Custom CSI Spec Manual Template
Budget: $10,000 – $20,000 USD
I need an experienced U.S. architectural specification writer to develop a reusable master specification manual for our design firm. The manual must be organized in current CSI MasterFormat and tailored to the mixed-use projects we handle—primarily commercial with multifamily residential components. The primary objective is to condense the conventional format into an abridged manual that requires minimal editing from project to project, and will accompany a product & equipment schedule for each project.
Scope of work
• Produce a fully editable template that covers every customary CSI division for new construction housing and commercial projects such as shelters and community spaces. A simpler version for housing rehabilitation projects is also desired.
• Write clear, enforceable language that aligns with U.S. codes, industry standards, and typical owner/contractor expectations.
• Provide guidance notes within the document so my team can quickly delete, refine, or expand sections to suit individual projects.
• Include a short “How to Use” primer outlining version control, preferred editing workflow, and coordination tips for drawings and BIM schedules.
• Deliver the final manual in both Word and PDF, ready for immediate adoption.
What I’m looking for:
You should have a strong track record writing specs for mixed-use or multifamily developments in the U.S. and be comfortable with sustainable design references (LEED, WELL, or similar) when they apply. Familiarity with e-spec platforms such as BSD SpecLink or Deltek Specpoint is a plus, though the template itself will live in Word.
Timeline & collaboration
We would collaborate together to identify the right table of contents, and approach to condensed content based on some example sections we will provide for discussion. (we also have specs from some projects that include our standards that we can share). From there, we will identify priorities, timing for first drafts, and an overall project timeline and fee. Revisions will definitely be included.
Please provide your resume specific to preparation of architectural specifications, and a few paragraphs about you, how you work, and your willingness / ability to work creatively with us to customize these specs for our unique needs. Sample sections or past manuals you can share for context are also greatly encouraged.
Scope of work
• Produce a fully editable template that covers every customary CSI division for new construction housing and commercial projects such as shelters and community spaces. A simpler version for housing rehabilitation projects is also desired.
• Write clear, enforceable language that aligns with U.S. codes, industry standards, and typical owner/contractor expectations.
• Provide guidance notes within the document so my team can quickly delete, refine, or expand sections to suit individual projects.
• Include a short “How to Use” primer outlining version control, preferred editing workflow, and coordination tips for drawings and BIM schedules.
• Deliver the final manual in both Word and PDF, ready for immediate adoption.
What I’m looking for:
You should have a strong track record writing specs for mixed-use or multifamily developments in the U.S. and be comfortable with sustainable design references (LEED, WELL, or similar) when they apply. Familiarity with e-spec platforms such as BSD SpecLink or Deltek Specpoint is a plus, though the template itself will live in Word.
Timeline & collaboration
We would collaborate together to identify the right table of contents, and approach to condensed content based on some example sections we will provide for discussion. (we also have specs from some projects that include our standards that we can share). From there, we will identify priorities, timing for first drafts, and an overall project timeline and fee. Revisions will definitely be included.
Please provide your resume specific to preparation of architectural specifications, and a few paragraphs about you, how you work, and your willingness / ability to work creatively with us to customize these specs for our unique needs. Sample sections or past manuals you can share for context are also greatly encouraged.
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