Specifier Education @ www.bsdsoftlink.com

BSD’s recently remodeled web site offers quite a few opportunities for learning, both about SpecLink and about writing specs. For new users, the entire site is useful—the same material used to attract subscribers would be useful to acquaint new users with the features of the software and database. But we also have a section of the site just For Customers. When you follow the link For Customers, you can choose one of three libraries—the Specifiers' Library, the AE Estimators' Library, or the CM Estimators' Library. The Specifiers' Library is designed to help users of all levels of expertise.

For new users, there is a Step-by-Step section to get you up and running as quickly as possible.

• Step 1 is Installing and Learning SpecLink
• Step 2 is a New User Webinar—every Tuesday and Thursday
• Step 3 is getting acquainted with the Contents (the specs)
• Step 4 is about actually producing a project specification!

For everyone, there are sections on specifying issues, ways to optimize your production procedures, and places to get help. Some highlights are:

• Specifying LEED Requirements.
• All about CSI/CSC's MasterFormat™, SectionFormat™, and PageFormat™.
• Making an office master, with a PowerPoint slide show.
• Basics of spec writing, such as knowing who your audience is, different methods of specifying, and best practices.
• A link to Ask BSD Specification Writers.
• About reference standards, model codes, laws and regulations relating to construction, and how to get them.

This is also the Download Center, where you can download the latest edition of SpecLink plus:

• Summary of Changes for the last few updates.
• Details on significant changes to specific sections.
• The latest quarterly newsletter.
• The building product manufacturer Referral Form (see Q&A).