Construction Specifications Writing

This third edition of the standard construction specifications writing guide has been updated to include new information on linking specifications to computer databases and to other parts of the design process. Construction Specifications Writing shows how to organize documents, consolidate the Federal government systems, generate well-researched mastertexts, automate specifications, write more condensed text, use full-time specifications consultants, and use the new knowledge-based specifying systems.

Updated edition of the comprehensive rulebook to the specifier's craft With this latest update, Construction Specifications Writing, Sixth Edition continues to claim distinction as the foremost text on construction specifications. This mainstay in the field offers comprehensive, practical, and professional guidance to understanding the purposes and processes for preparation of construction specifications. This new edition uses real-world document examples that reflect current writing practices shaped by the well-established principles and requirements of major professional associations, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Engineers Joint Contract Documents Committee (EJCDC), and the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). Also included are guidelines for correct terminology, product selection, organization of specifications according to recognized CSI formats, and practical techniques for document production. Fully revised throughout, this Sixth Edition includes: Updates to MasterFormat 2004, as well as SectionFormat/PageFormat 2007 and Uniformat End-of-chapter questions and specification-writing exercises Samples of the newly updated construction documents from the AIA New chapter on sustainable design and specifications for LEED projects Updated information on the role of specifications in Building Information Modeling (BIM)

The must-have specifications writing reference and essential study aid for the Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) Exam The CSI Practice Guides are a library of comprehensive references specifically and carefully designed for the construction professional. Each book examines important concepts and best practices integral to a particular aspect of the building process. The CSI Construction Specifications Practice Guide is focused on the roles and responsibilities of the specifications professional in meeting the challenges of the changing world of construction. In this volume, guidelines on topics like writing quality construction specifications and product selection are meshed with best practices for managing project information, working with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Integrated Project Delivery, and writing sustainable design specifications. Other material covered in this guide includes: The Construction Specifications Institute's collected best practices for authoring specifications Specialized guidance on presentation and management of project information in the context of Building Information Modeling and sustainable design Includes access to a password-protected web site with bonus content, including a PDF of the printed book and copies of CSI format documents, such as UniFormat and SectionFormat/PageFormat An authoritative resource for effective written communication of design intent, The CSI Construction Specifications Practice Guide presents construction professionals and students studying for the Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) Exam with a solid foundation for improving their methods of collecting and delivering important specifications data. Serves as an authoritativeresource for effective writing of design intent Includes CSI's best practicesfor authoring specifications Offers specialized guidance on project information in the context of BIM and sustainable design

For the past 25 years, Joe Goldbloom and I have conducted a running debate over whether specifications writers engage in the unlawful practice of law. Joe's position is that lawyers have no business writing specifications, that being the designer's province. Having been given the honor to write this foreword, I have the opportunity for the last word, at least for now. Joe Goldbloom and I first met in 1964, while serving together on the ASCE Committee on Contract Administration. Joe became my teacher, mentor, and friend. Underlying our good natured debate was the serious issue of the technical qualifications required of a specifications writer. As a matter of fact, specifi cations writing traditionally has fallen in a crack between the two professions. Specifications writing typically is neither taught in engineering school nor in law school. Engineers are taught how to design; lawyers are taught how to draft contracts. Specifications writing requires mastery of the technical elements of design as well as the skills of contract drafting. Specifications writing is neither glamorous nor sexy; it is often viewed as a necessary evil of the designer's job.

"Unlike any other book on the market, Construction Specifications: Principles and Applications addresses specification writing as a process for managing professional risk, enhancing the value of an architect's or engineer's instruments of service, and increasing the economic performance of facilities in public and private sectors. This book will guide users through the creation and implementation of construction specifications and related construction administration documents, detailing the requirements for effective, successful specifications."--Jacket.

In Specifications for Building Conservation, the National Trust draws on a range of case studies and specifications to provide a much needed guide to specification writing for building conservation. Although traditional building accounts for approximately a quarter of all buildings in the UK, the old skills and understanding required for their care and maintenance have been increasingly eroded over the last century. As the largest heritage charity in Europe, the National Trust has a first class reputation for high standards of conservation and care, and in this three volume set, the Trust brings together a remarkable pool of expertise to guide conservation professionals and students through the process of successful specification writing. This first book focusses on the materials used for the external fabric, detailing successful approaches employed by the National Trust at some of their most culturally significant sites. A range of studies have been carefully selected for their interest, diversity and practicality; showcasing projects from stonework repairs on the magnificent Grade I listed Hardwick Hall to the re-thatching of the traditional cottages of the Holnicote Estate. Complete with a practical Conservation Management Plan checklist, this book will enable practitioners to develop their skills, allowing them to make informed decisions when working on a range of project types. This is the first practical guide to specification writing for building conservation and the advice provided by the National Trust experts will be of interest to any practitioners and students involved in building conservation, both in the UK and beyond. Profits generated from the sale of this publication will go to the National Trust Building Apprenticeship Scheme. This provides placements for traditional skills at National Trust properties.

This concise guide to technical specifications leads the reader through the process of writing these instructions, with clear advice to help the student and professional avoid legal disputes or the problems caused by poor drafting.