Soft Skills Development Using BIM Software among Quantity Surveyors in the Malaysian Construction Industry

The implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the construction sector has significantly contributed to the cultivation of soft skills in quantity surveying professions. Nonetheless, challenges persist in developing these skills, necessitating focused advancements. This study explores the soft skills cultivated by BIM, examines related obstacles, and establishes strategies for enhancement. A quantitative approach was utilized through a questionnaire survey targeting Quantity Surveyors within the Malaysian construction sector, with data analysed using the Relative Importance Index (RII) method. Findings indicate that communication is the most substantially enhanced soft skill through BIM, followed by leadership and teamwork. BIM improves Quantity Surveyors’ capacity to communicate intricate information, oversee integrated project teams, and cooperate efficiently across several disciplines. Nevertheless, challenges remain, particularly insufficient leadership knowledge within organizations and communication hurdles encountered by introverted individuals, which can impede collaboration and project efficacy. The study advocates for the integration of soft skills training within BIM technical programs, the promotion of leadership involvement, the encouragement of transparent communication, and the cultivation of individual accountability within team environments to address these barriers. Self-directed social contact is recognized as an excellent method for enhancing interpersonal skills. This study emphasizes the essential importance of soft skills—specifically communication, leadership, and teamwork—in optimizing the advantages of BIM adoption. By overcoming identified challenges and executing focused initiatives, organizations may strengthen collaborative performance, leadership capabilities, and communication efficacy among Quantity Surveyors, thus enhancing project delivery outcomes in the Malaysian construction industry.