Deliberate Words: Recent Episodes

David Stutzman and Steve Gantner

by Conspectus, Inc. - decision managers, word masters, aggregators. There is tremendous power in a word that is perfectly placed at the best location, at the best time, during the design and construction process of a project. Deliberate words can manage success, build trust, and provide transparency that every member of the project team craves. As decision managers of the team, Conspectus explores the notion of how transparency transforms three main components of every project: behavior, content, and outcomes, through the appropriate usage of words. Behavior of every participant, is the foundation communication and collaboration, through deliberate words. It will transform the team, and build strong relationships.Content, the documentation built on these relationships, containing deliberate words, is then transformed.The outcome is a successful project, with a legacy of ultimate collaboration.Join us as we chat with members of the architectural, engineering, construction, and owner communities to learn how deliberate word shape their contributions, their projects, and their world! Through these conversations, words aggregate decisions, and transforms perspectives on transparency in the decision-making process.

What happens when the drawings and specifications don't agree?

In this episode of What a Week, the team tackles a seemingly simple contract provision with potentially significant consequences: giving drawings precedence over written specifications. Using real project examples involving roofing assemblies and window requirements, Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz explore how an order-of-precedence clause can resolve a conflict in a way the design team or owner never intended. Instead of prompting an RFI, the contract may effectively answer the question for the contractor, potentially leaving specified performance requirements or materials behind. The discussion explains the importance of treating drawings and specifications as complementary documents, questioning precedence clauses when they appear, and protecting the design intent through better-coordinated contract documents.

Terrazzo may be one of the longest-lasting flooring systems in the built environment, but restoring it is rarely straightforward.

In this episode, the team is joined by senior specifier Chris Ricke to discuss the unique challenges of refinishing historic Portland cement terrazzo, from matching decades-old materials and aggregates to deciding when restoration, patching, or contrasting new work is the better approach. Along the way, the conversation explores how resources like 4specs, industry associations, and early collaboration with specialty contractors can help project teams make better-informed decisions. It's a practical look at why preserving a century-old floor often requires as much expertise as installing a new one.

In Part 2 of their conversation with Adam Hutchinson, Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner take a deeper technical dive into the science, engineering, and long-term performance of masonry. With a strong emphasis on practical application, the discussion explores energy efficiency, fire resistance, seismic design, sustainability, thermal mass, lifecycle performance, and evolving building codes. They also examine how emerging technologies, robotics, and changing construction practices are influencing the future of masonry. Rich with technical insight and real-world examples, this episode is ideal for architects, engineers, specifiers, contractors, and anyone interested in how thoughtful material selection drives resilient, high-performing buildings.

Part 1: Built to Endure: The Value of Masonry

In the Mix: Masonry Podcast

Every week we're reminded that the construction industry is full of people willing to help, if we simply ask. In this episode, David Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz share how a few questions, suggestions, and manufacturer updates from the 4specs community led to new product listings, more accurate information, and better resources for everyone. It's a conversation about why no one person has all the answers, and how sharing what we've learned makes the entire industry stronger. If you've ever benefited from someone else's experience, this episode is a reminder that your knowledge can help someone else, too.

Join the discussion: https://forum.4specs.com/

Something as simple as a door number can have a surprising impact on an entire project.

It started with door hardware in a previous episode.....

This episode takes a look at the often-overlooked value of industry standards, beginning with a real-world challenge Dave Stutzman encountered while developing door hardware for a hotel renovation. What starts as a discussion about inconsistent door numbering quickly expands into a broader conversation about the National CAD Standard, the National BIM Standard, and why consistency across drawings, schedules, and documentation matters. The team explores how standardized practices simplify quality control, improve coordination, reduce rework, and make life easier for architects, specifiers, contractors, and manufacturers alike. It's a reminder that standards aren't about adding rules. They're about eliminating unnecessary complexity so project teams can spend less time searching for information and more time delivering quality projects.

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, this episode steps back from day-to-day project challenges to ask a bigger question: Are we designing buildings to stand the test of time? Using examples ranging from Roman aqueducts and Brunelleschi's dome to Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater and today's healthcare facilities, the conversation explores how owner expectations, material choices, maintenance, adaptability, and construction methods influence a building's longevity. Rather than focusing solely on durability, the discussion considers whether today's projects are designed for decades, centuries, or simply the next renovation cycle. It's a thoughtful reminder that longevity isn't accidental. It's the result of deliberate decisions made long before construction begins.

What if one of the construction industry's oldest building materials is also one of its most forward-looking?

In this episode, Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner sit down with Adam Hutchinson, Executive Director of the Northwest Masonry Institute, for a conversation that goes well beyond brick and block. Together they explore the people, organizations, and technical expertise that quietly support one of the world's most enduring building systems, while asking an even bigger question: how can a fragmented industry unite to better educate, advocate, and innovate?

From resilient schools and energy-efficient envelopes to restoration, workforce development, certification, and building code leadership, the discussion reveals why masonry continues to solve modern challenges despite often being overlooked in contemporary design conversations. Adam also shares his ambitious vision for connecting regional organizations into a coordinated national network that strengthens technical knowledge, supports designers where they need it most, and ensures decades of hard-earned expertise are not lost.

This episode is a reminder that great buildings are more than the materials they are made from. They are the product of generations of craftsmanship, shared knowledge, and an industry willing to invest in its own future.

In the Mix Masonry Institute Podcast

Snowflake Masonry Industry Organization Chart

Specifying door hardware is far more complex than selecting hinges and locks. In this episode, Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz unpack the coordination, technical decisions, and collaboration required to design building openings that are secure, code-compliant, functional, and maintainable. From lock types and closers to electronic access control and owner standards, they explain why door hardware touches nearly every discipline on a project. The conversation also highlights why successful hardware specifications begin with early planning, clear operational intent, and close coordination between architects, security consultants, owners, manufacturers, and hardware specialists.

Elias Saltz, Steve Gantner, & David Stutzman discuss the technical and contractual realities of delegated design. Using examples such as curtain walls, stairs, railings, and fire protection systems, the discussion explores how design responsibility is shared between the design professional and specialty contractors. The conversation clarifies the distinction between delegated and deferred design, examines why delegated design submittals should be treated as action submittals, and highlights a critical principle: delegated design transfers detailed engineering, not design intent. Successful delegated design depends on clearly defined performance criteria, active review of delegated assumptions, and alignment between the project's requirements and the final engineered solution.

This week on What a Week, Dave Stutzman reports live from the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design 2026 exhibit floor in San Diego, where Conspectus is showcasing its services, software, and the ever-popular I ❤️ Specs / I 🤮 Specs campaign. They discuss the growing interest in specifications among architects, students, and manufacturers, along with signs that the profession is gaining greater visibility within the architectural community. From conversations about specification education and industry outreach to booth traffic, swag strategies, and the enduring appeal of puppies on the trade show floor.....get an inside look at the AIA conference experience, hear how architects are responding to specifications today, and learn why education, outreach, and visibility are creating new opportunities for the specification profession.

This week on What a Week, Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner explore the growing role of AI in design and construction workflows and the unexpected challenges that come with it. Sparked by real-world examples from both the industry and Conspectus, the conversation examines how AI can generate convincing but inaccurate RFIs, cite standards that do not exist, and create additional work for project teams trying to separate fact from fiction. While AI can be a valuable tool for research, coordination, and product evaluation, the discussion serves as a practical reminder that human expertise, critical thinking, and verification remain essential. If you've wondered whether AI is saving time or creating new risks, this episode offers a timely reality check.

LinkedIn Post referenced: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7467699501432979457/

Learning Points

Industry Insight
AI is quickly becoming part of design and construction workflows, but its outputs are only as reliable as the data, prompts, and human oversight behind them.

Practice Takeaway
Always verify AI-generated comments, RFIs, and research before acting on them. A confident answer is not necessarily a correct answer.

Process Lesson
AI can identify potential discrepancies between drawings and specifications, but it cannot replace the coordination conversations needed to resolve them.

Risk or Opportunity
Unchecked AI can create costly distractions by generating references to non-existent standards, code sections, or requirements that project teams must then investigate and disprove.

People & Culture
The most effective professionals will not be those who avoid AI, but those who know how to use it responsibly while applying experience, judgment, and critical thinking.

Technology Perspective
AI is a powerful assistant, not an accountable team member. Responsibility for decisions, interpretations, and project outcomes still belongs to people.

“AI can accelerate the work, but it cannot replace the expertise needed to distinguish useful information from confident-sounding fiction.”

Where 4specs.com is headed.....

In this episode, Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz provide a behind-the-scenes look at what's happening with 4specs following its acquisition by Conspectus. The conversation explores the future of the platform, planned improvements to the discussion forum, and efforts to modernize the user experience while preserving the community and knowledge base that have made 4specs a trusted resource for decades. They also discuss how the site continues to serve as a valuable research tool for architects, specifiers, contractors, and manufacturers, and why many younger professionals may be missing out on one of the industry's most useful resources. The overarching theme is simple: preserve what works, improve what matters, and strengthen the industry's collective knowledge through community participation.

Learning Points

Industry Insight:

Many newer design professionals are unfamiliar with 4specs, despite its long-standing role as one of the industry's most comprehensive manufacturer research directories. Preserving and promoting trusted industry resources remains important as knowledge transitions between generations.

Practice Takeaway:

4specs can be an efficient tool for finding alternate manufacturers, researching products, identifying specification section relationships, and locating manufacturers for public bidding requirements.

Process Lesson:

Community knowledge is often as valuable as product information. The planned migration of the 4specs forum aims to preserve decades of industry discussions while creating a more accessible and modern platform for collaboration.

Risk or Opportunity:

Aging technology can put valuable industry knowledge at risk. Modernizing platforms before they fail creates an opportunity to improve usability, expand participation, and preserve institutional knowledge.

People & Culture:

The future vision for the 4specs community extends beyond architects and specifiers. Bringing contractors, manufacturers, and design professionals into the same conversation can create a richer exchange of practical knowledge and problem-solving experience.

Looking Ahead:

Upcoming enhancements include a new discussion forum platform, improved manufacturer listings, automated reporting tools, AI-assisted content management, and expanded opportunities for industry engagement.

"We don't want to charge for the community. We want to grow the community."

Five-Word Takeaway:

Preserve knowledge. Expand the community.

