Title: Criteria for Modern Specifications and Control

Author(s): Edward A. Abdun-Nur and Lewis H. Tuthill

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 55

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 759-768

Keywords: no keywords

DOI: 10.14359/11387

Date: 1/1/1959

Abstract:
A philosophy of specification writing is advocated which will take full advantage of engineering knowledge, modern equipment and methods, and the statistical control of the end product. To accomplish this, "design criteria" for specifications, modeled after structural design procedures, are suggested. An example of design criteria making use of "self-functioning" features, automation, contractor motivations, end-product provisions, use of reference specifications, uniformity requirements, investigation of local conditions and practices, use of statistical methods, use of labor reducing features, elimination of expressions such as "approval of the Engineer" which cannot be evaluated by the bidder, and in general, deciding what is needed and requiring it clearly, is given. Realistic up-to-date specifications, trained and capable inspectors, and intelligent supervision by field engineers will result in maximum return for construction funds.