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NBS Chorus Plans and features Scope and Contents Book a demo Sign in to NBS Chorus NBS Source Browse by category Browse by manufacturer For manufacturers Go to NBS Source Uniclass Articles and updates Specifying with Uniclass Feedback and Support Find a code Other services Construction Information Service (CIS) NBS Schumann BIM New All tools

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Knowledge Case studies Updates Reports Digital Construction Report 2025 Building Safety Act White Paper Resources Sample Specifications Embodied Carbon Guide New Best Practice Guide to Specification Writing

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About

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Best practice guide to specification writing

A well-written and robust specification is vital to the success of construction projects. It can prevent project delays, unexpected costs, contract disputes and litigation. This is because it is the document that details every material, product, system and process that will be used.
Our Best Practice Guide to Specification Writing guide draws upon more than 50 years of combined experience from NBS and the team at NBS Schumann in order to help you get your specifications right.

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About the guide

The Best Practice Guide to Specification Writing aims to help architects, engineers, and construction professionals develop a robust, standardised approach to specifications.

It includes guidance on editorial style, classification systems, publishing and more to promote best practice principles across the construction industry.

It is a free download and is also customisable. This means that organisations can choose to include their own guidance and processes to create a bespoke quality-assurance document.

Download the guide

Who is the guide for?

Architects, engineers and other construction professionals looking for specification-writing guidance.

Construction design managers who employ architects and engineers on contractor-led projects.

Professional clients such as property developers, local authorities and university estates that are seeking consistency across multiple projects.

Students, teachers and lecturers in architecture, engineering and construction.

What's included?

  • Editorial principles for specification writing.
  • Classification systems and how to structure your specification.
  • Aligning specifications with agreed design responsibilities.
  • How to use specification reference codes.
  • Principles for publishing specifications.
  • Managing revisions and changes.
  • Using specifications for wider reporting.
  • Requirements for digital specification technologies, including NBS Chorus.
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