What if the industry’s definition of an “emerging professional” is already outdated?

In this episode of Deliberate Words, Dave Stutzman sits down with Sophie Dalton and Obed Eriza to explore what growth, expertise, and career development really look like in the world of specifications. Coming from two very different backgrounds, Sophie and Obi share how curiosity, research, networking, and continuous learning shaped their paths into the profession and continue to influence the way they approach projects today.

The conversation dives into everything from learning specifications “backwards,” engaging with contractors and product reps, and navigating the growing role of AI, to a deeper discussion about how the industry defines experience itself. Is a “young specifier” really about age...or about proficiency, exposure, and evolving knowledge?

Together, the group challenges traditional labels and explores whether the profession needs a new framework for understanding growth in specifications, mentorship, and technical development. It’s a thoughtful and forward-looking discussion about the future of specification practice and the people shaping it.

This episode gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential technical communities in the specification profession. It explores why organizations like Specifications Consultants in Independent Practice matter, how specifiers stay current on evolving standards and systems, and why relationships with manufacturers remain critical to delivering better construction documents. Whether you are a seasoned specifier, emerging professional, architect, or manufacturer rep, the conversation highlights the technical knowledge-sharing, industry collaboration, and professional connections that help move projects and the profession forward.

Learning Points

Industry Insight
Organizations like Specifications Consultants in Independent Practice remain critical for helping specifiers stay current on evolving standards, systems, and technical practices.

Practice Takeaway
Strong relationships with product representatives are essential to effective specification writing, especially when evaluating compatibility, performance, and constructability.

Process Lesson
Understanding ASTM standards beyond the title alone can significantly impact specification accuracy and help avoid inadvertently proprietary requirements.

Risk or Opportunity
As building systems become more integrated, the risk of incompatibility between adjacent products and assemblies continues to grow, making collaboration and technical education more important than ever.

People & Culture
SCIP’s value goes beyond education credits. The conference creates a unique environment where specifiers, consultants, and manufacturers openly share knowledge, challenges, and solutions.

This week on What a Week, Dave Stutzman sits down with two of Conspectus’s emerging professionals, Obed Eriza and Sophie Dalton, to explore the unconventional paths that led them into specifications. Coming from architecture, welding, project management, and even English literature backgrounds, both guests discuss how specifications became the intersection of problem-solving, communication, and continuous learning. The conversation dives into the challenge of learning construction “backwards” through completed designs, the importance of networking through organizations like CSI, and how younger professionals are thinking about the future of specifications in an AI-driven industry. Rather than fearing technology, they see AI as a tool that will reward professionals who know how to guide, review, and apply it intelligently. The episode offers an optimistic look at the next generation of specifiers and the evolving skills shaping the profession.

This week, we welcome a special guest from the Conspectus team - senior specifier Jay Bethel. We chat about his unusual path into specifications. Jay moved from hands-on construction and historic restoration into construction administration, then ultimately into the world of specs nearly two decades ago. That field experience still shapes how he works today, bringing a contractor’s mindset to design decisions, constructability reviews, cost awareness, and real-world practicality. The discussion also explores productivity, concise writing, the evolution of specification tools, and why the best specifiers never stop learning from what gets built in the field. Along the way, Jay shares stories from swing scaffolds, deer-filled commutes, and life as a longtime working musician. It’s a reminder that great specifiers are often built from diverse experiences, not linear résumés.

Learning Points

Industry Insight
Some of the strongest specification professionals come from construction backgrounds, where installation realities and field sequencing are second nature.

Practice Takeaway
A contractor’s lens can improve design outcomes by challenging impractical details before they reach the field.

Process Lesson
Good specs are not about more words. Clear, concise, coordinated language often performs better than bloated documents.

Risk or Opportunity
When teams ignore constructability and cost during design, problems simply wait until bidding or construction to surface.

People & Culture
Different backgrounds strengthen firms. Designers, builders, administrators, and technical writers each see risks others may miss.

Rowan Georges joins us as a collaborator extraordinaire at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), where he helps engage and inspire generations of designers across one of the world’s most influential firms. Rowan connects people, information, materials, and decisions across project teams, transforming complexity into coordinated action and the exceptional documents for which SOM is known.

A passionate advocate for design intent, Rowan believes specifications are far more than paperwork at the end of a project. To him, they are a living thread woven from concept through construction, telling the story of why we build, how we build, and what systems and materials bring vision into reality.

Where relationships, technical knowledge, innovation, and architecture intersect, Rowan often stands at the center, helping teams turn bold ideas into executable outcomes. In this episode, he shares his vision for a more collaborative future where architects, specifiers, contractors, manufacturers, and owners work from the same playbook to create smarter processes, stronger partnerships, and better buildings.

Spring doesn’t just bring thunderstorms, it signals the start of product show season across the industry. This week, the team compares experiences from traditional trade show floors to structured “speed dating” events like CSI Chicago’s CSI2eye. Steve Gantner, Elias Saltz and Tina Montone chat about how architects, specifiers, and manufacturers navigate the sometimes awkward dance of engagement, whether walking the floor or working a booth. From eye contact and first lines to deeper technical conversations, the episode reframes product shows as more than swag and small talk. At their best, they become a two-way exchange of knowledge, where product reps and specifiers collaborate to solve real project challenges. The takeaway is clear: meaningful engagement, not just attendance, is what turns these events into valuable project resources.

Learning Points

Industry Insight
Product shows are evolving from passive exhibits into active, curated engagements, especially with formats like scheduled one-on-one sessions.

Practice Takeaway
Don’t overthink the approach. A simple “tell me what’s new” or “how should I specify this?” opens the door to valuable technical insight.

Process Lesson
Early and direct conversations with product reps can refine specification decisions faster than independent research alone.

Risk or Opportunity
Missed engagement is missed intelligence. Walking past a booth might mean overlooking a solution to a current or future problem.

People & Culture
The best interactions happen when both sides drop the script. Authentic curiosity from attendees and genuine responsiveness from reps build lasting relationships.

Quote Worth Repeating

“Product reps are my number one resource right behind the internet.”

This episode reframes supply chain not as a downstream construction issue, but as a design constraint that must be addressed early. Late-stage decisions on equipment and systems often collide with real-world lead times, forcing redesign, substitutions, and schedule impacts. The discussion highlights how integrating market awareness, contractor input, and early equipment selection into the design process can reduce uncertainty and improve alignment. Strategies such as pre-purchasing and locking in long-lead items shift risk forward, allowing the rest of the design to develop with clarity. The takeaway: when supply chain is treated as a design input, not a surprise, projects are better positioned to meet schedule, budget, and performance goals.

Learning Points

Industry insight:
Supply chain challenges can be the result of late design decisions, shifting the burden from design teams to contractors during construction.

Practice takeaway:
Identify long-lead items early and consider strategies such as pre-purchasing or early procurement to maintain project schedules.

Process lesson:
Engaging contractors and leveraging their knowledge of market conditions during design improves decision-making and reduces uncertainty.

Risk or opportunity:
Failing to address supply chain constraints early can lead to redesign, delays, and cost escalation, while proactive planning creates opportunities for schedule and budget control.

People & culture:
Stronger collaboration between designers, contractors, and owners early in the process leads to more informed decisions and better project outcomes.

This episode dives into the familiar specifier experience of going down the research rabbit hole, or as the team calls it, “squirreling.” What starts as a simple product lookup can quickly turn into chasing ASTM references, code citations, performance data, and manufacturer documentation that leads in unexpected directions. Product research used to be limited to curated catalogs, while today’s unlimited online access makes it easy to keep digging long past the original question. Deep research builds expertise, but it can also consume time and distract from decision-making. Dave, Steve & Elias share how these detours often uncover useful knowledge that benefits other projects and reinforces the specifier’s role as a technical resource. The takeaway is not to avoid “squirreling,” but to recognize when it’s productive learning and when it’s simply wandering.

Learning Points

Industry insight:
Product research has expanded dramatically with online resources, increasing both opportunity and information overload for design and specification teams.

Practice takeaway:
Start product research with trusted directories like 4specs.com, the Specifier Portal, or known sources to avoid unnecessary time spent chasing irrelevant information.

Process lesson:
Following references such as ASTM standards and code citations can reveal critical requirements, but teams should define when research has reached sufficient depth for decision-making.

Risk or opportunity:
Excessive research can delay progress, yet strategic “squirreling” builds knowledge that improves future specifications and problem-solving.

People & culture:
Specifiers often serve as knowledge hubs for project teams, using accumulated research experience to guide architects, engineers, and owners toward informed decisions.

This episode explores a recurring request from design teams: generating submittal, QA, and other specification-based reports. The discussion questions the actual purpose of these reports and whether they provide meaningful value. While potential uses include internal review of required submittals or cross-checking contractor submissions, the conversation highlights significant challenges. Inconsistent formatting across consultant specifications, variations in CSI section organization, and reliance on automation all make accurate report generation difficult. The team also considers whether AI could extract submittal data, but notes similar reliability concerns. Ultimately, the episode raises a larger issue: relying on reports as shortcuts may discourage teams from actually reading the specifications. The conversation ends with an open challenge to the industry to reconsider why these reports are requested and whether they truly improve project outcomes.

Learning Points

Industry insight:
Requests for submittal and QA reports are common, but the intended purpose and value of these reports are often unclear.

Practice takeaway:
Before generating specification-based reports, teams should define how the information will be used and whether it improves coordination or decision-making.

Process lesson:
Automated report generation depends on consistent formatting across specifications, which is difficult to achieve when multiple consultants contribute content.

Risk or opportunity:
Using reports as checklists outside the specifications may discourage thorough review of the actual project requirements and lead to missed coordination issues.

People & culture:
Questioning long-standing practices, such as requesting submittal reports, encourages more thoughtful workflows and better engagement with the specifications.

Design intent is the governing framework of a project, yet it is often compromised as it moves from concept through construction.

In this episode of Deliberate Words, Ben Caldwell, Director of Specifications at the Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), joins Dave and Steve for a discussion on how design intent can be systematically preserved through documentation, alignment, and early-stage decision-making.

