Bringing together multiple elements to create one cohesive and comprehensive package, the quality of contract documents is critical when ensuring successful communication between the design team and the builders. The better they are, the more likely our projects will be “up to spec.” Specifications are an important component of these documents and they play an equally important role to drawings when ensuring a project’s success. Understanding what makes good Specifications is key to making sure your ideas get properly translated into built realities.
In the first of this two-part lecture series, Kiyoshi Kuroiwa and Kenny Tam of Construction Specifications Canada (CSC) will introduce the fundamental elements of contract documents, define specifications and their purpose, and review where specifications generally fit in the process. We’ll also explore more on the interconnectivity between drawings and specifications and the importance of precise format and language to ensure consistency in documentation. Finally, we’ll also touch specifically on how the specifications are used in construction by the contract administrator.
This lecture is ideal for emerging professionals looking to better understand the role of specifications and practicing professionals looking for a refresher on specifications fundamentals and best practices.
Part two of this lecture (coming in the fall!) will build upon the concepts presented in this session and look closer at what goes into the process of writing a specification, including the importance of understanding its content (products, applicable codes, and standards), procurement, and general requirements (Divisions 00 – 01), as well as how they relate to the overall contract.
Cost:
$15+HST General Admission, FREE for TSA Members!
TSA MEMBERS: This event is free for TSA Members using the discount code found in the TSA Bulletin and on your Member Dashboard! Not a member yet? Membership is open to everyone and you can join here (student memberships are free!).
OAA MEMBERS: This lecture is eligible for 1 OAA Structured Learning Hour with the Ontario Association of Architects. When registering, please include your full name as registered with the OAA to ensure your certificate of participation is credited properly. Please also include an email address you check frequently to ensure you receive your certificate in a timely manner.