When to Use Construction Specifications

NOTE-- We retired MacNail Spec Writer and the rest of the MacNail construction software, back in 2000. It has been replaced with Goldenseal, a complete software package for Macintosh and Windows that handles contract writing, plus accounting, construction estimating, and project management, Goldenseal writes construction contracts that are very similar to the ones produced by MacNail Spec Writer.

When to use Spec Writer

The Spec Writer creates contract documents, spec sheets and proposals for builders, remodelers, developers, architects, designers, subcontractors, and others in the construction industry.

Use the MacNail project management software whenever you need:

* A contract between builder and owner, between architect and owner, or between builder and architect.
* A subcontract between builder and subcontractor.
* Any other contract document between two or more parties involved in a construction project.
* A set of bid conditions that clarifies the scope and terms of a bid, rough estimate or proposal.
* A formal spec sheet that will be attached to a blueprint or contract to clarify the scope of work.
* An informal spec sheet that lists the scope of work in a project that doesn't involve a formal written contract.

Documents created by Spec Writer can be used in many different situations. If you are a builder, remodeler or general contractor, use Spec Writer:

* to clearly spell out what work you'll be doing when working directly with clients-- whether you use a formal contract, or an informal spec sheet.
* to clarify the scope of work when bidding competitively, or to attach conditions to your bid.
* to specify work for subcontracts after your bid is accepted, when you are acting as a general contractor and using the MacNail construction management software to help manage your projects.