced. The authors need to restructure the manuscript, by moving the previously conducted, and reported studies to a new section titled: previous studies.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. The introduction part is reduced and the required section is added to the article. Please refer to section 2, Literature Survey (Also, Review 3, asked to have a section for previous studies under the name Literature Survey).

2. Literature Survey

 Many significant studies have reviewed the implementation of BIM and QS. Aibinu et al. surveyed 180 QS firms to understand the efforts made towards the use of BIM features by reviewing QS practices and cost consultants in Australia [6]. Their findings indicated that most work is done in computer-aided take-off with two-dimensional models for cost planning and bill of quantities. However, little experience with 3D models was reported for automating the extraction of quantities. Furthermore, particular BIM features were used by QS firms, due to several warnings about the safety of 3D model design, the incompleteness of information in models, the cost of implementing BIM features, and the learning time required to adopt BIM features. Monteiro et al. examined the use of BIM input/output dynamic features for assessing quantity take-off under constrained specifications. The results show that it is possible to modify the take-off model for extracting quantities, based on existing specifications for manual measurements and visualization features. Therefore, take-off specifications should be revised before considering BIM features, which will minimize its limitations [7]. Mirshokraei et al. proposed a Web-based quality management (QM) prototype which integrates the BIM–AR (Augmented Reality) technique to enhance the QM of structural elements on site. They offered a fully customizable and independent platform, which is easily modified depending on the user’s needs. Their prototype was tested and verified using a real-life case [8]. Liu et al. reviewed several research papers related to the implementation of BIM in infrastructure, green building, and Facilities Management (FM). They reviewed global BIM research studies during the period 2004–2019 based on a scientometric analysis method, which presented invaluable information in the research field of BIM for researchers and practitioners by visualizing the current development and highlighting future research requirements [9]. Sinclair et al. presented a comprehensive study that explained important details regarding the QS Tasks and the bill of quantities (BoQ) in detail [10]. However, the author did not deploy any software and did not consider the country-specific nuances and rules in setting the cost per building type. Martinez et al. investigated the integration of BIM technologies on different platforms. They found that suitable interoperability among the various investors of a building project is an important feature for enabling BIM to provide a cost-effective solution [11]. Ashcraft et al. explored the crucial parametric modeling which is used to formulate the basic requirements of BIM practices. The study recorded the need for constructing efficient digital databases demonstrating the structure of the construction fundamentals and their associations to other building components [12]. Wu et al. studied the relationships between scheduling, sequencing, and cost-estimating in the BIM model. They offered new features such as object-orientated modeling and adding fourth- and fifth-dimension interoperability to BIM duties [13]. Gee C. examined the opportunities and obstacles of the full execution of BIM tasks in implementing the quantity surveying occupation. Furthermore, they investigated the main differences that the BIM models could make to adequately ensure that the quantity surveying occupation is included [14]. Zima K. examined the benefits of the implementation of computerizing bills of quantities (BoQ) in BIM, in order to reduce the fabrication of bill computation. The automatic production of a BoQ allows quantity surveyors to elaborate on the initial design phases of a building project and accomplish cost estimation quickly [15]. Rabie et al. performed a comparison study on the parts and roles of QS in construction projects in Sweden and the U.K. They recognized that the quantity surveying roles and its association with the services used by engineers in different construction sites would help both the owner and the subcontractor [16]. Jiang, X. proposed useful information to describe the scheduling process and creation of cost estimates for the fourth dimension with BIM technology, considering the available resources and exploring the future improvement for the estimation fifth dimension. The results showed that, by linking BIM with quantity take-off, time and effort can be saved in estimating the cost of the construction [17]. Wijayakumar et al. demonstrated that automated BIM tools could be fitted with the QS requirements. Their study examined the implementation of five different methods for the storage and exchange of BIM data, including data exchange using physical files and data sharing through the application interface, a central database, a federated database, and web services [18]. Marsh D. described a QS framework that contains critical factors for improving the quality of QS tasks, such as BIM maturity, definition benefits, barriers, adoption, Business planning, Organizational characteristics, Organizational Learning, and Change management. Moreover, they recorded the current errors in the risks posed by Building BIM to the QS profession [19]. Choo et al. reviewed and analyzed several types of research papers related to BIM in Korea based on certain research periods using text-mining methods. Their work divided these papers into the periods of introduction, development, and adaptation. The results proved that the BIM can be developed in all fields, such as civil engineering, aviation, and shipping, associated with construction activities [20]. Biancardo et al. developed and applied a BIM system for road infrastructures. They created 3D road infrastructure models and a parametric spatial representation using BIM tools and visual programming software. They also assessed the interoperability of extracting and exchanging information between these BIM tools and the software [21].