The conversation examines the role of narrative-based specifications, the continued relevance of UniFormat as a systems-based approach, and the value of integrating estimating insight earlier in the process. Rather than treating documentation as a downstream technical exercise, Ben positions it as an active instrument for conveying intent, coordinating systems, and enabling informed decisions. Drawing from BIG’s global practice, the discussion challenges conventional methods and reframes specifications as a critical medium for translating design into constructed reality, with a brief but memorable aside on the unlikely inspiration of a well-crafted banana split.

This episode offers a rare peek behind the curtain at how a specification platform is developed by the very practitioners who use it every day, experienced specifiers who write construction documents and coordinate design intent on active projects. Rather than a traditional software roadmap, the conversation reveals how real project challenges, user feedback, and daily workflow friction drive feature development. The team discusses how even seemingly simple ideas require extensive “what-if” discussions, technical evaluation, and collaboration with developers. A current effort to enable multi-firm collaboration highlights the complexity behind decisions that affect document control and shared content. What makes the discussion unique is hearing specifiers: Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz explain how their real-world experience shapes the evolution of the tool. The result is a candid look at how practical project needs translate into software features designed to support better collaboration and documentation.

Learning Points

Industry insight:
Developing tools for construction documentation is inherently iterative, shaped by real project use rather than a fixed roadmap.

Practice takeaway:
User suggestions, real-world workflows, and day-to-day friction points are often the strongest drivers for meaningful feature improvements.

Process lesson:
Even small feature requests can create cascading impacts, requiring extensive discussion, prioritization, and testing before implementation.

Risk or opportunity:
Without careful evaluation, new features can disrupt existing workflows; thoughtful development creates opportunities for better collaboration and efficiency.

People & culture:
Open dialogue between users, specifiers, and developers encourages transparency and leads to more practical, usable solutions.

This episode explores the idea behind the Design Intent Gap and why ambiguity in construction documentation continues to create confusion across the industry. The conversation centers on the premise that design intent should be treated as a clear project deliverable, not something implied through drawings and specifications. When the reasoning behind decisions is not documented, contractors, estimators, and suppliers are left to interpret the intent themselves, which can lead to inaccurate pricing, unnecessary value engineering, and misaligned expectations. The team discusses how documenting system requirements, performance criteria, and the rationale behind decisions provides transparency and keeps project teams aligned as design evolves.

Dave Stutzman calls on the industry to rethink how design intent is captured so projects can move forward with greater clarity, collaboration, and confidence ➡️ Design Intent Gap

Learning Points

Industry insight:
Ambiguity in design documentation forces contractors, estimators, and suppliers to fill in the gaps, often leading to inaccurate pricing and unnecessary project friction.

Practice takeaway:
Treat design intent as a formal deliverable that records decisions, criteria, and the reasoning behind them.

Process lesson:
Documenting system requirements and performance criteria early creates a transparent decision trail that prevents teams from revisiting previously resolved design questions.

Risk or opportunity:
When design intent is not clearly documented, projects risk redesign, delays, and budget impacts. A structured framework for capturing intent improves collaboration and supports better decision-making across the team.

People & culture:
Transparency around design decisions builds trust across architects, engineers, contractors, and owners, helping the entire team move forward with shared understanding.

Quote worth repeating:
“If it’s not documented, it’s not designed.”

Five-word takeaway:
Document intent. Eliminate ambiguity.

This episode explores a frequently overlooked factor in building design: the influence of property insurance requirements on construction documents and specifications. The conversation was sparked by a real project situation where FM Global entered the process late and issued extensive design comments after specifications were already underway. The team discusses how insurers often impose performance standards that exceed building codes, affecting materials, assemblies, and system design. When those requirements are discovered too late, the result can be costly redesign, coordination issues, and project delays. The key takeaway is simple but critical: identify the owner’s insurer early and communicate those requirements to the entire project team. Doing so helps prevent late-stage redesign, protects document coordination, and allows the building to be designed for risk performance from the start rather than corrected later.

Learning Points

Industry insight:
Building codes establish minimum life-safety requirements, but property insurers often require higher standards to reduce loss risk from fire, wind, flood, or structural failure.

Practice takeaway:
Design teams should ask early in the project who the building’s insurer will be and obtain any applicable guidelines or requirements before design decisions are finalized.

Process lesson:
Insurance requirements affect multiple disciplines, including roofing systems, exterior wall assemblies, fire protection, and structural design. Communicating these requirements across the entire design team is critical.

Risk or opportunity:
Late discovery of insurance requirements can trigger redesign and coordination problems. Addressing them early can reduce project risk and potentially lower insurance premiums for the owner over the life of the building.

This episode centers on renewed interest in System and Performance Descriptions (SPDs) as a structured way to document design intent earlier in the project lifecycle. Dave shares how initial skepticism often turns into clarity once teams see how SPDs organize information and capture what is known, when it is known, without defaulting to copied narratives or premature material decisions. The discussion highlights the limitations of traditional design narratives and the risks of compressed schedules that push coordination downstream into construction administration. The team explores how SPDs can support collaboration with contractors, estimators, and owners, reduce RFIs and substitutions, and even serve as construction specifications in certain delivery models. At its core, the conversation frames SPD not as a new burden, but as a practical shift toward clearer thinking, earlier alignment, and fewer surprises in the field.

Learning Points

Industry insight: There is growing appetite across the AECO industry for clearer, earlier documentation of design intent that bridges design and construction.
Practice takeaway: Document systems first. Define what assemblies must do and why before locking into specific products or materials.
Process lesson: Structured system descriptions improve coordination, reduce presuppositions, and allow meaningful contractor and estimator input during design.
Risk or opportunity: The risk is continuing compressed, reactive workflows that generate RFIs and rework. The opportunity is minimizing construction administration effort through deliberate early alignment.

This episode reinforces a simple but powerful idea: clarity early costs less than correction later.

This episode was sparked by a familiar and uncomfortable question: should you copy a specification section from a prior project, or start from scratch? Steve Gantner, Elias Saltz, Dave Stutzman explored why “copy-paste” has become such a common criticism from contractors and why that perception exists in the first place. They unpacked the risks of inheriting outdated codes, discontinued products, and mismatched scope, especially when prior edits and deletions are invisible. At the same time, they acknowledged the realities of practice, where templates, masters, and institutional knowledge can be powerful tools when managed correctly. The conversation ultimately reinforced that credibility, coordination, and project-specific thinking are what protect both the documents and the firm’s reputation.

Learning Points

Industry insight: Contractors notice when specifications feel recycled. “Copy-paste” documents erode trust and signal a lack of coordination.
Practice takeaway: If you reuse content, treat it as a template, not a finished product. Read it line by line against current drawings, codes, ownership, and site conditions.
Process lesson: Masters and maintained templates are safer than copying entire project manuals. Controlled updates reduce the risk of generational errors compounding over time.
Risk or opportunity: The risk is hidden liability, outdated requirements, and reputational damage. The opportunity lies in disciplined document management that strengthens accuracy, efficiency, and confidence across the project team.

In the end, the consensus leaned toward a simple principle: best practice is to start fresh, or at least review as if you did.

Colin Gilboy, founder of 4specs.com, sat down with Conspectus executives David Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz in Orlando, FL to button up the final details of its acquisition and share something bigger with the industry, his retirement. We were able to capture a glimpse of that moment and the conversation behind it.

For decades, 4specs.com has been a steady compass for product and manufacturer research in the AECO world. Colin talks about how it started, why he built it, and the simple principle that guided it from day one: give people honest, useful information and let the quality speak for itself.

There is a long history between Colin and Dave, built on respect and a shared belief that better education, transparent knowledge, and strong community connections lead to better projects. This episode feels less like a transaction and more like a passing of the torch.

This Deliberate Words episode captures a lively conversation between Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner of Conspectus and their guest, Tucker Beech, a third-year (of six) Drexel architecture student who first connected with Dave after he guest-spoke to a Drexel class about specifications.

Tucker shares the origin story of her architecture obsession, from a custom-built childhood home and a fifth-grade “intro to architecture” project (complete with a too-small-to-compete fire station model) to being inspired by travel and historic architecture in Europe. She talks candidly about what architecture school is really like, pushing back on the all-nighter myth and emphasizing time management, work-life balance, and personal safety when commuting late in Philadelphia.

A key theme is humility and learning from others. Tucker recounts advice from an architecture camp: never assume you know more than the people doing the work around you. Steve reinforces it with a story from his father (a bricklayer) and explains how that mindset shaped his approach to construction administration.

Professionally, Tucker is exploring “architecture-adjacent” paths that still use her strengths, especially building codes, specifications, and technical observation. She lights up describing how specs let you read a room through details (like recognizing an acoustically sensitive space by door hardware), and the group connects the dots between code knowledge and strong spec writing. Steve encourages her to take business classes if possible, noting how valuable that foundation is in practice.

The episode also has plenty of personality: a running gag about technical glitches, a spirited “cheese drawer” debate (Midwest pride), and Tucker’s other signature interests (dogs, ducks, pumpkins, and dreams of pumpkin chunking with trebuchets).

They close with the show’s “five words or less” question. Tucker’s answer: “providing hope, safety and security to all.” She ties it back to her goal of eventually designing residential projects that give others the same sense of belonging she felt growing up. Dave and Steve wish her luck, invite her to stay in touch with spec questions, and give a light-hearted “hire Tucker” shout-out to listeners in the Philadelphia area.

Steve Gantner, Elias Saltz, and Tina Montone attended the CURT National Conference in Orlando, Florida in early February 2026 and returned with a clear throughline from the conversations taking place across the conference. In this discussion with Dave Stutzman, they reflect on how AI, data centers, power infrastructure, and construction productivity are no longer separate topics, but deeply interconnected forces shaping the future of project delivery.

As data centers continue to be built at unprecedented speed, demand for reliable, redundant power is rising just as quickly. At the same time, AI is emerging as a practical tool to improve construction productivity not by pushing crews to work faster, but by reducing rework, improving information flow, enhancing safety, and accelerating knowledge transfer across generations.

Despite the momentum, significant challenges remain. Regulatory complexity, labor shortages, and long-term declines in U.S. construction productivity continue to strain the industry. A consistent theme throughout CURT was the need for earlier collaboration and better alignment of data across design, construction, and procurement as a pathway to reducing inefficiencies and building long-term industry resilience.

