Specification Writing

Overview:

This course starts from first principles and takes the delegates through the key principles of writing specification. The course will explain how specifications fit into the construction process and explain the procedures to use for writing specifications. Throughout the course there will be interaction with opportunities for delegates to learn through workshop sessions.

Aims & Objectives:

To provide those attending the course with the tools and understanding to enable them to write clear and effective specifications.

Course Outline:

Session 1 - Introduction to specifications

  • Purpose of a specification
  • Contractual relationships
  • Types of contracts
  • Types of specification
  • Bonds and warranties
  • Workshop session

Session 2 - Procedures

  • Process of specification writing
  • Organisation and content
  • Scope
  • Good and poor practice
  • Use of computers
  • Workshop session

Session 3 - Writing Specifications

  • Simplicity
  • Language
  • Use of products
  • Spelling and grammar
  • Workshop session

Session 4 - Focus on performance specifications

  • Level of performance specification
  • Interfaces
  • Contractors proposals
  • Evaluation, monitoring and verification
  • Legal and insurance requirements
  • Approvals
  • Workshop session

Session 5 - Further specification issues

  • Building information modelling
  • Sustainability
  • Health & Safety

Intended For:

Engineers of all disciplines who are relatively new to their profession and those more experienced engineers who wish to refresh their specification writing skills. The course would also be suitable for project managers and procurement professionals who, though not necessarily directly involved in the writing process, have a need to understand the principles.