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  • 1.  Specification Programs

    Posted 11-12-2021 09:36 AM
    Our office has been using eSpec that uses MasterSpec as a basis. The eSpec program is very buggy, and the folks there have not been responsive to our queries.  Is there another specification software program that any of you can recommend?

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    [E. Bradford] [Glellert] [AIA, NCARB]
    [Project Manager]
    [TDA]
    [Willoughby] [Ohio]
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  • 2.  RE: Specification Programs

    Posted 11-15-2021 05:32 PM

    We are having the most success with eSpec after trying SpecLink and one other whose name I don't remember. I can connect you with our spec writer, if you would like to ask any questions and/or swap stories.

     

    Kristian Kicinski AIA, LEED BD+C

    Associate Principal / Director of Sustainability

    (he,him,his)

     

    Bassetti Architects

    o 206 340 9500 / d  206 536 1370

    www.bassettiarch.com

     

    Need to send me files? Click here.

     




    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Specification Programs

    Posted 11-15-2021 07:59 PM
    We have used Visispec. It is an editor only so you would have to bring your own masters but it works great!

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    Andrew Queenan AIA
    Architect
    Pure Architects
    Hudsonville MI
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Specification Programs

    Posted 11-16-2021 10:23 AM
    We use BSD Speclink-E. It has it quirks like other systems but I think overall it has been decent to work with. It still allows you to import specs if you like. I believe BSD's base specs pare down/simplify the information vs Masterspec which is more detailed. That being said, if we feel we need more information or want it to read more detailed, the information can be added.

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    Sharon Day AIA
    Senior Associate
    GWWO Architects
    Baltimore MD
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    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Specification Programs

    Posted 11-17-2021 08:08 PM
    We use PlusSpec but it is different to a typical "spec creator" or manager as it is a BIM VDC design tool that delivers the products, brands and quantities in spreadsheet form. 

    The difference to say Espec or Master Spec is when you draw with PlusSpec it will deliver a BOQ that helps with our feasibility study & it's in in Spreadsheet form. Inside the spreadsheet, we remove all quantities and associate a specification from the most applicable reference: Nat Spec, Masterspec or Espec. 

    This process helps us ensure the specification is job-specific to each project instead of being generic We have found that contractors simply discount the validity of the spec when they find "generic specification information" & even though technically this is not our problem, our goal is to ensure the project runs as efficiently as possible.  

     I am happy to attach an example of the raw output if anyone wants to see a residential project? 
    I hope it helps.

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    Andrew Dwight
    Designer/BIM manager AAD Build
    BDM RubySketch
    Sydney Australia
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    Original Message


  • 6.  RE: Specification Programs

    Posted 11-19-2021 09:20 AM
    Andrew
    Would like to see an example. Struggling with Spec Lind.
    Thanks 
    Charlie Gutekunst AIA NCARB

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    Charles Gutekunst AIA
    President, RG Architects, PA
    RG Architects PA
    Fort Myers FL
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    Original Message