Key Takeaways

Industry Insight:
AI, data centers, power availability, and construction productivity are no longer separate issues, they are part of a single, interdependent system shaping project delivery.
Practice Takeaway:
Productivity gains will come less from working faster and more from eliminating rework, improving information accuracy, and getting the right data to the right people earlier.
Process Lesson:
Early alignment of design, construction, and procurement data is essential to reducing RFIs, delays, and downstream inefficiencies.
Risk or Opportunity:
AI presents a significant opportunity to offset labor and productivity challenges, but only if paired with reliable power infrastructure and disciplined implementation.
People & Culture:
Technology will not replace experience; the real value lies in using AI to capture, transfer, and amplify human expertise across generations.

In this episode, Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz tackle a deceptively simple question that carries real contractual risk: Where should reference standards live in the specifications, and should they be dated? Reference standards belong in Part 2 of the technical sections, not in consolidated lists. Avoid listing dates unless a specific edition is required by code. Rely on Division 01 Quality Requirements to govern which standards apply. Saying things once, in the right place, reduces conflicts, RFIs, and unnecessary risk.

Learning Points Industry insight: Reference standards create more risk through duplication and dating than through omission when they are not placed intentionally. * Practice takeaway: Keep reference standards in Part 2 of technical sections and let Division 01 govern applicability to avoid conflicts. * Process lesson: Saying things once, in the right place, is the simplest way to improve clarity and reduce downstream rework. * Risk or opportunity: Eliminating dated, consolidated reference lists reduces RFIs and protects the contract from unnecessary ambiguity. * People & culture:* Good specifications reflect disciplined thinking, shared responsibility, and respect for how teams actually use the documents.

A conversation captured at the Construction Users Round Table.

CURT members don’t gather to admire the industry as it is, we gather to challenge it. Throughout the year, owners come together to wrestle with contracting strategies, team dynamics, technical risk, global pressures, and the realities shaping how projects actually get delivered.

This is the Deliberate Words podcast, In this episode, I’m filling in for David Stutzman and joining Steve Gantner, leaders in Conspectus, the specification company….where words have a power that can create trust, transparency, and transform the process and can significantly impact the success of a construction project and team!

At the September 2025 member meeting, we had the opportunity to bring The immersive collaborative experience to the room. LEGO bricks on the table, assumptions off the table. What followed wasn’t just a workshop, it was dialogue. Candid. Constructive. Occasionally uncomfortable in the best way.

Sitting down afterward with CURT members: Herb Strong of HazTek, Andy Browning and Fred Marsh of Duke Energy, and Nicholas Johnson of Kahua as participants, critics, colleagues, and friends reminded us why these conversations matter. As presenters, the feedback was invaluable. As CURT members, the reflection was even more powerful.

And this is just the beginning.

Next up: the CURT National Conference in Orlando, February 3rd. The conversations continue and only get better.

In this week's episode, Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz unpack a deceptively simple question with serious implications: Why don’t we recommend requiring manufacturer instructions as a submittal? What follows is a candid discussion on liability, means and methods, and the unintended consequences of asking for information that design teams neither control nor should be reviewing during construction. From informational submittals to samples that add little value, the team reinforces a core principle of good specification practice: clarity during design reduces risk, rework, and unnecessary burden during construction administration.

Learning Points:

Requesting manufacturer instructions as a submittal can increase architect liability, even if reviewed “for record only.”
Simply receiving information implies responsibility to review, identify errors, and act on them.
Manufacturer instructions fall squarely within contractor means and methods, not design review.
Submittals are not contract documents and should not be used to tweak design decisions late in the process.
Fewer, more intentional submittals save significant time and cost during construction administration.
Product compatibility issues must be resolved during design, not after bidding or procurement.
Over-specifying submittals often exceeds realistic CA budgets and site observation scope.
Clear specifications reduce change orders, finger-pointing, and downstream risk.

This episode is sparked by a simple question that opened a much bigger reflection: why Conspectus started, and how it became what it is today as the firm enters its 33rd year. David Stutzman shares how the company was born out of economic uncertainty in the early 1990s, when necessity, planning, and a leap of faith converged into a new kind of specification practice. The conversation traces the firm’s evolution from a one-person operation to a multi-disciplinary team, highlighting how organic growth, culture fit, and relationships shaped that journey. It also explored the intentional five-year succession plan now nearing completion, showing how shared leadership has eased pressure while sustaining momentum. The discussion ultimately tied growth, technology, and people together as drivers of more resilient firms and better project outcomes.

Learning Points

Industry insight: Independent specification consulting has matured from solo practices into scalable, collaborative firms.
Practice takeaway: Sustainable growth often comes from relationships and timing, not rigid expansion plans.
Process lesson: Gradual succession planning allows knowledge transfer without overwhelming new leadership.
Risk or opportunity: Investing in internal tools can evolve into platforms that strengthen both services and business development.
People & culture: Hiring for fit and capability, rather than preset criteria, builds resilient and diverse teams.

In this year-end episode, the Conspectus team (David Stutzman, Elias Saltz and Steve Gantner) reflect on the signals, surprises, and steady momentum that defined 2025 while looking ahead to what 2026 may hold. Despite mixed economic indicators, Steve & Elias observed increased proposal activity, strong demand in sectors like data centers, logistics, healthcare, and multifamily housing, and a continued rise in design-build delivery.

Conferences—particularly DBIA (Design Build Institute of America) —highlighted growing industry alignment around early collaboration, UNIFORMAT-based thinking, and clearer documentation of design intent. The conversation also underscored the importance of people: emerging professionals, cross-discipline partnerships, and a shared commitment to strengthening the specification community so projects better serve owners’ goals and business cases.

Learning Points

Market signals don’t tell the whole story: Even with a negative ABI (Architectural Billing Index), proposal requests and active projects increased across several sectors.
Design-build continues to gain traction: Growth in DBIA membership and RFPs (request for proposals) reflects a broader shift toward earlier contractor involvement and cost-informed design decisions.
Early communication protects design intent: Regular design updates paired with contractor feedback help maintain alignment between intent, budget, and constructability.
Next-generation talent is a bright spot: Students and young professionals are entering the industry with curiosity, advocacy, and a desire to improve how buildings are delivered—not just designed.
Specifications are expanding in scope and influence: Adding engineering expertise and strategic partners enables more comprehensive, coordinated, and current project documentation.
Collaboration reduces downstream risk: Contractor-driven requests around BABAA (Build America, Buy America Act) compliance revealed the need to address regulatory and sourcing requirements earlier in the process.
A connected community is the goal for 2026: Stronger relationships among owners, designers, contractors, specifiers, and manufacturers lead to better outcomes—and better repeat projects

This episode dives into a raw and timely conversation sparked by changes to federal student loan caps and the emotional response they triggered within the architectural community. Guest, and Conspectus specifier from VA, Hana Nguyenky, unpacks why the debate struck such a nerve, arguing that the real issue isn’t whether an architecture degree is labeled “professional,” but whether the profession is willing to confront the growing disconnect between education costs, licensure paths, and financial reality.

The discussion exposes deep frustrations around identity, value, and fairness in architecture, questioning long-held assumptions about schooling, professional status, and success. Rather than offering easy answers, the episode challenges listeners to sit with the discomfort and consider whether defending tradition is distracting the industry from addressing access, equity, and long-term sustainability.

Specs Beyond Borders explores what it really takes to deliver construction specifications on large, globally distributed projects. In this episode of Deliberate Words, senior specifier Jim Robbins joins hosts Dave and Steve to share lessons learned from coordinating complex documentation across multiple time zones, design firms, and project packages.

From managing communication hierarchies and maintaining consistency across dozens of deliverables to navigating metric conversions, performance-based specifications, and evolving collaboration workflows, Jim offers practical insight into how international work magnifies the everyday challenges specifiers face. The conversation highlights why early coordination, clear expectations, and adaptability are essential tools for success—no matter where a project is located.

This episode tackles confusion around roofing sustainability metrics. Steve breaks down the difference between solar reflectance (SR), emissivity, and solar reflectance index (SRI), explaining how SR and emissivity work together to calculate SRI and why mixing all three in a specification can create conflicts. The team discusses how different programs like LEED, ENERGY STAR, and CalGreen use different metrics, which fuels misunderstanding. The takeaway: understand which system applies, say it once in the right place, and use tools like the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab SRI calculator to clarify data gaps and keep specs aligned with performance goals.

A group of very excited and curious students came up to our booth at the DBIA show, originally attracted to the I 💗 Specs/I 🤮 Specs messaging. But quickly revealing a genuine hunger to learn from every company in the exhibit hall.

Selena Fullone, Connor Welsh, Jessica Budd, Fernanda Ceja and Owen Lantiegne are from Alfred State College, part of SUNY in Alfred, NY. They were in Las Vegas in early November to attend the Design Build Institute of America National Conference. They were in the top 3 of 35 teams that made it to the finals of the national student competition focusing on the design build approach. Their energy is contagious. Their ambition is impressive. Their hunger to learn and make a difference in the industry is so inspiring. Join your hosts Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner as they realize just how bright the future is for our industry with Owen, Fernanda, Jessica, Connor and Selena leading the way.

This episode tackles a big industry gap: architecture schools barely teach specifications, even though they make up half of real-world construction documents. Dave, Steve, and Elias compare their own “learn-it-on-the-job” experiences with new efforts at Drexel and WashU, where students finally get a taste of Uniformat, MasterFormat, and the fundamentals of spec writing.

They highlight how Conspectus is training the next generation—using markup reviews, real drawings, and hands-on mentorship—and emphasize that great specifiers don’t need to start as architects. Roofers, English majors, contractors…all are welcome if they love details, problem-solving, and how buildings actually go together.

The takeaway? Specs deserve a place in architectural education—and in more career paths than people realize.

This episode tackles a common problem: a LEED consultant trying to insert the same generic sustainability language into every spec section. Elias explains why this is bad practice—specs should say things once and in the right place, with global requirements in Division 1 and technical details in the individual sections.

The team walks through:

Why duplicating language across sections creates confusion and conflicts
How outdated LEED practices still influence consultants
When sustainability requirements should live in Division 1 vs. the technical specs
Ensuring VOC limits, EPDs, and HPDs are accurate, achievable, and coordinated
The importance of upfront research so the specs are actually biddable

Consensus: The LEED consultant should write the sustainability section, but the specifier shapes it so it's clear, modern, and correctly located. Good coordination leads to cleaner documents and fewer RFIs.

Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz discuss this weeks upcoming trip to the DBIA (Design-Build Institute of America) Conference in Las Vegas, where Conspectus will sponsor the Virtual Design Leadership Exchange and present on the value of engaging specifiers early in design-build projects.

Explore how design-build delivery differs from traditional methods and why it’s crucial for specifiers to be involved from the start. Design-builders, who oversee both design and construction, can benefit from structured specifications that align the entire team—owners, architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers—around shared project goals.

A key topic is the use of UNIFORMAT®, a system that organizes project information by assemblies and systems rather than individual components. Learn how this simplifies communication, supports “continuous estimating,” and reduces documentation bloat—transforming thousand-page specs into concise, 30-page system summaries. This approach enables informed decisions, real-time cost alignment, and risk reduction by ensuring everyone understands and agrees on project requirements as they evolve.

They also emphasize the importance of collaboration, transparency, and permanent project records. By tracking decisions digitally within one shared environment, teams can avoid confusion, eliminate rework, and mitigate claims.

Listen for a special cameo from Steve’s dog, Paisley.

Key Takeaways:

Early specifier involvement strengthens design-build outcomes.
UNIFORMAT fosters clear, system-based collaboration and reduces rework.
Continuous estimating and transparent documentation help manage cost and risk.
Teamwide buy-in—including facility managers—ensures practical, maintainable results.
Building a permanent project record promotes accountability and project-first behavior.

🎙️ CSI National Recap: Cleveland, Connections & Curiosities

Where specs met stories, friendships, and curiosity took center stage.

In this lively episode of What a Week, the Conspectus team takes a break while specifiers Terumi Woods, Melody Fontenot, and Hana Nguyenky share their experiences from the CSI National Conference in Cleveland.

They reflect on the best parts of the week — reconnecting with colleagues, celebrating new CSI Fellows, and diving into sessions that inspired both seasoned pros and emerging specifiers. Highlights included the keynote “How to Be More Interesting Than a Cell Phone,” discussions on whole building testing, social media for specifiers, and a surprisingly fascinating look at phenolic deck work.

From Conspectus Cloud socks and face cookies that stole the show, to unexpected discoveries about Cleveland’s glass-blowing culture and Superman roots, the trio captures the fun, energy, and connection that define CSI.

It’s a celebration of people, learning, and city vibes — proving once again that when specifiers come together, the stories write themselves.

This week on What a Week, Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Elias Saltz tackle the overlooked world of record documents—the official proof of what was actually built.

They ask the hard questions:

Are record documents truly updated during construction—or thrown together at the end?
Why are drawings kept current but specifications ignored?
Do owners even care about them after handover?
And what happens when architects don’t enforce those Division 01 requirements?

Key takeaways:
✅ Record documents are a shared responsibility—but rarely verified.
✅ Ignoring specs creates liability for architects.
✅ Owners who use record docs for maintenance and compliance gain lasting value.

In short: everyone wants the “as-built,” but few ensure it’s accurate.

Steve Gantner and Dave Stutzman talk with Jared Bilsak, a licensed architect and haunted house owner, about the intersection of architecture and Halloween attractions. They explore the origins of Jared's passion for haunted houses, the challenges he faced in establishing the Lincoln Mill Haunted House, and the unique backstory that adds depth to the attraction. The discussion also touches on the impact of Hurricane Ida on the building and the extensive restoration efforts required to transform it into a haunted house.

Fantastic footage of the story (and secrets) behind Lincoln Mill: https://www.youtube.com/@lincolnmillhaunt

Chapters

00:00 The Excitement of Fall and Haunted Houses
02:52 The Backstory of Lincoln Mill Haunted House
06:03 From Childhood Passion to Professional Attraction
08:41 Building a Haunted House: The Journey
11:29 Overcoming Challenges: Hurricane Ida and Renovations
14:36 The Evolution of a Haunted Attraction

In this episode of What a Week, Dave Stutzman and Elias Saltz unpack a full-circle moment for Conspectus and the broader specification community — how the Pennsylvania Department of General Services (DGS) has officially adopted a UniFormat-based Project Design Criteria requirement, seemingly inspired by Conspectus’ paper Evolving Specifications.

The Surprise from DGS

Dave shares the backstory: after presenting to DGS in 2024 about Uniformat and sharing Evolving Specifications, he recently discovered that DGS now mandates architects to submit Project Design Criteria documents organized by Uniformat — language and structure closely mirroring the Conspectus approach.

UniFormat™ as the Common Language

Dave and Elias dive into why this is a smart move:

UniFormat aligns perfectly with Revit/BIM assemblies and estimators’ frameworks, creating one-to-one consistency between model, description, and cost.
The system encourages early, structured documentation that can evolve throughout the design process, leading to better-informed cost analysis and decision management.

Alternates, Value Engineering, and Smarter Budgeting

DGS’s policy also introduces a structured method for alternates, requiring three cost-reduction options at 5% each. Dave critiques the rigidity of forcing alternates in order, suggesting a more strategic approach:

“Why not price viable options early, balance the budget, and eliminate the need for alternates altogether?”

He references independent estimator Marcine Taylor, who once delivered a hospital project within 2% of her eight-year-old estimate — proof that disciplined, early cost alignment works.

The Role of Conceptual Estimators

Elias and Dave stress that subcontractors often price what’s drawn, while conceptual estimators price what’s needed. Engaging estimators from the start helps owners and architects make realistic budget decisions — and reduces the endless value-engineering loop.

From Design Criteria to OPR

The hosts envision DGS’s design criteria as a proto-Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) — a living foundation for scope, cost, and performance. Over time, this could evolve into a powerful database for cost benchmarking and assembly-level decisions across project types.

A Win for Clarity and Collaboration

Ultimately, DGS’s adoption of UniFormat isn’t just a technical change — it’s a validation of transparent, data-driven specification practices.

Dave applauds the department for “formally adopting a process that defines intent and criteria early — not as a throwaway outline, but as the backbone of design documentation.”

Conspectus already delivers this kind of document daily — and we’re ready to help bring that experience directly to DGS projects.

Key Takeaway

Early alignment between design, cost, and intent eliminates chaos later.
Uniformat isn’t just a framework — it’s a roadmap to smarter, more predictable building outcomes.

Duke Energy’s Andy Browning joins Dave and Steve to unpack how a modern utility balances today’s demand spikes—especially from data centers—with tomorrow’s low-carbon grid. Andy traces his path from Babcock & Wilcox field engineer to Duke’s GM of Engineering & Construction Services, explains why Duke runs an “all-of-the-above” strategy (gas as a bridge, batteries for flexibility, solar growth, hydro upgrades), and makes the case that nuclear—both large units and SMRs—will anchor long-term reliability. The trio dig into dam stabilization, battery use cases (peak shaving and PV smoothing), project timelines and costs, community engagement, and how policy and tariffs shape what actually gets built. They close with a look at fusion research and a rapid-fire on bourbon, woodworking, and what fuels resilience.

Key Takeaways

Career & scope: Andy oversees engineering, construction, commissioning, quality, safety, and project controls for Duke’s big builds.
Cultural lesson: International work taught him to respect local pace and processes—context changes what “top priority” means.
Hydro safety: Post-FERC reviews are driving earthen-dam rebuilds (compaction, drainage layers) to prevent liquefaction under seismic events.
Resource mix: Duke is pursuing gas, nuclear, solar, hydro, and batteries; offshore wind unlikely near-term given costs and policy headwinds.
Batteries’ role: Great for peak shaving and smoothing solar variability; typical systems are 2–4-hour duration (e.g., 10 MW / 40 MWh).
Scale & siting: Solar needs ~6–10 acres per MW and only delivers during daylight; data centers requesting 400–1,000 MW reshape planning.
Timelines & costs (rule of thumb): Batteries ~12–15 months after development; solar similar; combined-cycle gas ~4 years; nuclear 10+ years.
Cost reality: A 75-MW solar site ≈ $100–150M; a 1,000-MW gas plant ≈ ~$2B; nuclear is multiples beyond—but with long lifespans.
Nuclear outlook: Expect SMRs + large reactors; challenges include qualified supply chains, workforce, and public education; existing units targeting 80-year life via extensions.
Data-center surge: Demand is soaring; innovative financing/ownership models (e.g., behind-the-meter, cost-sharing) may protect retail customers.

If your specs are old enough to drink - it's time up update them!

In this episode, Steve Gantner and Elias Saltz dive into the evolution of MasterFormat®—from the old five-digit, 16-division system to today’s six-digit standard. They reflect on why the shift in 2004 was necessary, breaking overcrowded divisions like Mechanical and Electrical into clearer categories and expanding site and infrastructure work into the 30s. Learn about upcoming 2025 updates.... including new divisions for tunneling, roadways, and airport construction, plus refinements in areas like resilient flooring.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the CSI/CSC volunteer task team process, where anyone in the industry can suggest changes, and how those ideas are reviewed, debated, and voted on. The conversation highlights both the importance of keeping classification systems current with modern construction practices and the inevitable resistance to change—reminding us that progress always comes with a little pushback, but ultimately benefits the industry.

This week, Dave and Steve dive into a hot topic straight from a recent webinar: how to coordinate drawings and specifications without drowning in overly detailed keynotes. The presenters challenged the traditional “say it once in the spec” approach, suggesting more specific material notes on drawings—but Dave and Steve push back.

Together, they explore why over-detailing on thousands of sheets can cause conflicts, RFIs, and confusion. Instead, they highlight the power of structured specification language, the “residuary legatee” method, and the classic CSI principle: say it once, say it in the right place. The result? Cleaner drawings, better coordination, fewer headaches for architects, contractors, and owners alike.

And of course, they keep it light—debunking old habits, joking about Elias’s “lobotomy,” and reminding us all to keep it simple (KISS).

What happens when OSHA and IBC don’t see eye to eye?
In this episode of What a Week, Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner dig into the tug-of-war between safety codes and building codes. From fall protection on high-rises to stair loads, mezzanines, and roof hatches placed a little too close to the edge, the conversation tackles the gray zone where compliance, liability, and human responsibility overlap.

Is it the architect’s duty, the contractor’s job, or the owner’s call? .....The answer isn’t so simple. Tune in for a candid take on navigating conflicting requirements and why code minimums are just the starting point.

