Quantities and Estimation

GHC 2200


Enrolled

200+ Students


Language

English


Skill Level

Beginner , Intermediate


Certificate

Yes


Sessions

Weekends


Program Description

This program is designed to equip participants with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed for quantity surveying and cost estimation in construction projects. Using PlanSwift, a leading digital takeoff and estimating software, and SMM7 guidelines, participants will learn to create accurate bills of quantities, estimate material and labor costs, analyze building rates, and integrate data seamlessly with Excel. Additionally, the course includes entrepreneurship insights to empower learners to manage projects independently or establish their quantity surveying practice.

What You Will Learn
1. The Basics
  • Introduction to PlanSwift: Interface and Features
  • Overview of SMM7 and its relevance in quantity surveying
  • Understanding project specifications and plans
  • Setting up PlanSwift for first use
2. Working with Blank Bills
  • Creating blank bills of quantities in PlanSwift
  • Structuring and formatting bills for professional use
  • Understanding measurement groups and cost codes
  • Exporting blank bills for further processing
3. Taking Off
  • Digitizing blueprints for measurement
  • Using PlanSwift to perform accurate takeoffs
  • Applying SMM7 rules for measurements
  • Annotating and documenting measurements
4. Estimation Cost of Materials
  • Identifying material requirements from takeoffs
  • Applying material costs to bills of quantities
  • Factoring in wastage and contingencies
  • Updating material prices using supplier databases
5. Estimating Labor Cost
  • Determining labor needs for project tasks
  • Calculating labor rates and productivity
  • Incorporating regional labor market trends
  • Allocating labor costs in detailed estimates
6. Building Rates
  • Understanding and analyzing building rates
  • Preparing cost breakdowns for various trades
  • Adjusting rates for project-specific conditions
  • Generating comprehensive rate summaries
7. Integrating PlanSwift with Excel
  • Exporting data from PlanSwift to Excel for analysis
  • Creating dynamic templates for bills of quantities
  • Performing advanced calculations and visualizations in Excel
  • Automating repetitive tasks with macros
8. Entrepreneurship
  • Establishing a career as a quantity surveyor
  • Managing clients and contracts effectively
  • Strategies for setting up a quantity surveying business
  • Leveraging digital tools to enhance professional output
Mawufemo Ametame
Mawufemo Ametame
Instructor
Building Engineer

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is PlanSwift, and why is it used in this course?

PlanSwift is a digital takeoff and estimating software widely used in the construction industry. It simplifies the process of measuring quantities, estimating costs, and preparing bills of quantities from project plans, making it an essential tool for quantity surveyors and cost estimators.

2. How long does the course last?

Weekend: The course runs for 4 weeks. Classes are held on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM

3. What tools and materials will I need for the course?

A laptop with PlanSwift installed (trial or licensed version)

Microsoft Excel (any recent version)

Access to sample project plans (provided during the course)

4. What support is available during the course?

Our instructors provide hands-on guidance throughout the course. Students also have access to a WhatsApp support group, where they can ask questions and collaborate with peers.

5. Are there practical projects included in the course?

Yes, students will work on a project throughout the course to apply their skills. The project involves quantifying and costing a residential project.

6. Do you offer private classes?

Yes, we provide private training sessions for individuals or organizations with customized schedules and content. Please reach out to us on 0556662426 for pricing and availability.

7. Do I need prior experience with PlanSwift to take this course?

No prior experience is required. The course starts with the basics of using PlanSwift and gradually progresses to advanced topics, ensuring that both beginners and experienced professionals can benefit.