Our literature survey identified several gaps that should be taken into consideration and filled, such as:

• The absence of standard formatting for the storage and exchange of data; 
• The absence of standardization in documented and reviewed pricing data;
• Different methods implemented in estimating and calculating construction costs; and
• Insufficient information related to BIM models.

 - Figure 2 needs to be corrected. Some text in missing in the rectangles that identify the parameters, for example “cost of operation of ??”.

Response: Done; thank you for your significant comment. Figure 2 was redrawn, and all errors were corrected. Please refer to updated version of Figure 2.

Figure 2. The hierarchy of costs estimation of construction and installation.

- Figures 4, 8, 9, 10 and 11 need to be enlarged. Currently, they are not readable.

Response: Done; thank you for your notable comment. Figures 4, 8, 9, and 10 were corrected, and all figures were enlarged.

- The authors need to provide a description of the limitations of the developed application, and how these limitations can be resolved.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable to present the limitation of this work. The limitations and solutions are added to the article.

The limitation of this work is needing to implement more cost calculation methods, such as exporting cost calculation to take-off and bill of quantity software and bridging the system tools directly with estimating software. This can be solved by support importing and exporting different file types. Furthermore, more cost calculation functions which help to fully automate the QS activities like cost calculations for other QS activities, such as finishing, electricity, plumbing, labor charge, and profit of the contractor, should be added. This can be solved by focusing on more integration between the function of the proposed system and the estimating software.

As future work, deploying the framework to other platforms, such as cloud- or mobile-based platforms, will give more flexibility in calculation for QS activities.    

A professional proofreading organization has reviewed and corrected the article language (MDPI English editing, a certificate is provided).

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

This study discusses to design and deploy a web-based framework for automating the cost estimation of concrete construction using ASP.NET. It introduces a friendly user-interface that ensures that the work is completed in chronological order of the construction phases. However, some minor improvements should be performed in order to make the paper complete and more precise. Moreover, minor revisions of language and style are suggested. It can be accepted after some minor revisions.

Author Response

Dear Editor,

We have revised our article according to the editors and the four reviewer’s comments without any exception. However, below is the detailed response to the received comments. We want to take this opportunity to thank the editorial office and the reviewers for their valuable comments and informative feedback, which enrich the article. Also, we convey our thanks for the English language editing office MDPI for proofreading this article.

Note: the remarks of the reviewers are colored black while the authors respond highlighted in blue. The added or updated text highlighted in red.

Best regards

Authors

Comments and Suggestions for Authors –Reviewer 2

This study discusses to design and deploy a web-based framework for automating the cost estimation of concrete construction using ASP.NET. It introduces a friendly user-interface that ensures that the work is completed in chronological order of the construction phases.

Response: thank you for your informative describe of this work.

However, some minor improvements should be performed in order to make the paper complete and more precise. Moreover, minor revisions of language and style are suggested. It can be accepted after some minor revisions.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment that helps to improve the language and style of this work. A professional proofreading organization has reviewed and corrected the article language (MDPI English editing, a certificate is provided). Please refer to certificate below.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 3 Report

The manuscript is devoted to present a web-based framework for making automatic the cost estimation of concrete constructing. The architecture of tool is presented and a preliminary comparison between web-based tool application against work papers and excel worksheets is provided, highlighting the effectiveness of the proposed approach in terms of both accuracy and time consumption.

The topic is within the scope of the journal and it results potentially interesting. Nevertheless the presentation of work is significantly poor, needing huge improvements before publication. Thus I suggest to consider it for acceptance only after consistent “major revisions”.

In greater detail, please consider following suggestions:

• The “Introduction” is mainly focused on BIM and Quantity Surveying references. Further discussion about the implementation of computer-aided and web-based tools for cost estimation should be provided. I suggest to consider following references:
• Niknam M., Karshenas S. (2013). A semantic web service approach to construction cost estimating. Computing in Civil Engineering. Proceedings of the 2013 ASCE international workshop, 484-491.
• Xu S., Liu K., Tang L.C.M., Li W. (2016). A framework for integrating syntax, semantics and pragmatics for computer-aided professional practice: with application of costing in construction industry. Computers in Industry, 83/1), 28-45. DOI: 1016/j.compind.2016.08.004
• The “Materials and Methods” paragraph needs significant improvement. The flow-chart of Fig. 1 is quite ineffective and the introduction of the web-based tool is exclusively sketched. In addition several typos are detected from Line 96 to 102.
• In the “Features of Quantity Surveying” paragraph, the flow-chart in Fig. 2 should be strongly modified. It is not easily readable and the graphic quality is really poor.
• In the “Proposed System Design and Development” paragraph, Figs. 3-14 need significant improvements, resulting quite unreadable. Further information about implemented analytic formulations for cost estimations and block information updating are required, rather than showing the step-by-step consulting procedure of the tool. Several typos are detected all over the paragraph
• The comparison between the proposed tool and both paper work and excel software of “Discussion” paragraph appears pretty simplistic. Further details are needed to validate the results of comparison with reference to the Oman case-study.

