CSI pursues advances in construction technology

Robert C. Boehner is an independent architect and a member of the Southwest Missouri Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute.

The Construction Specifications Institute was founded in 1948 in response to the need to develop a uniform system of construction specification language and format during the construction boom following World War II.

Since that time, CSI has further defined its mission to advance construction technology through communication, education, research and service.

The 16-division format developed by CSI has become the industry standard for construction specifications. As building complexity and new technologies have developed over the years, CSI has responded by expanding the section numbering systems to provide a uniform system of data base for products and systems and organization of construction specification writing.

CSI is currently expanding the original 16-division format to recognize the individuality and specialties of trades, products and systems now being incorporated into building projects as a result of new technologies and systems.

Although this may seem somewhat mundane, the end result can be a more closely and accurately bid project that can provide for a more organized process of the many trades involved in a project during the construction process.

In addition to the 16-division format for specifications, CSI developed the 10-part "spec data" format for manufacturers. This format is a standardization of product information to provide the specification writer with a clear, concise comparative outline of a material or product for use in the decision-making process of material/product selection.

The numbering system developed by CSI for spec data has become a standardized database system for organization of cataloguing and a construction "Dewey Decimal System." CSI, in concert with the American Institute of Architects, has also developed master specification formats, originally created and edited through the local chapter network format.

"The Construction Specifier," available through membership, is a monthly publication of CSI. This magazine contains in-depth information on building components, systems and materials, with emphasis on providing an objective analysis of failures and successes in material detailing and use in construction projects.

CSI has developed certification programs recognizing those who complete, through examination processes, a working knowledge of either Construction Document Technology, Specification Writing, Product Representation or Contract Administration procedures.

The Southwest Missouri Chapter of CSI received its charter from the National Institute in 1995. The organization provides an opportunity for all in the local construction industry to share knowledge, expertise and concerns, as well as the opportunity to learn about the "other side" and gain exposure to other trades and concerns. The chapter was chartered with 32 members and currently has approximately 75 members.

Membership comprises individuals representing all disciplines of the construction industry. Architects, engineers, general contractors and subcontractors, material suppliers, manufacturers and product representatives make up the membership in CSI on common and equal ground with common goals.

Each March the local chapter holds the only commercial building product show in the Southwest Missouri area.

March of 2004 will be the eighth trade show the chapter has held. Each year this show has filled the Knights of Columbus Hall with exhibitors of commercial building materials and products. The day also includes a three-hour seminar of interest to the local construction industry prior to the opening of the trade show.

The Southwest Missouri Chapter meets on the third Thursday evening of each month, generally with a social period followed by dinner and program. The chapter is a certified provider of continuing education credits for American Institute of Architects' members and provides certification of attendance for design professionals requiring continuing education or learning credits for professional registration.

The chapter welcomes and continues to actively pursue new members. Those interested in joining CSI and the local chapter may contact Bill Nesbitt of Nesbitt Construction Company, currently serving as president, or Jerry Hackleman with Dewitt & Associates, vice president. Other officers are Craig Schneider, secretary, and Buddy Webb, treasurer. Miles Boyer with the Builders Exchange serves as membership chairman.