1. Preliminary Project Descriptions/Outline Specifications
ACT 380

2. Objective
Recognize the role preliminary project descriptions play in developing construction documents
Identify the format and when outline specifications are used
Become familiar with the content and appearance of shortform specifications

3. Preliminary Project Descriptions (PPD)
Occur during the schematic design phase
Clearly indicate the extent and relationship of the project components
The design team “thinks the project through” which allows changes made at a later time to be less disruptive to the ongoing design process

4. PPD Document should include information about:
Preliminary cost estimates
Time schedules
Value analysis (also known as value engineering) studies
Emphasis on describing the physical requirements of the project
May include performance criteria and product descriptions

5. PPD Format Uses Uniformat™ Organizes and defines major project:
Elements
Systems
Subsystems
See section and figure 4.8-A for example
See figure 4.8-B for a partial sample of a PPD

6. Outline Specifications (OS)
Record of the decisions about
specific materials
equipment
systems
methods
manufacturers
special fabrication requirements

7. OS Contribute to Accomplishing
Product decisions being made early
Recording of product selection and code requirements
Making cost estimates for controlling budget
Preparing time schedules
Assisting Owner in understanding proposed systems and materials
Coordinating construction documents
Preparing the project manual

8. Outline Specifications Format
Use Masterformat™ level-two (typical**)
Beyond just materials and manufacturers they can include material mixes, fabrication, finishes, installation, and application procedures
See figure 4.9-A for sample of articles
See figure 4.9-B for sample of outline specification
** may use levels three or four depending on material selected

9. Shortform Specifications
Often used on projects with a negotiated contract or design-build delivery method
Are less lengthy specifications than your project manual specifications---but provide a level of detail sufficient to complete a less complex project
Are LEGALLY enforceable (unlike Preliminary Project Descriptions or Outline Specifications)

10. When to Use Shortform Specs
Small projects
Design-negotiate-build projects
Construction management project delivery---use caution here
Design-build projects
Owner-build projects
Interior design and Tenant improvement
Single Prime contract
Projects where they are specifically requested

11. Shortform Samples See figure 5.14-C for article headings
See figure 5.14-D for example of a shortform section
See instructor provided sample:
FHA Form 2005/VA Form