An overall check of English language and style is needed and the improvement of graphs and figures in the text are unavoidable.

Regards.

Author Response

Dear Editor,

We have revised our article according to the editors and the four reviewer’s comments without any exception. However, below is the detailed response to the received comments. We want to take this opportunity to thank the editorial office and the reviewers for their valuable comments and informative feedback, which enrich the article. Also, we convey our thanks for the English language editing office MDPI for proofreading this article.

Note: the remarks of the reviewers are colored black while the authors respond highlighted in blue. The added or updated text highlighted in red.

Best regards

Authors

Comments and Suggestions for Authors –Reviewer3

The manuscript is devoted to present a web-based framework for making automatic the cost estimation of concrete constructing. The architecture of tool is presented and a preliminary comparison between web-based tool application against work papers and excel worksheets is provided, highlighting the effectiveness of the proposed approach in terms of both accuracy and time consumption.

The topic is within the scope of the journal and it results potentially interesting.

Nevertheless the presentation of work is significantly poor, needing huge improvements before publication. Thus I suggest to consider it for acceptance only after consistent “major revisions”.

Response: thank you for your valuable comments and time that surely will help to improve the quality and presentation of this work. Besides, we have revised our article according to given comments without any exception. However, below is the detailed response point by point to the received comments.

In greater detail, please consider following suggestions:

• The “Introduction” is mainly focused on BIM and Quantity Surveying references. Further discussion about the implementation of computer-aided and web-based tools for cost estimation should be provided. I suggest to consider following references:
• Niknam M., Karshenas S. (2013). A semantic web service approach to construction cost estimating. Computing in Civil Engineering. Proceedings of the 2013 ASCE international workshop, 484-491.
• Xu S., Liu K., Tang L.C.M., Li W. (2016). A framework for integrating syntax, semantics and pragmatics for computer-aided professional practice: with application of costing in construction industry. Computers in Industry, 83/1), 28-45. DOI: 1016/j.compind.2016.08.004.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment that helps to improve the presentation of this work. A discussion paragraph about the implementation of computer-aided and web-based tools for cost estimation is added in the introduction section. The two references are helpful and were added to the references. Please refer to lines (51 -59) and references [4, 5].

• The “Materials and Methods” paragraph needs significant improvement. The flow-chart of Fig. 1 is quite ineffective and the introduction of the web-based tool is exclusively sketched.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Figure 1 was redrawn, and all errors were corrected by. Please refer to Figure 1. Besides, the “Materials and Methods” section is removed and enhanced to be as “Research Methodology” section 3 as reviewer 1 asked. Please see the updated information.

3. Research methodology

In this paper, we design and develop a web-based QS framework for automating the cost estimation of concrete construction using a waterfall methodology. A qualitative research method is deployed to achieve the objectives of this research and fill the gaps identified in the literature survey. The proposed framework uses the results of the critical literature survey of previous studies to identify the gaps in implementation and analyze the impact of using BIM and QS features. In addition, data collected through personal interviews with specialists and engineer experts in the field are used to verify and validate the theoretical computation. The interactive relationship overview diagram of the proposed system shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Interactive relationship overview diagram of proposed QS system

• In addition, several typos are detected from Line 96 to 102.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment that helps to improve the language and style of this work. A professional proofreading organization has reviewed and corrected the article language (MDPI English editing, a certificate is provided).

• In the “Features of Quantity Surveying” paragraph, the flow-chart in Fig. 2 should be strongly modified. It is not easily readable and the graphic quality is really poor.

Response: Done; thank you for your significant comment. Figure 2 was redrawn with high resolution, and all errors were corrected. Please refer to Figure 2 as follows:

Figure 2. The hierarchy of costs estimation of construction and installation.

• In the “Proposed System Design and Development” paragraph, Figs. 3-14 need significant improvements, resulting quite unreadable.

Response: Done; thank you for your notable comment. The needed information added. Also, Figures 3-14 were improved, and redrawn with high resolution.

For the proposed framework, we developed and designed a web-based QS framework for automating the cost estimation of concrete construction using a waterfall methodology. The Visual Studio .Net developer platform was used for developing and deploying the proposed framework using ASP.Net and the C# programming language. Figure 3 presents the phase interactions of the proposed framework, which consists of two main phases: cost calculation of sub-structure activities—such as Excavation, Polyethylene, Plain cement concrete (PCC) ratio and Footing, Poly-wood Footing, Block Cement, Column Calculation, and Plinth Beam—as well as cost calculation of super-structure activities—such as Super-structure ground floor (GF), GF Beam, GF Roof Slab, Super-structure first floor (FF), FF Concrete and Poly-wood, Slab for FF, PH (acidity or alkalinity) level of Super-structure, and PH level of beams and Slabs. A qualitative research method is deployed to achieve the objectives of this research and fill the gaps identified by the literature survey.

