Page 181 - TCDB combined Book

Chapter 3 DESIGN 157

Building Design:

Specifications:

Specifications prepared for submission with a Proposal should be in outline form. The
most common method would be based on the traditional system with each phase of the project
given a standardized designation four digit number code. Depending on the size and complexity of
your projects, the Outline Specifications should combine performance and scope. Unless
stipulated by the proposal requirements it is recommended that you refrain from using brand
names of products and services, while outlining the necessary parameters and performance
standards. Should there be professional design involvement from the beginning it may be advisable
to use the complete Performance Specifications available with this type of design service.
Remember to edit the content to suit the scope of work on your particular project. The Outline
Specifications should be titled and dated for each particular project. Although your specification
sheets may be from a previous project or an internal stock supply it is important to customize
your specifications for each proposal. All specifications submitted with your proposal should be
cross-referenced with any preliminary drawings being used for your presentation. Should there be
discrepancies noted during the sales presentation you must be prepared to identify the correct
document and immediately remove any uncertainty this can create with your client. When using as
a combination specifications and scope of work, clearly indicate any items that are not included in
the proposal. Items that would be in this category include work to be completed directly by the
client and any other items that are simply not included. It is not recommended to use the
terminology "by others" for not included items due to it's indefinite meaning. The client may
assume that the reference to "other" is someone under your scope of work such as a
subcontractor