In this week’s What a Week, Dave Stutzman, Elias Saltz, and Steve Gantner dive deep into the power of Uniformat-based System and Performance Descriptions (SPDs)—what CSI calls Preliminary Project Descriptions (PPDs). The team reflects on a recent session with Chicago-based Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB), who have been using PPDs since 2014, and compare SCB’s “master document” approach with Conspectus’ method of building each SPD from a clean slate.

They unpack how adding elements like basis of design, references, history, and alternatives strengthens decision-making, avoids costly rework, and preserves the project record across rotating teams. The conversation highlights the benefits of tying Uniformat systems to MasterFormat sections, the risks of pushing specs too early, and how SPDs can streamline pricing, coordination, and owner approvals.

The episode closes with a provocative idea: what if a Uniformat-based SPD became the single project document, start to finish? With fewer RFIs, slimmer spec sets, and a clearer trail of decisions, the team makes the case for embracing SPDs as more than “preliminary”—they can be the backbone of an entire project.

In this What a Week episode, Dave Stutzman, Elias Saltz, and Steve Gantner tackle the hot CSI forum debate over “basis of design.” They explore how architects often anchor specs to a single product while allowing equivalents, but warn this can easily slip into a stealth proprietary spec—like when elevator shafts only fit one manufacturer. They stress the importance of consistency across Division 1 requirements, technical sections, and owner standards, and note that overly narrow performance criteria can also exclude competition. Alternatives such as early collaboration and pre-purchasing equipment can streamline decisions and avoid long lead times. Ultimately, the team advises using basis of design sparingly and intentionally, with full awareness of its implications—because as Steve quips, the right answer is often, “it depends.”

When it comes to weather-resistant barriers, can a factory-coated OSB panel really stand up to the elements? In this week’s discussion, Dave, Steve, and Elias break down a hot topic from LinkedIn—untreated fasteners in coated OSB WRB panels—and why small installation missteps can lead to big moisture problems. From swelling and mold to vapor drive and double vapor barriers, they explore the risks, alternatives, and “belt-and-suspenders” strategies that keep water out for good. Whether you’re in blazing heat or frigid ice rink conditions, one truth stands: shed the water to the exterior.

In this episode, the Dave Stutzman, Elias Saltz, & Steve Gantner explore the risks of a custom parapet detail on a seven-story building, where an eyebrow design made of ACM panels is used. They discuss the potential challenges this unique feature poses, especially in terms of wind resistance, drainage, and long-term durability.

The conversation highlights the importance of ensuring compliance with ANSI SPRY ES1 standards for wind load resistance and the potential consequences of relying on sealants for waterproofing. The team also emphasizes how architects can mitigate these risks by working with manufacturers who offer tested, engineered solutions.

Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that while custom designs offer creative possibilities, they must be approached with careful planning, testing, and collaboration to ensure a safe, efficient, and successful project.

When a Proposal Request Takes a Turn
Steve thought it was a straightforward call—a request for a proposal to write specifications. But what started as a typical inquiry quickly veered into unexpected territory. In this episode, we unpack the twists, the questions behind the questions, and what it revealed about the real needs of the project team, and why a systems performance description (SPD) was the perfect fit.

Zoomed Out or Dialed In? Broad vs. Narrow Scope Specs in Construction

When it comes to construction specifications, how much detail is too much—or not enough? In this episode, we unpack the tension between broad scope and narrow scope specs. Should specs paint the big picture or drill down into every nut and bolt?

Greg Holness wears two powerful hats—engineer and attorney—and he’s spent over 30 years walking the fault lines of construction projects gone sideways. From root cause analysis to expert witness testimony, he’s called in when things don’t go according to plan—whether it’s delays, design flaws, scope creep, or flat-out contract chaos.

But here’s the twist to Greg’s story: he’s not just about pointing fingers. He’s a big believer in resolution over litigation—and he’s got the scars (and stories) to prove it.

In this episode, we’ll unpack how construction disputes unfold, what makes a project truly risk-resilient, and how owners, designers, and contractors can all better navigate the unexpected.

Let’s get into with our hosts Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner as we Navigate Through Construction Claims & Conflict with Greg Holness.

Tune in as Elias Saltz, Executive Vice President and Senior Specifier, recaps the Master Specifier's Retreat in Milwaukee, WI in July, 2025.

👉What is his perspective of this event?
👉Who did he meet?
👉What is new in the industry?
👉Should you join CSI?

To spec or not to spec....or HOW to spec.

Architects & Hazardous Waste: Proceed with Caution

AI's Next Asbestos

Whose responsibility is the waste?

Should the architect and specifier be aware of it?

How should you document it?

From a 14 year old kid bending sheet metal in his family's basement, to receiving a lifetime achievement award at 70 years old, Dick Bus of ATAS International, breaks down how to help build the metal industry.

In this episode, Dick breaks down what it takes to build more than just a successful business. It's about investing in relationships, technology, and education—laying the groundwork not only for growth, but for lasting impact across the metal envelope industry.

Dick shares how healthy competition inspired collaboration, how he read the market to drive product development, and how his greatest secret is surprisingly simple: LISTEN.
Listen to the architect.
Listen to the installer.
Listen to the distributor.
Listen to the industry.

Let’s get into the episode with David Stutzman and Steve Gantner as they chat with Dick Bus and learn more aboutwhen you truly hear what’s being said—and combine it with experience, intuition, and trusted relationships—You go from breaking metal, to building a legacy.

What do muscle cars and global procurement have in common? According to Kevin Batche, Vice President of Procurement at IPS (Integrated Project Services)—quite a bit. It’s all about timing, control, and having the right engine under the hood when the road gets unpredictable, like the current climate with global tariffs.

Kevin is a mechanical engineer by trade and a Penn State graduate. His early career in the steel industry in western Pennsylvania laid the groundwork for a transition into the pharmaceutical sector—just as the industry began tightening capital project constraints. That real-world experience fuels his ability to lead multi-national teams through complex, high-stakes projects with clarity and precision.

In this episode, Kevin shares what it takes to navigate the current climate of construction material procurement. While the chaos of past supply chain crises may have eased, tariffs and other uncertainties continue to keep the AECO industry on high alert. Manufacturers are at a crossroads—debating whether to shift operations stateside or remain abroad. And owners? They’re no longer idling. They’re asking sharper questions and demanding more agile strategies to keep projects moving without delay.

Buckle up. This conversation brings horsepower, strategy, and hard-earned insight to the fast-moving world of global procurement.

What happens when you grow up in manufacturing surrounded by sheets of glass, the hum of cutting tools, and a father with a vision? You don’t just learn the business—you reshape it.

In this episode, we sit down with Chris McGrory of McGrory Glass—a company that’s shattered expectations (and a few stereotypes) since its humble beginnings in 1984. From decorative and architectural to ballistic and fire-rated, Chris has taken the family trade far beyond the showroom—into the realm of safety, performance, and systems-based thinking.

This isn’t just about panels and partitions. It’s about innovation that protects people, enhances design, and pushes the boundaries of what glass can do. McGrory Glass isn’t just keeping up with the industry—they’re helping define it.

So if you think glass is just for windows… think again. Let’s get into it with Chris McGrory learning how shattering expectations happens in the glazing industry.

One Hard Hat – The Concept that Built Air Products air and gas separation unit featuring Kevin Sell and Brandon Jordan from The Kwest Group

What does it take to deliver a world-class facility? A willing owner and a passionate contractor team—fully aligned under one vision.

This is the Deliberate Words podcast, hosted by David Stutzman and Steve Gantner, leaders in Conspectus, the specification company….where words have a power that can create trust, transparency, and transform the process and can significantly impact the success of a construction project and team!

In this episode, Kevin Sell and Brandon Jordan from Kwest Group break down the story behind Air Products’ new air and gas separation unit in Wilson, Arkansas and how the One Hard Hat concept made it possible. They share both the qualitative insights and the hard data behind this groundbreaking project—and, most importantly, how this success can be repeated.

This isn’t just a feel-good story. Project Summit, the formal report on the construction of Air Products'' facility is not anecdotal—it's proof. It shows what’s possible when full collaboration, absolute trust, and a deep commitment to safety, health, and quality come together on a jobsite.

Check out these results:

88% boost in site productivity
10% drop in cost
80% fewer safety incidents
92% coordination and collaboration across the board
Zero re-work
Zero team turnover

Yep—zero.

The roadmap is there. Kevin and Brandon are here to tell us how the team did it, and what it really looks like when everyone shows up wearing One Hard Hat.

We found a kindred spirit with Matt Brennan- host of the podcast “What the RFI” with his ambition to improve project documentation and construction administration (CA) through that oh-so critical practice of communication!

This is the Deliberate Words podcast, hosted by David Stutzman and Steve Gantner, leaders in Conspectus, the specifications company….where words have a power that can create trust, transparency, and transform the process and can significantly impact the success of a construction project and team!

Beyond his podcasting success, Matt is an architect, a construction administration enthusiast, and a product specialist with Part 3, a software solution designed for the architectural community. The simplify CA by bringing consultants, owners, and contractors together—providing the tools, insights, and collaboration that empower teams and drive informed decision-making. Yes! That’s what we’re talking about!

This collaborative language has no borders, from British Columbia to the Jersey shore Matt, Steve, and Dave reveal ways to reduce RFIs, love your project team, and ultimately enjoy life! Listen in on this fast-paced, nugget-filled, super-fun episode of Deliberate Words, and “Keep Exploring, Keep Communicating”!

As a new year kicks off, it is natural to look ahead with a bit, or a lot, of uncertainty. What risks lie ahead and how can they be managed? We invite Michael Dubreuil, managing partner of PTAG, to join us on to the show. He works on projects that can span decades!

In this episode, Michael dives into collaborative contracting, which basically is IPD (integrated project delivery) on steroids. This powerful method of contracting provides balance, stability, and trust in the project team, providing confidence in risk sharing and management. Have you ever wondered how oil and gas projects, or nuclear projects get built? Let’s learn how MEGA collaboration on MEGA projects defines certainty in any situation.

The idea of a good owner is more than just a philosophical idea or an anecdote. It is the member of the project team, who is intentional, aware, and deliberately behaves with responsibility to create a positive influence and success on the project. Jack Mumma is that owner.