We used the results of the critical literature survey of previous studies to identify the gaps in implementation and to analyze the impact of using BIM and QS features. In addition, data collection through personal interviews with specialists and engineer experts in the field was carried out to verify and validate the theoretical computation. The phase interactions of the proposed framework are shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3. The phases interactions of proposed framework;

• Further information about implemented analytic formulations for cost estimations and block information updating are required, rather than showing the step-by-step consulting procedure of the tool. Several typos are detected all over the paragraph

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Needed Information about the analytic formulations of cost estimations and block information updating were added. A professional proofreading organization has reviewed and corrected the article language (MDPI English editing, a certificate is provided).

In addition, the Figure 10 is replaced by real specification building data for testing the proposed system. Also, Figure 11 is added to present the computation of cost excavation and Cost of Polyethylene). Figure 12 presents the Plain cement concrete (PCC) calculation. Please refer to Figure 10. And the below text is added.

The excavation cost (Figure 11a) is calculated as the quantity of extracted soil multiplied by the price of each cubic meter, which are determined by equations 1 and 2, correspondingly:

Excavation-Volume =Thickness x Length x width,                                                                             (1)

where thickness is the amount of the quantity of extracted soil, length is the digging distance, and width is the width of the digging area.

Cost of excavation = Excavation-Volume x unit cost,                                                                          (2)

where the unit cost is fixed, based on the local price (Oman = 0.5 Omani Rial; OMR).

As a real test example (Figure 11a), with Excavation-Volume (2.6 x 29 x 19.69) equal to 1,483.118, when multiplied by the unit cost (0.5), the resulting cost estimate was (741.559 OMR =1926.20$).

The required High-density polyethylene pipes cost computation (Figure 11b) is calculated as in equation 3:

Cost of Polyethylene = ((Length x width) /Roll Area) x Roll price,                                                     (3)

where the foundation area is the result of multiplying the length by the width of the area to be computed, the roll area is 50 square meters, and roll price is 5 OMR per. roll Therefore, the Polyethylene cost (Figure 11b) is (29 x 19.69/50) x 5, which is equal to (57.043 OMR =148.17$).

• The comparison between the proposed tool and both paper work and excel software of “Discussion” paragraph appears pretty simplistic. Further details are needed to validate the results of comparison with reference to the Oman case-study.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. More details related to a comparison of proposed work and other models in Oman and other both paper work and excel software were added. The Figure 10 and 17 are added that consist of the real specification building data that will be used to test the three systems.

To computer the performance of the three system, we should compute all of them under same conditions as shown in Figure 10.

For evaluation purposes, we should implement and compute the three systems under the same conditions; therefore, real building data of a project located in Oman-Sohar was used, as shown in Figure 10. Table 7 presents a comparative factor, which was used to evaluate the three systems including Process Time, Use of Database, Security of data, Automation of activities, Reliability in keeping data safe, Type of Platform, and Ease of Updating data. For the sake of testing the performance in terms of working time, the building specification shown in Figure 10 was used. The computation of QS activities consisted of 130 pages of manual calculation. The filling and verification of each page needed about 21 hours (1260 minutes) using paperwork, 3.5 hours (210 minutes) using excel work, and 0.5 hours (30 minutes) using the proposed QS.

Therefore,

The time needed for paperwork was (130 x 1260 =) 163,800 Minutes;

The time needed for excel work was (130 x 210 =) 27,300 Minutes; and

The time needed for the proposed QS was (130 x 30 =) 3,900 Minutes.

Figure 16. Comparison results of time needed based (paperwork, excel work, proposed QS)

Figure 17 shows the needed working time for complementing the construction time of the three systems (paperwork, excel work, proposed QS), which is evident that the proposed system is performed high computation with less working time. 

Figure 17. Necessary working time for the three systems (paperwork, excel work, proposed QS),

An overall check of English language and style is needed and the improvement of graphs and figures in the text are unavoidable.

Response: Done; thank you for your notable comment. Figures were improved, and redrawn with high resolution.

