Everyone is talking about early collaboration in design-build. So why are specifiers and estimators still missing from the conversation?
Fresh from the DBIA National Conference and VDC Leadership Exchange in Cleveland, Dave, Steve, and Elias challenge the industry's approach to project documentation. Steve even earned a Buzz Lightyear prize for raising the question no one seemed to be asking: Where are the specifiers?
From AI-generated RFIs to Systems and Performance Descriptions (SPDs), the team explores how earlier specification involvement can improve decision-making, reduce unnecessary documentation, and better support design-build delivery.
If collaboration is the goal, shouldn't everyone responsible for the construction documents have a seat at the table?
Specifications Are Missing from the Conversation
Early collaboration dominates design-build discussions, yet specifiers and estimators are often overlooked despite their critical roles in project documentation and decision-making.
Document Decisions Earlier
Systems and Performance Descriptions (SPDs) can capture design requirements, performance expectations, and decisions as they evolve, supporting more informed project delivery.
AI Needs Human Oversight
AI-generated RFIs and document reviews require validation and coordination. Without proper screening, they can create unnecessary work rather than improve quality.
Rethink Design-Build Specifications
Applying traditional design-bid-build specifications to design-build projects may introduce unnecessary administrative requirements, confusion, and risk. Documentation should reflect the delivery method.
Collaboration Requires Trust
Early involvement means more than bringing people together. It requires trusting project partners, recognizing their expertise, and moving beyond the mindset of “that's how we've always done it.”
If the industry wants better collaboration, specifications need to be part of the conversation from the beginning, not an afterthought.