CostStudio: a web-based cost estimation tool for architectural design studios

Abstract

The advent of computers has had a tremendous impact on every field of study. Their phenomenal computing power and storage capabilities, along with the ability to "network" and share information, afford tremendous possibilities. The Internet has become the single largest source for the dissemination and sharing of information. Academia has proactively seized the opportunity to review existing educational methodology and devise methods that use the power of computers and networking to improve knowledge transfer and create a better learning experience for students. Online accredited degrees offered by virtual universities epitomize the impact of technology on the field of education. The vertical impact of a broader and deeper educational experience in every academic field has been complimented by a horizontal impact on all the fields, as they continue to discover areas of overlap and foster inter-disciplinary learning. Architecture is one of the fields that has benefited tremendously by advances in information technology. Computers have replaced traditional manual drafting techniques, design techniques and storage of information. Not only do these tools provide the means of doing things better and faster, but they also enhance the learning process. The current research focuses on a cost estimation tool that accentuates knowledge of the cost estimation process for architectural students and audits the student's usage of the tool by recording each interaction in an auditing database. Cost estimation, traditionally, has received more focus by construction engineers. However, it holds considerable significance for architects who must evaluate the cost feasibility of their designs. CostStudio, an online web-based cost estimation tool, was developed for architecture students to fulfill these needs. The tool was developed in Java using Java Server Pages and component based Java Beans technology with a pure Java based database at the backend. The research effort focuses on educating architectural students and studying the impact and acceptance of such tools among students.