Technology in Architectural Practice

 View Only

  • 1.  Specification software

    Posted 11-04-2024 02:53 PM

    Hi All,

    I'm looking into different specification applications that are on the market, which primarily focus on a MasterFormat style of specifications. Currently this is what I've been able to find:

    Some features I'm looking for are:

    • Ease of usability - how "clicky" is it. The less clicks the better. How easy is it to read, update, add, and delete sections. Can custom master specs be easily uploaded and referenced
    • Ease of collaboration - can a designer and spec writer get into the specs and collaboratively leave ask questions, leave comments, track progress and more
    • Cloud based - not a must but a nice to have
    • Secure - ability to keep data confidential. Measures to mitigate ransomware
    • API - nice to have an api to help extend or automate certain tasks
    • BIM integration - ability to connect to 3D models and 2D drawing to help keep the specs and model / drawings in sync with one another
    • Customer support - ease of firm wide rollout, customization if needed

    If you have used any of these, can you share your thoughts on the above? Pros and Cons. 
    Thank you.

    I've listed links below to some of my research

    I found a few others that are more in line with interiors scheduling for FF&E but don't quite conform to the MasterFormat style of specifications. 



    ------------------------------
    Charles Portelli AIA
    Perkins & Will
    NEW YORK NY
    ------------------------------


  • 2.  RE: Specification software

    Posted 11-04-2024 07:05 PM





  • 3.  RE: Specification software

    Posted 11-05-2024 02:58 PM

    Hello Charles!

    There is a great thread over on 4specs that discusses current spec software options: http://discus.4specs.com/cgi-bin/discus/show.cgi?23/9834 

    Note that e-specs mentioned in another comment is no longer offered; Deltek is transitioning all to Specpoint software, which uses AIA MasterSpec content. 

    I would suggest a demo from each company for you to compare and ask questions to find the right fit for your firm!

    Happy to chat more, feel free to message or email me with further questions! mfontenot@conspectusinc.com



    ------------------------------
    Melody Alisa Fontenot AIA
    Conspectus, Inc
    Portland OR
    ------------------------------



  • 4.  RE: Specification software

    Posted 11-05-2024 07:56 PM

    Though ARCAT isn't a spec editing software, it does facilitate product selection via its vast libraries of product information and data files (CAD, BIM, proprietary 3-part guide specifications).  For those who have yet to try it, ARCAT is free, comprehensive, and there are no registration requirements.  ARCAT indexes the contents of over 500 manufacturers' websites, and provides exclusive configuration/spec tools such as Outline and Short Form Specs, and its patented SpecWizard.  Most every frequently specified brand has content on the site, and we're always taking requests.  www.arcat.com.



    ------------------------------
    Brian Miller
    ARCAT Inc.
    Loveland OH
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Specification software

    Posted 11-07-2024 01:18 PM

    Thank you for your efforts. 



    ------------------------------
    Muhammad Benghali
    Senior Design Manager @ Dewan Architects + Engineers. PMP®, Assoc.AIA, LEED AP (BD+C)
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


Related Content