Besides, A professional proofreading organization has reviewed and corrected the article language (MDPI English editing, a certificate is provided). Please refer to certificate below.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 4 Report

This manuscript proposes a web-based framework to automate the work of QS. By comparing the calculation methods of traditional QS (Manual and Excel), it is concluded that the proposed framework could help improve the productivity of QS. Comments on this manuscript are as follows:

• Authors mentioned BIM extensively in the literature review part of the article, but the authors did not explain on how the web-based framework could be integrated with BIM?
• Line 28，"Introduction" should be in bold
• The authors mentioned “proposed QS is required less amount of paid salaries” in the abstract part. This is might not be accurate. The widespread use of construction IT or BIM technology in the QS industry has helped QS unleash more productivity, but the ultimate goal should not be to reduce QS salaries. With the continuous development of BIM and artificial intelligence technology, QS process may become more intelligent and accurate, but QS can do more "value engineering".
• Keywords need to be rearranged alphabetically
• Line 50-90，The authors should consider composing a Literature review section.
• Line 50-90, The format of many reference and quote is inaccurate:
• If you cited the article has multiple authors, it should be written as the first author family name et al. , such as Sinclair et al. instead of Sinclair. Ashcraft et al. instead of Ashcraft , Wu et al. instead of ShuweiWu and so on.
• The author needs to check all references in the manuscript to make sure they are properly formatted.
• Line 95, Research methods need more explanation why such research methods are suitable for this article ? How many experts and BIM specialists are involved in the validation process? You need to provide the profile of the experts/specialists.
• Figure 2, the yellow part of parameters seems to be incomplete, such as “COST OF OPERATION OF ??? “
• Line 168, Table 1
• The comparison in table 1 is not considered to be of any significance. Unless the author can explain how to judge setting level, using level ?
• Revit is BIM authoring tool to create model, which is a far-fetched definition of QS software
• BIM Based QS software such as Cost X, Cubicost and vico office should be mentioned with reference 
• The authors need to compare the process of applying different BIM software to do calculation
• Figure 3,6,8,9，10 and 11 are not clear enough to be published.
• provide the interpretation of figure 4 and figure 5.
• there are not enough references. This research did not consider recent studies closely related to the BIM and QS. As an example the following research articles are related to this research, yet not cited:
• https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.1061/(ASCE)EI.1943-5541.0000193
• https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.1016/j.autcon.2013.05.005
• https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/buildings9100210
• https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rafael_Sacks/publication/288591871_A_knowledge-based_framework_for_quantity_takeoff_and_cost_estimation_in_the_AEC_industry_using_BIM/links/56e906cf08aec65cb45ee2ae/A-knowledge-based-framework-for-quantity-takeoff-and-cost-estimation-in-the-AEC-industry-using-BIM.pdf

Author Response

Dear Editor,

We have revised our article according to the editors and the four reviewer’s comments without any exception. However, below is the detailed response to the received comments. We want to take this opportunity to thank the editorial office and the reviewers for their valuable comments and informative feedback, which enrich the article. Also, we convey our thanks for the English language editing office MDPI for proofreading this article.

Note: the remarks of the reviewers are colored black while the authors respond highlighted in blue. The added or updated text highlighted in red.

Best regards

Authors

Comments and Suggestions for Authors-Review4

This manuscript proposes a web-based framework to automate the work of QS. By comparing the calculation methods of traditional QS (Manual and Excel), it is concluded that the proposed framework could help improve the productivity of QS. Comments on this manuscript are as follows:

• Authors mentioned BIM extensively in the literature review part of the article, but the authors did not explain on how the web-based framework could be integrated with BIM?

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Needed Information about how the web-based framework could be integrated with BIM were added. Please refer to the text below.

Web-based QS frameworks can offer customizable and standard user interfaces during construction activities. They offer suitable platforms to solve the absence of standardization in data formatting and documentation, which limits the performance of construction management. They can also help to deploy methods for integrating the BIM Quantities and Bills of Quantities by offering standard planning cost and pricing formats.

• Line 28，"Introduction" should be in bold

Response: Done and corrected; thank you for your valuable comment.

• The authors mentioned “proposed QS is required less amount of paid salaries” in the abstract part. This is might not be accurate. The widespread use of construction IT or BIM technology in the QS industry has helped QS unleash more productivity, but the ultimate goal should not be to reduce QS salaries. With the continuous development of BIM and artificial intelligence technology, QS process may become more intelligent and accurate, but QS can do more "value engineering".

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Yes, we agreed that the goal is not to reduce the salaries.

Done, we corrected it to be more clear and informative as follows lines 26-29:

The comparison result of the Quantity Surveyor’s average paid salary indicates that using web-based QS framework helps in reducing the cost estimation time and labor costs.

However, we meant that implementing automatic QS software will help to reduce the cost estimation time (3 days in mentioned case study in the abstract) needed to finish the work in comparisons with the same work based on paper-work (need 114 days) or excel-work (19 days).  The reduction in working time, will reduce the daily paid salaries for labor.

• Keywords need to be rearranged alphabetically

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment.

Keywords: Automation Models; BIM; Project Cost Estimating; Quantity Surveyor; Structure Concrete Infrastructure; Web-based framework.

• Line 50-90，The authors should consider composing a Literature review section.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. The required section is added to the article. Please refer to section 2 (Literature review).

