Assessment of Risks Associated with the Usage of Quantity Surveying Softwares in Nigeria: The Case Lagos State

Several researchers have acknowledged the impact of software in Quantity Surveying Practice. However, it is suspected that not all the consulting firms in Lagos State are making use of all the Quantity Surveying Softwares. Hence, this study identified a set of risk factors associated with the usage of these softwares. The research adopted convenient method of sampling. Twenty nine (29) consulting firms were selected out of which twenty six (26) responded appropriately. Data collection was through a structured questionnaire that was administered by the researchers using set predetermined questions. The result of the study reveals that all the quantity surveying firms in Lagos State work with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft word packages. Thirty percent (30%) of the consulting firms work with Master bill, Qs Cad, Qs Elite, Ripac, Computer Aided taking off (CATO) and Building information model software etc. It also reveals that changing trends in technology is the major factor that necessitates the usage of softwares in quantity surveying firms in Lagos State. Furthermore, Incompatibility in software packages is the major risk associated with the usage of quantity surveying softwares. This study recommends that Quantity surveying firms must ensure that the choice of software packages should be compatible with the existing model in Nigeria in terms of interoperability, portability and flexibility. Also, most estimators should be trained and given technical support so that they can become first-hand software expert.