Jack, educated in philosophy and law, is the Executive Director of Construction and Facilities Strategic Acquisitions at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. His unique blend of legal expertise and philosophical insight sheds light on what it truly means to be a "good owner" in the realm of construction projects and beyond.

Jack is guided by a powerful mantra: "Trust More. Expect More Value."—a philosophy that reimagines how we approach collaboration, accountability, and excellence in complex undertakings. Whether you’re managing a construction project, leading a team, or simply striving to bring out the best in others, Jack's perspective will leave you with invaluable lessons on trust, integrity, and achieving meaningful results.

Tune in as Dave Stutzman and Steve Ganter explore Jack's journey, his ideals, and how applying principles of trust and high expectations can transform not just projects, but also relationships and outcomes. Welcome to The Profile of a Good Owner on this episode of Deliberate Words.

Sourcing product information can be tedious, time consuming, frustrating! Conspectus has been using 4specs.com for decades, and a reliable directory for information. No, this is not an infomercial. Instead we reveal the solution to the ongoing quest many are on to find a quality resource of building product content and manufacturers.

Whether he's on a journey to connect with fellow ham radio operators or gathering insights for the specifying community, Colin Gilboy enjoys a good quest. Decades ago, he recognized that finding reliable, up-to-date product information is essential for creating timely and accurate project specifications. This understanding led him to create 4specs.com—a directory that conveniently catalogs building product manufacturers and is continually updated to provide specifiers with a current, trusted resource.

Today, we dive into the story behind 4specs, a pioneering website that has transformed how professionals research building product manufacturers. Whether you're on the side of searching or on the side of being found, this episode is for you!

Does the construction industry need more attorneys, or do we simply need contractors to better understand the construction contract process? Josh Levy, CEO of Document Crunch and an attorney, believes it's all about understanding the process rather than hiring more lawyers. He offers deep insights into how they are helping project teams navigate the complex area of construction contracts.

Many individuals are passionate about improving the construction industry through their expertise. In this episode, you will feel Josh's immense passion for making the industry safer and better through risk assessment and the negotiation process of construction contracts. Think it sounds dull? Trust me, this episode is anything but! Josh openly admits he's not a tech guy, even though Document Crunch is a leading AI company. For them, technology is secondary to solving contract compliance issues in the construction industry. We MUST reduce risk through proper assessment, understand proper negotiations, and educate project teams on contract obligations. How can the project team be supported? Let's dive into Dave and Steve’s conversation with Josh Levy to find out how Crunching Contracts is the Intersection of AI and Assessing Risk.

Saddle up for high stakes and hard hats! Ken Stonecipher, corporate director of construction for Global Gaming Solutions joins us to chat about what its like to build in the world of casinos, with Native American tribes.

As a true-blue rodeo guy, with a long career in construction, Ken knows a bit about risk and safety, culture and community, teamwork and coordination, and most importantly preparation. All of these play critical roles in running casino and racino projects for the Global Gaming Solutions. Join us as we uncover the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into building these type of projects, and learn how the land impacts how they function, as well as what it does for the tribal community. There is a lot more to a casino project than security and design, and precise timing. This episode offers a look at the unique challenges faced by construction managers in this specialized field, and the rewarding outcomes that comes with the role! Hosts of Deliberate Words David Stutzman and Steve Gantner saddle up with Ken Stonecipher covering blueprints to blackjack because casino work is about building more than just bets!

In this episode we welcome Jeff Sawyer! Researcher, business leader and educator who is the director of strategy for Simplar – a world-leading procurement and an organizational management consultancy, and is president of the board of directors at the Center 4 Procurement, home of the RFP Doctor! Jeff, who considers himself the black sheep of construction research, introduces us to a new perspective in viewing the procurement process. A perspective that is backed by scientific data based on the results produced from executing thousands of projects, for hundreds of clients, across different contract delivery methods, in a large variety of geographic locations. This is REAL PROJECT RESEARCH. The results are obvious – Better RFPs yield better projects. But what’s the formula to creating those amazing RFPs? Take a listen to the hosts of Deliberate Words: Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner as they learn from Jeff Sawyer – Procurement Mathematics.

Organization of information is critical when it comes to making design decisions, estimating costs, and constructing a building. Structuring project data in an efficient manner allows members of the project team to make rigorous analysis of options to compare cost, risk, performance and design attributes. This can be accomplished through the SPD, which stands for Systems and Performance Description. It is a way of documenting design in a highly efficient manner, offering tremendous value to the construction team. It combines an early project narrative with UNIFOMAT organization for ease of estimating.

Let’s throw back to November, 2023 to the COAA Fall Conference in Orlando, FL. Our guests are: Cy Rangel of Purdue University, Carli Cole of HGA Architects, Sarah Delphin and Kamila Andrzejak from MD Anderson.

In this episode host of Deliberate Words and president of Conspectus sits down with four colleagues who we have become friends with during our participation and attendance at COAA which stands for Construction Owners Association of America. This podcast is a peak into a discussion between Dave, Cy, Carli, Sarah and Kamila. It exemplifies why we, as specifiers, attend these conferences and get to know other members of the project team. Truly understanding the vantage points, challenges, and activities help us understand how we can create better documents and improve the process. We hope you enjoy this conference episode of Deliberate Words!

Conspectus continues to grow, doubling the size of the team in just one year. The Conspectians got together for the annual meeting in December, 2023 in the world-wide headquarters - Tuckahoe, NJ. Take a peek into our culture. That is the secret to our success.

A fascinating look at the career path of the AEC industry tech leader Marc Goldman. From crafting his own arch/eng degree to software development to digital mapping and location intelligence, and many adventures in between that brought him to BIM, the digital twin and GIS - Geographic Information System. In his current position with ESRI, he educates the AEC industry on how to leverage the benefits of GIS during planning, design and construction.

Something is build everywhere. GIS provides geospatial analytics that can aid in many aspects in every stage of development and construction, including codes, placement, context and so much more.

Join Dave, Steve and Marc to learn more about geographic information systems.

Specifications are not typically a celestial experience, but Brian Conroy helps us discover how the process of creating well written documents, when done correctly, can put one in a state of service that may have the effects of feeling spiritual.

In this episode we welcome Brian Conroy, fellow Philly CSI members and product rep of Master Wall, which is a manufacturer of stucco, coatings, exterior insulation and EIFS. Brian is our very first building product manufacturer on the show! Specifiers and technical representatives have a critical relationship that can substantially influence project documentation. But is goes beyond technical knowledge. It becomes a trusted advisor position, so if and when they don't have the solution, they assist in finding it. From this act, mutual respect is built and a successful relationship is built, ultimately benefiting the project and the owner. Join our hosts of Deliberate Words: Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner, as they find spirituality in specs with Brian Conroy.

Welcome to the Continuum…..during this episode, we welcome Doug Bevill, the very first General Manager of Conspectus Cloud.

Conspectus Cloud, the specification tool created by specifiers for specifiers, and designers, and contractors, and owners and building product manufacturers, is capturing attention in the industry at a tremendous rate. In response to this growth, Conspectus brought on Doug Bevill, who is incredibly experienced in the AECO industry, and belief system is in line with the firm: make the process better. His manta is A product should not reinvent the way someone works, it should enhance the way someone works. Check out his full bio on our website, a link in posted in the show's description. Now here are your hosts of Deliberate Words, Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner chatting with Doug Bevill, taking an in depth look as to where Conspectus Cloud is going, and how we are going to get there!

Pizza and prefab construction, an unusual pair that have quite a lot in common, according the Axel Webb, from TAS Energy, a prefabrication and manufacturing powerhouse.

Axel is a golf semi-pro and efficiency guru. His career has taken him from operation over 40 Little Caesar Pizza restaurants to his current position as pre-construction manager at TAS Energy, a pre fab manufacturer specializing in construction in the MEP sector. He talks about the parallels between these two types of manufacturing. Yes, manufacturing food with ingredients, and manufacturing a building with materials. The prefab process is fascinating and Axel takes us through considerations when deciding to procure this method of construction to how it is delivered to the site. Challenges, successes, and failures hinge on how efficient a CUP - Central Utility Plant is designed, manufactured, delivered and installed.

Conspectus team members have been long time members of the CSI (Construction Specification Institute) at different capacities, all across the country. We understanding the importance of this organization for, not just specifiers, but for the entire project team. Which is why we decided this spring, to invest in CSI at a new capacity, and attend regional conferences across the country as a sponsor. Conspectus Cloud was our main feature and it was well received. Because no one likes RFIs or value engineering, especially spec writers! Take a listen and find out how our 8 specifiers, who attended 4 region conferences, expanded their knowledge, developed and nurtured relationships, and evalgelized Conspectus Cloud!

Are you on a Lean Journey? Are you familiar with what a Lean Journey is? Conspectus has been attending COPs (community of practice) events across the country. We have been learning about Lean principles, and striving to understanding the tenants. We know it is a powerful practice, that drives project success, but we want to know how the Conspectus approach aligns with Lean. So we sat down with one of the most knowledgeable folks in the industry - John Zachara.

Lean has become a way of constructing, and even a way of life, for many teams across the country and even the world. It is a practice that is rooted in respecting people, reducing waste, increasing efficiency, and many other principles that directly align with how Conspectus approaches our projects. We are very curious how to make the connection between the two. John Zachara, vice president at Integrated Facility Solutions in Chicago, is an consultant, practitioner, educator, and active member of LCI, Lean Construction Institute. In this episode we take a journey with him into the world of Lean, and it felt like we just scratched the surface. We will definitely be continuing the conversation with John, but right now we invite you to listen in on him chatting with our hosts, David Stutzman and Steve Gantner, along with special guest, our executive VP in Chicago, Elias Saltz, who has worked with John on past projects. Welcome to our intro to a Lean Journey.

Courage is a powerful characteristic in a female architect, and is exercised in a number of ways, inspiring many along her journey.

In honor of Women In Construction month, we welcome Marissa Iamello, a New Jersey architect and the 2021 AIA-NJ Young Architect Award recipient. As she shares her story, we learn how she has shown a tremendous amount of courage throughout her entire career. She is continuously challenged to re-evaluate priorities as she navigates being an ardent female architect. She shows that there is more than just surviving what life gives you, it is celebrating and enjoying every moment. Now here are your hosts of Deliberate Words David Stutzman and Steve Gantner chatting with Marissa Iamello about her courageous journey as a female architect.