2. Literature Survey

 Many significant studies have reviewed the implementation of BIM and QS. Aibinu et al. surveyed 180 QS firms to understand the efforts made towards the use of BIM features by reviewing QS practices and cost consultants in Australia [6]. Their findings indicated that most work is done in computer-aided take-off with two-dimensional models for cost planning and bill of quantities. However, little experience with 3D models was reported for automating the extraction of quantities. Furthermore, particular BIM features were used by QS firms, due to several warnings about the safety of 3D model design, the incompleteness of information in models, the cost of implementing BIM features, and the learning time required to adopt BIM features. Monteiro et al. examined the use of BIM input/output dynamic features for assessing quantity take-off under constrained specifications. The results show that it is possible to modify the take-off model for extracting quantities, based on existing specifications for manual measurements and visualization features. Therefore, take-off specifications should be revised before considering BIM features, which will minimize its limitations [7]. Mirshokraei et al. proposed a Web-based quality management (QM) prototype which integrates the BIM–AR (Augmented Reality) technique to enhance the QM of structural elements on site. They offered a fully customizable and independent platform, which is easily modified depending on the user’s needs. Their prototype was tested and verified using a real-life case [8]. Liu et al. reviewed several research papers related to the implementation of BIM in infrastructure, green building, and Facilities Management (FM). They reviewed global BIM research studies during the period 2004–2019 based on a scientometric analysis method, which presented invaluable information in the research field of BIM for researchers and practitioners by visualizing the current development and highlighting future research requirements [9]. Sinclair et al. presented a comprehensive study that explained important details regarding the QS Tasks and the bill of quantities (BoQ) in detail [10]. However, the author did not deploy any software and did not consider the country-specific nuances and rules in setting the cost per building type. Martinez et al. investigated the integration of BIM technologies on different platforms. They found that suitable interoperability among the various investors of a building project is an important feature for enabling BIM to provide a cost-effective solution [11]. Ashcraft et al. explored the crucial parametric modeling which is used to formulate the basic requirements of BIM practices. The study recorded the need for constructing efficient digital databases demonstrating the structure of the construction fundamentals and their associations to other building components [12]. Wu et al. studied the relationships between scheduling, sequencing, and cost-estimating in the BIM model. They offered new features such as object-orientated modeling and adding fourth- and fifth-dimension interoperability to BIM duties [13]. Gee C. examined the opportunities and obstacles of the full execution of BIM tasks in implementing the quantity surveying occupation. Furthermore, they investigated the main differences that the BIM models could make to adequately ensure that the quantity surveying occupation is included [14]. Zima K. examined the benefits of the implementation of computerizing bills of quantities (BoQ) in BIM, in order to reduce the fabrication of bill computation. The automatic production of a BoQ allows quantity surveyors to elaborate on the initial design phases of a building project and accomplish cost estimation quickly [15]. Rabie et al. performed a comparison study on the parts and roles of QS in construction projects in Sweden and the U.K. They recognized that the quantity surveying roles and its association with the services used by engineers in different construction sites would help both the owner and the subcontractor [16]. Jiang, X. proposed useful information to describe the scheduling process and creation of cost estimates for the fourth dimension with BIM technology, considering the available resources and exploring the future improvement for the estimation fifth dimension. The results showed that, by linking BIM with quantity take-off, time and effort can be saved in estimating the cost of the construction [17]. Wijayakumar et al. demonstrated that automated BIM tools could be fitted with the QS requirements. Their study examined the implementation of five different methods for the storage and exchange of BIM data, including data exchange using physical files and data sharing through the application interface, a central database, a federated database, and web services [18]. Marsh D. described a QS framework that contains critical factors for improving the quality of QS tasks, such as BIM maturity, definition benefits, barriers, adoption, Business planning, Organizational characteristics, Organizational Learning, and Change management. Moreover, they recorded the current errors in the risks posed by Building BIM to the QS profession [19]. Choo et al. reviewed and analyzed several types of research papers related to BIM in Korea based on certain research periods using text-mining methods. Their work divided these papers into the periods of introduction, development, and adaptation. The results proved that the BIM can be developed in all fields, such as civil engineering, aviation, and shipping, associated with construction activities [20]. Biancardo et al. developed and applied a BIM system for road infrastructures. They created 3D road infrastructure models and a parametric spatial representation using BIM tools and visual programming software. They also assessed the interoperability of extracting and exchanging information between these BIM tools and the software [21].

Our literature survey identified several gaps that should be taken into consideration and filled, such as:

• The absence of standard formatting for the storage and exchange of data; 
• The absence of standardization in documented and reviewed pricing data;
• Different methods implemented in estimating and calculating construction costs; and
• Insufficient information related to BIM models.

This paper aims to design and implement a web-based QS framework for automating the cost estimation of concrete construction using visual studio (ASP.NET and SQL server). It introduces a user-friendly interface which ensures that the work is completed in the chronological order of the construction phases.

