Specifications define how products are selected and installed. A proprietary specification names a specific manufacturer and model (e.g., "Herman Miller Aeron Chair"), giving the designer maximum control over the exact product used, ensuring consistency with the design intent. A reference specification cites a standard (e.g., ANSI), offering less specificity. A descriptive specification details characteristics (e.g., "ergonomic chair with lumbar support") without naming brands, reducing control. A performance specification focuses on outcomes (e.g., "chair must support 300 lbs"), allowing contractors flexibility, which diminishes designer oversight. Proprietary specs are thus the most controlling.
Verified Answer from Official Source:C - proprietary
"Proprietary specifications provide the greatest control by specifying exact products, limiting substitutions unless approved by the designer." (NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Section 4: Specifications)
Explanation from Official Source:The NCIDQ notes that proprietary specs are used when the designer’s vision requires a specific product, ensuring quality and aesthetics align with the project goals.
Objectives:
[References:NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Chapter 4: Contract Documents; CSI MasterFormat., ]