Live from the annual CURT Conference in San Antonio, TX! We chat with Taylor Boileau of Ryan Companies and Karen Hager, incoming president of NAWIC.
Dave Stutzman, Steve Gantner, and Tina Montone attended the Construction Users Round Table conference early this month. The event provided rich experiences of giving a presentation, tremendous education, incredible networking, and growth of friendships. A highlight was our conversation with Taylor and Karen, and listening to what is means to be a woman in construction. Trust me when I tell you, their angle and story is NOT what you typically hear. We hope you enjoy this onsite and uncut episode of Deliberate Words.

One may consider construction managers miracle workers, and in this episode we chat with an owner and a contractor to learn the depth of what it means in their lives and positions on the project team.

PMs, CMs, Superintendents - Whatever issues, problems, or situations that arise on the job site - it will land on their desk for resolution. Our guests in January add another level to the word miracle in medical situations they have overcome. Despite their close encounter with death, they continue to construct and work towards improving the industry. And they have A LOT of wisdom to bestow.

We welcome Cy Rangel, lead project manager at Purdue University, and Jim Rechenmacher, superintendent at Boldt Construction, long time industry friends, and comrade therapists talk about having knowledge, experience, ambition, initiative, and investment in the team and industry; sprinkled with some prayers to make miracles happen!

We have officially wrapped up 30 years of producing awesome specifications, and one whole year of podcast episodes. All of the Conspectus Specifiers hopped in the recording booth in December to reflect on how the firm as evolved over the past 3 decades, share their journey to specifications, and provide an inside of what it is like to work for the largest specification firm in the country. Our team of 14 split up into 3 groups to chat with one another. How did Conspectus develop the technical knowledge, talent, and positive team energy that is known far and wide in the industry? Perhaps you'll hear some secrets revealed. From our team to yours: Happy Holidays 2022!

Group 1: Joe Minarik, Jay Bethel, Emelyn Adoremos, Basiru Carew, Dave Stutzman, Tina Montone

Group 2: Steve Gantner, Marlon Hollis, Chris Ricke, Hugo Nava, Dave Stutzman, Tina Montone

Group 3: Elias Saltz, Alejandro Rodriguez, Melody Fontenot, Terumi Woods, Dave Stutzman, Tina Montone

Music by Dream Theatre

Have you been to a DBIA conference? Ever wonder what it is about and what you can experience as an attendee? In this episode we welcome back Brian Skripac, the director of Virtual Design and Construction for the DBIA, to provide a recap on the most recent conference that took place last month in November. The association added VDC as a new track, and it is quite interesting to get the behind-the-scenes knowledge to understand how they structure sessions for ultimate benefit to the attendees. Our St. Louis senior specifier and executive vice president, Steve Gantner also attend the conference, and together they cover the highlights and awesome nuggets they gathered from the event.

We welcome Brian Skripac the director of VDC for the DBIA. In non-acronym terms: he is the Virtual Design & Construction guru for the Design Build Institute of America. Technology is everywhere in the industry, but how and why it's applied contributes to success. Brian explains that if we can look at technology in a thoughtful and innovative way, across the entire project life cycle, we can achieve design excellence, increase productivity and quality, and reduce life-cycle costs for owners. People must thoughtfully integrated it into the entire approach, to truly improve the process. These are very exciting times for technology in the construction industry, so listen in as David Stutzman and Steve Gantner, your hosts of Deliberate Words chat with Brian Skripac on how the importance of the order of People, Process, Technology = VDC Success.

Logic refocused technology; and it builds confidence in the predictability of success. In this episode of Deliberate Words, we welcome Daniel Canning - Vice President of Project Assurance and Delivery at Teknobuilt, and he is very much in agreeance and support of how relationships transform the industry. Dan is captivating, entertaining and brilliant in his discussions, that actually become a story about his experiences over the course of his career, and how they have influenced his current position in improving the industry. He distills it down to the correct placement of technology, people and process, which he proves has impact on success probability. He explains how the correct framework in a project recognizes constraints, removes the constraints, and has a LOGIC that makes sense to everyone and allows everyone to do their part, having technology as a strong and supportive role.

Eyes on the Prize - sometimes easier said than done. We discover that is what is behind the success at Studio Libeskind when we chat with Neil Cook*.

What's in a relationship, and how does it contribute to the success of the end goal as well as the journey that takes you there? Our Topeka, KS senior specifier Chris Ricke, had the pleasure of working on a Studio Libeskind project with architect Neil Cook. Chris noticed something unique in the how they work with the entire project team during each phase. Here is a hint: consult the contractor BEFORE drawings are complete! Let them influence design decisions. Neil takes a deep dive into their practices that encourages "Eyes on the prize" for ultimate success.*

In this episode we are very excited to welcome Charlie Dunn from DPR. As per his usual, Charlie provides many wonderful nuggets to improving the future of the construction industry through the art of storytelling, and distills the solutions down to two ideas: empathy and scientific thinking. Charlie has a unique and captivating way of looking at projects, identifying the challenges, and guiding members of the project team to efficiently and successfully provide solutions. He is able to do this at a high level applying solutions to areas of the industry as a whole, down to a project specific challenge. He also talks about his debut on TED Talk: https://youtu.be/W8Jg8BG8szcand the journey that lead him there. The added twist to this podcast is the situation he found himself in Switzerland, which is providing additional reflection opportunities, development, and personal healing. Intrigued? Tune in and listen to your hosts of Deliberate Words - Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner chatting with Charlie Dunn learning about Empathy and Construction.

In this episode we chat with John Sier, an attorney and partner with a Detroit law firm - Kitch Drutchas Wagner Valitutti & Sherbrook. John works with construction owners and in this conversation, he identifies the challenges the industry is facing, what solutions are being applied, such as prefab and modular, -and what are the legal implications and contracting considerations what must the owner consider, in order to create success moving forward? Listen in on Deliberate Words while Dave Stutzman and Steve Gantner chat with John Sier as they visit lessons learned and how they are creating new construction trends, and why it is extremely important to look at them through the critical lens of an attorney.

Our guests this month are Jim Beck from Allegheny Health Network, John Reddick from Stantec (Pittsburgh), and Mark Petzold from Highmark, and they teach us how they have Perfected the RFP. Here is a question for our listeners: How confident are you with your RFPs (Requests for Proposal)? Whether you are writing them or answering them, the words in them matter immensely! In this episode we chat with an owner, an architect, and a procurement specialist who have perfected the RFP process. They have worked together to create content that benefits all parties reducing confusion, frustration, and risk; while gaining clarity, confidence, and time.

We are thrilled to welcome the hosts of the incredibly popular podcast The Construction Brothers - Tyler and Eddie Campbell! Join us as they talk about tea, tech, people, and process and how it all fits into the feedback loop. Their podcast has led them to learning so much about the AECO industry, and they use this platform to share it with the world. Their shows are incredibly fun, jam packed with great content and awesome guests. In addition to their show, Eddie is a 6th generation constructor, and current owner of ABSI - a company that specializes in steel design and BIM. Tyler is an amazing story builder who works with companies to share their products and services. He investigates technologies and shares his findings with the world in a unique perspective.
Take a listen to our crazy conversation and how we go from the proper way to drink tea to where the industry can and must improve.
And definitely check out the Construction Brothers podcast!

Our guest, Lauren Harris, Associate AIA, is the BIM manager at L2P. She received the Associate of the Year Award in 2019, at the AIA-NJ Gala, which is where we met her and learned about her fascinating story of entering into architecture. Her path to becoming an architect and her impact on the industry, truly embodies the feminine qualities of a woman.

Learn more about:
- Her journey going back to school during motherhood (she has 4 children) and discussion on women in architecture programs.
- Her passion for nurturing the next generation through amazing educational involvement. STEAM Tank Competition

Her drive for bettering architecture and construction through her many volunteer positions. Regional Associates Director for AIA-NJ, Chair of East Coast Green Conference, AIA Grass Roots Conference

In this episode "Swimming Against the Current", Stewart Carroll, President of Beck Technology chats with us about how they use strong cultural practices, technology, and the regimented mindset of a swimmer athlete to improve the Main Stream in the construction industry. This conversation is very timely with focus on talent acquision and retainage in the industry, as well as how technology is playing a critical role in transparency and collaboration on projects.

How often do you feel like you are on a bucking bull, and loosing control of the reigns, when your project enters VE? We kick off our second season chatting with Marcene Taylor, president of MTI, professional and continuous estimator. We learn the different between cost estimating and cost management, and how crucial the role of an estimator is on the project team. She will explain how NOT to get bucked out of budget and stay within 5%.

Welcome to the show Brian Perlberg, Esq., CM-Lean! Brian is a nationally recognized law attorney who serves as Executive Director and Senior Council for ConsensusDocs, a unique and durable coalition that attracts over 40 leading construction associations to create and sell best practice standard construction documents.

In addition to learning about Brian's favorite part of fall - Pomegranates and the secret to de-seeding them, he provides us with a wide knowledge of what ConsensusDocs is all about - a MUST listen to for anyone using contracts on their project. He covers:
- The History of ConsensusDocs
- Using AI in contracts
- The newest addition of Pre-Fab docs
- Dive into Design Assist docs
- Transactional Waste
- Market for risk
- Price escalation considerations

Eliminate waste by 40%!
Increase profitability by 200 - 300%!
Improve delivery by 50%

It is the construction unicorn that actually exists. It is not fiction, it is the power of community and neighborly attitude. Listen in on the conversation between Pete Dumont (Prairie Dog), Dave Stutzman, and Steve Gantner on OS2 (operating system2) and redefining the capital projects business model.
Learn more: https://www.os2.construction-institute.org/
Prairie Dog Venture Partners: https://prairiedogvp.com/

What are Deliberate Words and what is this podcast all about? An original Podcast by Conspectus, Inc., specifiers who provide meaning to drawings through words. The power, the beauty, the meaning of deliberate words can significantly impact the success of a construction project. Join us once a month for the Deliberate Words Podcast, as we chat with members of the project team who use our words to understand the project better, and how these words effect their role in creating a successful project outcome.

David Stutzman and Steve Gantner kick off the podcast with two words that can be frightening or exhilarating, when put together - Risky Business! David and Steve talk about the AGC (Associated General Contractors) Risk Management Conference and how risk in construction impact more than you think!