Technical initiatives of Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)

The Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) plays a role in facilitating communications between design/construction professionals. This is important as the industry becomes multi-disciplinary, interdependent and more technology-driven. Construction professional can benefit from CSI standards and formats, as well as, other technical initiatives that help everyone communicate in the same language such as: * GreenFormat: A new format allowing manufacturers to report the sustainability measuring properties of their products, and provide designer constructors, and building operators with information to help meet green requirements. * SectionFormat/PateFormat Updates: The final draft of SectionFormat and PageFormat, cornerstones of specification standards, are being updated to reflect current industry trends. A new accompanying XML schma permits digital formatting, display and transfer of specification date. * The Terminology Project: CSI is creating an international construction dictionary in conjunction with BuildingSmart International Framework for Dictionaries (IFD) and The National Center for Energy Management and Building Technologies (NCEMBT). * The National CAD Standard: In a joint effort with American Institute of Architects (AIA), CSI has developed an educational program to expand the adoption of the U.S. National CAD Standard and train industry professionals on how to use this integrated standard in their offices. * www.masterformat.com: This new website allows MasterFormat users get real-time updates and request additions and changes. It also provides manufacturers with a way to submit proposals to get a number assigned to their product. * UniFormat Update: Updating CSI/CSC UniFormat will harmonize the classification system with ASTM UniFormat II, GSA and other government agency versions. The revision will also expand UniFormat's coberate of the built environment. * CSI Career Center: Find and post jobs online. CSI's Career Center online allows the opportunity to browse the latest and hottest construction jobs or search résumés for the best qualified person for your company. Through this site, professionals can be contacted for face to face interviews. * CSI Learning Experience: CSI offers a variety of educational programs to meet professional development learning needs. Whether you're an architect, specifier, engineer, contractor, product representative or any other non-residential construction industry professional, CSI provides educational programs to suit your needs. This is done at the local chapter and national level. * CSI Educational Partners: CSI has partnered with premier design and construction organizations to provide the best industry education and expert speakers to address issues critical to the success of your projects and company. * Distance Learning: CSI Webinars are 90-minute interactive telephone/Internet seminars that provide learning at an affordable price. Most qualify for continuing education units. * CSI's Online Course Library: These courses are based on CSI's Written Education Documents Program and selected CSI Show & Convention technical educational sessions. * CSI Construction Educational Network (CEN) Provider Program: The program represents one provider program for the entire building industry. * CSI's AudioCasts: Free AudioCasts focusing on news, education, professional interviews and best practices. * Student Activities: CSI offers opportunities for networking and professional development. Sponsorship funding is available at the regional CSI level. Partners include: Construction Institute of American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Building Systems Design (BSD), EPDM Roofing Association (ERA), Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA), Geosynthetica, National Insulation Association (NIA), National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Specifications Consultants in Independent Practice (SCIP) and The Infrastructure Security Partnership (TISP).