How Spec Writer Works

NOTE-- We retired MacNail construction software, back in 2000. Replacing it is Goldenseal, a complete software package for Macintosh and Windows that handles construction spec writing, plus accounting, construction estimating, and project management, You can get full construction contracts and subcontracts from Goldenseal, along with specification sheets, leases, and other legal documents.

Why Use MacNail Spec Writer

Spec Writer is designed specifically for creating construction contracts. To use the program, it helps to know a little about how how the MacNail project management software runs, and how it puts together contract and subcontract documents.

NOTE: Spec Writer is set up so it creates reasonable contracts right when you first use it. You can also customize the language it uses, and the way it handles allowances, prices, and other items.

Starting Spec Writer

Spec Writer works with the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet program, version 3.0 or greater. You must have Excel installed on your hard drive for Spec Writer to work.

To run Spec Writer, follow these steps:

1. If you have not done so already, install the program onto your hard drive. The installer will put a Spec Writer folder onto your hard drive as part of the MacNail construction management software.
2. Open the Spec Writer folder.
3. Double-click on the Spec Manager.
4. When Spec Writer opens, it will replace several of the regular Excel menus with its own Specs, Options and Navigate menus.
5. You'll now be ready to start using the program.