• Line 50-90, The format of many reference and quote is inaccurate:
• If you cited the article has multiple authors, it should be written as the first author family name et al. , such as Sinclair et al. instead of Sinclair. Ashcraft et al. instead of Ashcraft , Wu et al. instead of ShuweiWu and so on.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Reformatted and corrected all references in the article. Please refer to section 2, and see below examples.

Sinclair et al. presented a comprehensive study that explains the important details regarding the QS Tasks and the bill of quantities (BoQ) in detail [10]. However, the author did not deploy any software and did not consider the country nuances rules in setting the cost per building type. Martinez et al. investigated the integration of BIM technology on a different platform. They found that suitable interoperability among the various investors of a building project is an important feature for enabling BIM to provide a cost-effective solution [11]. Ashcraft et al. explored the crucial parametric modeling that is used to formulate the basic requirements of BIM practices. The study recorded the need for constructing efficient digital databases for demonstrating the structure of the construction fundamentals and their associations to other building components [12]. Wu et al.  studied the relationship between scheduling, sequencing, and cost estimating in the BIM model. They offered new features like object-orientated modeling and adding fourth and fifth dimension interoperability to BIM duties [13].

• The author needs to check all references in the manuscript to make sure they are properly formatted.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. All references in the article were reformatted and corrected accordingly.

• Line 95, Research methods need more explanation why such research methods are suitable for this article?

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Needed Information related to why choose this research method is added. Please refer to below text.

Our literature survey identified several gaps that should be taken into consideration and filled, such as:

• The absence of standard formatting for the storage and exchange of data; 
• The absence of standardization in documented and reviewed pricing data;
• Different methods implemented in estimating and calculating construction costs; and
• Insufficient information related to BIM models.

This paper aims to design and implement a web-based QS framework for automating the cost estimation of concrete construction using visual studio (ASP.NET and SQL server). It introduces a user-friendly interface which ensures that the work is completed in the chronological order of the construction phases.

? How many experts and BIM specialists are involved in the validation process? You need to provide the profile of the experts/specialists.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. The needed information related to validation process is added and the profile of validation panel is explained below. Please see the appendix 1 and appendix 2.

This work is tested using real data of building in Sohar – Oman. Two expert teams validate the research work. 

Two experts’ construction companies validate the computation formulas and building construction information. Specialist engineers from Burooj Al-Aqeer Modern Trade L.L.C Construction Company (located in Sohar City- Oman), which provided us with a construction map for the building and validated the manual computation by made by the second author in this research (Mr. Saif - quantity survivor specialist). Please see the attached examples of paperwork computation below. Then the Gharib consulting engineers company (Located in Sohar - Oman) validated the Specification of the Sub-structure & Super-Structure computation and formulas used. Besides, the implementation of the web-based framework was validated and tested by three professors at Sohar University who validate the programming skills and the research methodology steps from data collection until the framework implementation and testing.

1. Associate professor Dr. Dawood Al-Hamdani, Postgraduate Dean.
2. Associate professor Dr. Mabruk A. Fekihal, Specialist in database development and ERP.
3. Assistant professor Dr. Eimad Abusham, Specialist in programing languages techniques. 

• Figure 2, the yellow part of parameters seems to be incomplete, such as “COST OF OPERATION OF ??? “

Response: Done; thank you for your significant comment. Figure 2 was redrawn with high resolution, and all errors were corrected. Please refer to Figure 2 below.

• Line 168, Table 1
• The comparison in table 1 is not considered to be of any significance. Unless the author can explain how to judge setting level, using level?

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Needed Information related to comparison of table 1 is added. Also, the table is updated by removing the setting and using level and replaced with type of modelling and export data type. Please refer to Table 1.

Table 1. The comparison of selected software.

The results in Table 1 indicate that most software is used for 2D and 3D modeling and visualization. Despite the lack of file format standardization, most of them offer to import/export data to other formats, such as image files or excel sheets.

• Revit is BIM authoring tool to create model, which is a far-fetched definition of QS software.

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Yes, we agreed and corrected. Please refer to text below.

There are many methods for cost estimation, some of which are traditional standards and are still used by quantity surveyors, such as the Excel, AutoCAD, and MS-Project software, and some are more modern, such as the Autodesk Revit, Estimator Xpress, and Easy Builder PlanSwift software, which better meet current developments

• BIM Based QS software such as Cost X, Cubicost and vico office should be mentioned with reference 

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. Required information added with suitable references.

Furthermore, several types of BIM-based QS software are used, such as Cost x, Cubicost, and Vico office [26]. These help to automate estimation take-off cost features accurately and easily, supporting different platforms such as Windows, Mac, cloud-based SaaS, IOS, and Android. They offer a 3D view, measured dimension overlay, Electronic Plans, and Elevation Checking. These introduce a wide range of File Compatibility with other software, exporting formats such as CAD files, excel (*.CSV), images (JPGs, GIFs, or TIFs), and PDF files (*.pdf).

