Masonry Magazine August 2000 Page. 28
genesis as no more than conceptual conversation between the owner and the architect; with preliminary variables running wild (when, where, who, what, and how much?) -and you begin to see the enormity of such an undertaking.
The detail is staggering - and so is the responsibility. The architect must not only create -but must also relay to the average trade persona set of documents that explains the structure, use, aesthetics, and so much more, in a way that is understandable, economic, and expedient. Often, he accomplishes this with outside assistance (such as mechanical, electrical, or structural engineers), but may -particularly with larger firms-perform all of the work in house. Regardless, with such a tremendous amount of information to be relayed to paper, it's no wonder that often times it can appear to the average contractor that the architect is cold, clinical, analytical, and (often) aloof in their everyday dealings (ever heard of "an engineer's mentality").
COMMUNICATION
But therein may lie our answer to
STERLING
The "TOUGH GUY"
question number two. Running the risk of sounding stereotypical, it's been my experience that most contractors prefer to perform the majority of their daily correspondence and interaction verbally-be it briefing the crews, negotiating the next job, or reprimanding a slow worker. At the same time, architects tend to shy away from verbal commitment or explanation, fearing both misunderstanding and liability. The architect simply finds that written instruction is solidly more concise, understandable, and legally binding... and, for the most part, that's true. That is of course, assuming that the written communication doesn't spin horrifyingly out of control.
Like the following. This is an actual transcript from a specification manual for a job I'm bidding right now and the cause of this article. Now, it's important to note that I didn't go looking for this and that unfortunately - I've seen many more like it over the years.
It reads:
"Imperative language is used generally in specifications. Except as otherwise specified, requirements expressed imperatively are to be performed by Contractor. For clarity of reading at certain locations, contrasting subjective language is used to describe the responsibilities which must be fulfilled indirectly by Contractor or, when so noted, by others."
Well, that certainly clears that up! I'll call the architect to get a translation, but don't wait around for me... because it'll be three days before I know anything!
Steve S. Saucerman is a full-time commercial construction estimator/project manager, freelance author and lecturer for the construction industry and also teaches building construction technology at Rock Valley College in Rockford, IL
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