A 3-Part Spec follows the SectionFormat requirements of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). SectionFormat divides each specification section into distinct 3 parts which include General, Products, and Execution.
Part 1 General: This section offers a comprehensive introduction, outlining the scope of work, defining key terms, specifying quality assurance standards, and detailing submission guidelines. It lays the groundwork for the subsequent detailed requirements.
Part 2 Products: This section provides info on the materials, equipment, and products slated for use in the project. It specifies manufacturers, delineates product attributes, outlines physical and performance benchmarks, and stipulates associated prerequisites.
Part 3 Execution: The concluding section describes the installation or application protocols, encompassing examination, preparation, installation, and confirmation of performance standards. Additionally, it addresses on-site quality control measures and the provision of services by manufacturers.
Apart from assigning a unique identity to each specification through the MasterFormat number and title, SectionFormat offers a standardized approach for organizing specification text within each section of the project manual. This structured format consists of three parts, ensuring consistency and clarity throughout the document.
MasterFormat
MasterFormat is a standard for organizing specifications and other written information for commercial and institutional building projects in North America. Sometimes referred to as the “Dewey Decimal System” of building construction, MasterFormat is a product of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) and Construction Specifications Canada (CSC).
MasterFormat provides a structured system for organizing information about materials, products, and construction processes in a consistent and logical manner. MasterFormat divides a construction project into a series of numbered divisions and sections, each addressing a specific aspect of the project, such as concrete, masonry, electrical systems, plumbing, and so on. This standardized format helps architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders communicate effectively and ensures that essential project information is organized in a way that is easy to understand and access.
Getting Your Product Specified
Building product manufacturers need to understand the specification process to get their products specified. To specify something means to identify it clearly, accurately, and thoroughly. In construction, specifications, often shortened to “specs,” cover various aspects. The spec book or Project Manual gathers these specifications, detailing every product, material, system, assembly, or equipment required for a project. This clarity ensures that procurement, manufacturing, fabrication, and subsequent installation or construction align with the terms of the contract.
Who is responsible for creating, reviewing, and requiring specifications? The process of developing specifications can vary depending on the specific procedures within each office, the extent of work undertaken, the number of specifications necessary, and the size of the AEC firm. In smaller firms, either a principal or a project architect might be tasked with drafting specifications.
Most specifiers typically rely on either an in-house “office” master specification that they have developed and regularly update, or they opt for one of the commercially available master guide specification products. Office master specifications serve as a central reference for construction projects within an organization or a specific industry. These specifications are typically developed and maintained by AEC firms to streamline the process of creating project-specific specifications.
A product specification identifies a particular product or type of product to serve as the foundation for design decisions. For instance, it may specify a particular brand of window or provide a list of several options that meet the design criteria. Understanding product specifications is crucial for building product manufacturers and their sales representatives. By training reps about specifications, manufacturers empower them to confidently convey product features and benefits, build trust with customers, and drive sales.
Building product manufacturers interested in developing product guide specs, AIA education courses, webinars, podcasts, or launching a specification program should contact www.ronblank.com