CULTURAL ISSUE OF BIM & SPECS Part of the problem, Brian, is that older, more experienced architects and engineers understand more about specifications because they've been around longer and seen and learned what works and what doesn't. Much of BIM seems to appeal to younger, less experienced practitioners who aren't as knowledgeable about, or have as much interest in specifications.
CROSS-LEARNING SOLUTION TO ELIMINATE BARRIERS The key here is to have the more experienced Architects learn 3D/BIM and the younger BIM techies learn about specifications and why they are so important.
SPECNOTE™ SYSTEM In this regard, I have developed, over the last 30 years, an integrated numbered/abbreviated annotation system keyed to the paragraphs in my specifications. I call this my SpecNote ™ System. In this manner, whenever you use one of these annotations in Revit or AutoCad, they key to a short description on the drawing sheet, which in turn key back to the actual paragraph number in the specifications. In this way, the specifications and the drawings are linked together. Part of this solution includes having the specification sheets (which I call my A15 series) in the drawing sheets, so that they are part of the integrated package. Also, in residential design, using this method, the specs are never "forgotten" or "misplaced" as can happen with using a separate book.
REQUIREMENT FOR MORE INTEGRATED THINKING Continually coordinating spec notes requires more thinking and active vigilance to keep everything straight, but you end up with a much more coordinated set of documents. As a side benefit, the contractors can easily look at the note lists on each drawing (which are divided into a more traditional 17 Division CSI main note sections) and be able to understand what notes apply to what trades by Spec Division.
WORKS FOR COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE This system works well in all projects, including commercial. I have used it previously on large airport projects, high schools and others. I am sure there are other Architects using some version of this as well. It is a more organized approach than the typical helter skelter method of simply listing whatever note pops into each drafter's head as they draw and note features on the developing documents.
Works for me; it might work for some others as well. Thanks for asking. I wish you well in your efforts to improve this situation.
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Rand Soellner AIA
Architect/Owner/Principal
Home Architects
Cashiers NC
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Show Original Message
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Original Message:
Sent: 01-22-2013 13:33
From: Brian Skripac
Subject: The Future of Specifications (Free Webinar)
This message has been cross posted to the following Discussion Forums: Center for Integrated Practice and Technology in Architectural Practice .
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Project contract documents contain drawings and specifications. Yet the active industry discussion is about BIM (drawings) and almost no discussion about specifications. Surely there have been technology advances for specification authoring and linking to BIMs. Well-coordinated drawings and specifications reduce project risks. Is it possible to author specifications in parallel with design activities, providing critical data to designers to make well-informed decisions? This presentation is for all project participants responsible for authoring and coordinating project specifications.
CLICK HERE to learn more and register
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Brian Skripac Assoc. AIA
Director of Digital Practice
Astorino
Pittsburgh PA
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