• The authors need to compare the process of applying different BIM software to do calculation

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. The needed information and the comparison details were added.

Web-based QS frameworks can offer customizable and standard user interfaces during construction activities. They offer suitable platforms to solve the absence of standardization in data formatting and documentation, which limits the performance of construction management. They can also help to deploy methods for integrating the BIM Quantities and Bills of Quantities by offering standard planning cost and pricing formats.

Unfortunately, most companies do not offer open-source cost calculation solutions and used different file formats, which is considered as one of the crucial issues in the functionality of such software. However, the main calculation features can be reviewed by the user, in order to judge the ease and accuracy of calculations. Table 2 presents a comparison of different cost estimation applications.

Table 2. Comparison of Cost estimation software.

• Figure 3,6,8,9，10 and 11 are not clear enough to be published.

Response: Done; thank you for your notable comment. Figures were improved, and redrawn with high resolution.

• provide the interpretation of figure 4 and figure 5.

Response: Done; thank you for your notable comment. A suitable explanation of Figures 4 and 5 were added.

The proposed Web-based QS architecture consists of several tables for managing and controlling the attributes and operations of construction cost estimating. The SQL Server is used to create the database schema for the proposed system, which consists of 14 tables for deploying the functional requirements. The attributes and operations of the structure of the proposed system are described by the class diagram shown in Figure 4, which shows the system classes and the relationships among objects; for example, the project information can involve several buildings, and each build should have (sub-structure and super-structure) information. Furthermore, Figure 5 illustrates the sequence diagrams to identify the interactions and collaborations among the system objects. It visually shows the order of the interaction scenario of the functional requirements by actors (QS user, QS software, etc.), in order to represent the time of the function and what messages are sent or received.

• there are not enough references. This research did not consider recent studies closely related to the BIM and QS. As an example the following research articles are related to this research, yet not cited:

Response: Done; thank you for your valuable comment. The references are helpful and were used, cited and added to the article. Please refer to references [4,5, 6,7,8,9].

Many significant studies have reviewed the implementation of BIM and QS. Aibinu et al. surveyed 180 QS firms to understand the efforts made towards the use of BIM features by reviewing QS practices and cost consultants in Australia [6]. Their findings indicated that most work is done in computer-aided take-off with two-dimensional models for cost planning and bill of quantities. However, little experience with 3D models was reported for automating the extraction of quantities. Furthermore, particular BIM features were used by QS firms, due to several warnings about the safety of 3D model design, the incompleteness of information in models, the cost of implementing BIM features, and the learning time required to adopt BIM features. Monteiro et al. examined the use of BIM input/output dynamic features for assessing quantity take-off under constrained specifications. The results show that it is possible to modify the take-off model for extracting quantities, based on existing specifications for manual measurements and visualization features. Therefore, take-off specifications should be revised before considering BIM features, which will minimize its limitations [7]. Mirshokraei et al. proposed a Web-based quality management (QM) prototype which integrates the BIM–AR (Augmented Reality) technique to enhance the QM of structural elements on site. They offered a fully customizable and independent platform, which is easily modified depending on the user’s needs. Their prototype was tested and verified using a real-life case [8]. Liu et al. reviewed several research papers related to the implementation of BIM in infrastructure, green building, and Facilities Management (FM). They reviewed global BIM research studies during the period 2004–2019 based on a scientometric analysis method, which presented invaluable information in the research field of BIM for researchers and practitioners by visualizing the current development and highlighting future research requirements [9].

A professional proofreading organization has reviewed and corrected the article language (MDPI English editing, a certificate is provided).

Appendix 1: samples of paper work of the real building test example

Appendix 2: samples of constraining amp and schedule of footing of the real building test example.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

All requiref corrections have been implemented. 

Author Response

We want to take this opportunity to thank you for your valuable comments and informative feedback, which enrich the article.

Reviewer 3 Report

The manuscript has been significantly improved and the authors have deeply taken into account the Reviewers' comments. Nevertheless, before accpetance, in my thought Figures need further improvements, by both uniforming the style of labels and lengends and increasing their resolution and format. Figure 8 and 19 are highly misshapen. The English style has been highly improved.

Best regards

Author Response

We want to take this opportunity to thank you for your valuable comments and informative feedback, which enrich the article. Figures (7-15, 19) were redrawn with high resolutions and we unified the style of all labels and legends.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 4 Report

The authors have addressed my concerns. If you have intention to publishing your appendix, pls make sure you get the consultants approval. 

Author Response

We want to take this opportunity to thank you for your valuable comments and informative feedback, which enrich the article.