How to Use MasterSpec: A Guide for Architects and Engineers

AIA MasterSpec® is a cornerstone in the architectural and engineering landscape, providing capabilities for developing standardized, high-quality construction specifications. With a vast library of over 900 pre-written specifications, MasterSpec streamlines the specification process, saving valuable time that would otherwise be spent creating construction documents from scratch. Additionally, it enables architects and engineers to focus on design innovation and effective project management, ensuring consistency and accuracy across various projects.

This educational article provides practical tips on how to use MasterSpec, guiding you to optimize its usage and improve specification writing.

At its core, AIA MasterSpec is a comprehensive library of pre-written standardized specifications covering a wide range of building construction and design elements. This vast repository encompasses divisions, sections and subsections, providing a structured framework for specifying materials, products and construction methods.

MasterSpec, a product of The American Institute of Architects (AIA), undergoes continuous updates to ensure its alignment with industry standards and meets the evolving needs of architects, engineers and other design professionals.

Deltek, a strategic partner of AIA, actively monitors industry standards, regulations and best practices to keep MasterSpec current. As part of Deltek Specpoint specification software, MasterSpec enables architects, engineers and design professionals to create quality specifications for their projects and streamline project execution.

One key benefit of using MasterSpec as part of Deltek Specpoint is its ability to help architects and engineers develop accurate and standardized specifications and maximize time savings for their projects. By utilizing the pre-written sections and subsections within the MasterSpec library, professionals can easily tailor individual specifications to meet their projects' specific requirements.

When developing specifications with MasterSpec, it is essential to carefully review and select the appropriate sections that align with the project's requirements. By customizing and fine-tuning the specifications, architects and engineers can ensure that all project stakeholders understand the materials, products and construction methods.

Below are guidelines to ensure the creation of clear, comprehensive and technical specifications using MasterSpec:

1. Understand the Project

Before writing the specification, thoroughly understand the project requirements, objectives and scope. Consult with the architect, designer, engineer or project manager. Review previous projects and gather necessary information to ensure clarity and accuracy.

Many design teams opt for the performance specification method when creating specifications, as it offers greater flexibility and fosters competition when selecting materials. Performance specifications focus on a project's desired outcome rather than prescribing specific materials, methods, or processes.

2. Use Specification Checklists

At the project's outset, the design team should refer to the MasterSpec Table of Contents to understand its standardized structure and organization of specifications. MasterSpec serves as a valuable checklist for project requirements, aiding in considering necessary work sections. By utilizing the MasterSpec Table of Contents, the design team assesses which work sections are essential. Subsequently, they identify specific divisions and sections within MasterSpec pertinent to the project, determining the scope of work, materials and specifications necessary for successful project execution.

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3. Tailor the Specifications

Utilizing MasterSpec as a foundation, the design team can tailor specifications to suit the project's requirements. This customization may reference relevant industry standards, codes, regulations and best practices.

MasterSpec fosters language, format and content consistency across various projects with standardized specifications. This consistency is essential for effective communication with contractors, consultants and other project stakeholders.

4. Be Clear and Consistent

Communicate your requirements clearly and concisely, using precise terminology. Organize the specifications into logical sections and subheadings for easy reference.

MasterSpec aids clarity and consistency with specifications through its structured framework and standardized content. By providing a comprehensive library of pre-written standardized specifications, MasterSpec ensures that language, format and content remain consistent across various projects. This consistency promotes clear communication and team collaboration among project stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors and consultants.

5. Include Relevant Details

The technical design should include all necessary details to clearly describe the client information requirements. This includes specifying materials, products, dimensions, performance criteria, installation methods and other specific requirements.

For instance, when specifying flooring materials for a commercial building project, the design team can refer to the relevant sections within MasterSpec. Here, they can find detailed specifications outlining the type of flooring material required (e.g., carpet, vinyl, hardwood), including specific product brands or manufacturers, dimensions, performance criteria (e.g., durability, slip resistance) and installation methods.

By leveraging MasterSpec, the design team can ensure that all essential details related to the flooring selection are clearly defined, effectively addressing client preferences and project requirements. This comprehensive approach streamlines the specification process and promotes consistency and accuracy in the final design documentation.

6. Reference Applicable Standards

Refer to your specification's relevant industry standards, codes, regulations and best practices. Standards help ensure compliance with accepted norms and facilitate consistent quality across projects.

MasterSpec provides access to a wide range of industry standards and regulations, making it easy to reference standards and incorporate them into your specifications. Examples of these industry standards and regulations are guidelines such as ASTM E84 for fire resistance testing of building materials or ASHRAE 90.1 for energy efficiency in building design, which ensure compliance and quality in construction projects.

At Henry Adams, an engineering consulting firm, upholding a commitment to quality in construction projects is crucial. Jeanne Tebera, PE, CFPS, Principal and Senior Electrical Engineer, underscores the importance of staying updated on evolving codes and regulations. Jeanne appreciates how she can streamline specification development, ensuring compliance with the latest industry standards with MasterSpec, powered by Deltek Specpoint.

7. Ensure Specifications Remain Current

Keeping specifications up to date is crucial to ensuring that projects are executed using the latest industry standards and best practices, minimizing the risk of errors or outdated materials. Additionally, updated specifications facilitate effective communication among project stakeholders, promoting clarity and alignment with project goals and requirements.

MasterSpec is regularly updated to incorporate changes in regulations, materials and construction practices, ensuring its relevance and accuracy.

Deltek collaborates with the MasterSpec Architectural Advisory Review Committee (MARC) and MasterSpec Engineering Review Committee (MERC), engaging in peer reviews of new MasterSpec sections and those slated for significant updates.

8. Use Proper Formatting and Organization

Use consistent formatting and organization throughout the technical specification: number sections and sub-sections for easy reference. Include a table of contents and a clear heading to help readers navigate the document.

Design teams can efficiently document specifications by utilizing a project manual. This predefined structure saves time that someone would otherwise spend creating specifications from scratch.

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9. Review and Revise

After writing the specification, review it carefully for accuracy, clarity and completeness. Revise as needed to address any inconsistencies or gaps. Seek input from relevant stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, or consultants, to ensure the specification meets the project requirements.

MasterSpec, available digitally through Deltek Specpoint, empowers architects and engineers to efficiently create accurate specifications, accelerating research, selection and writing processes.

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With Deltek Specpoint, Home of AIA MasterSpec®, you can make smarter product decisions and write accurate specifications with ease. How much more successful could your projects be with the right software?

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