The role of the specification writer has been changing in response to industry trends. One clear trend is the increasing recognition of spec writing as a distinct and valuable career path, rather than an accidental specialization for aging architects. In the past, it was common for architects to transition into spec writing in mid-to-late career – the stereotypical specifier was a seasoned architect who had been “pigeonholed” into technical duties over time.
That traditional path (graduate architecture school, spend years in project delivery, then specialize in specs by your 40s) is becoming less common as firms seek to develop spec expertise earlier. Some forward-thinking firms now deliberately train young architects as specifiers as part of their quality control strategy (csiresources.org).
There are mentorship programs and even internship roles (specification interns) emerging to feed the pipeline of new spec writers. One discussion at the 2022 CSI conference highlighted that firms should identify technically inclined junior staff and give them a path into spec writing – with commensurate recognition and pay – to avoid a knowledge gap as older specifiers retire.
Despite these efforts, the industry is grappling with a shortage of experienced spec writers. Many veteran specifiers have retired or are nearing retirement, and relatively few young professionals have been filling their shoes (specsandcodes.com). This has led to what some call a “talent gap” in specifications. As evidence, independent spec consultants report skyrocketing demand for their services: “There is no shortage of work out there. I get calls from all over the country from desperate small- to mid-sized firms in need of an independent spec writer,” says one U.S. spec writer with 20 years experience.
In other words, many firms that lack an in-house spec expert are scrambling to find external help. This high demand is pushing salaries up and making the spec writing niche a potentially lucrative avenue for mid-career professionals who develop the needed expertise. As another industry expert noted, a technically skilled architect who invests in CSI certifications can significantly increase their value and earning potential “as a specification specialist” compared to a design architect.
Another aspect of the role’s evolution is technology. Specification writing has moved from the era of word processing and manual editing into the era of database-driven, collaborative software. Modern spec tools (like Deltek Specpoint/MasterSpec, BSD SpecLink, and NBS Chorus) allow specs to be linked with BIM (Building Information Modeling) and updated in real-time. This shift means today’s spec writers need to be comfortable with software and integration. Young specifiers are advised to “embrace technology”, leveraging these new platforms to work more efficiently.
The integration of specs with BIM is breaking down some of the isolation between the spec writer and the design team – specifications are increasingly being developed in parallel with drawings, not just after drawings are done(designmatters.org.au).
This collaborative approach requires spec writers to be proactive team members, often participating from early design stages to guide material choices and ensure the model and specs stay coordinated.
The scope of what spec writers cover has also broadened. Sustainability and performance standards now figure prominently in specs, so spec writers must be knowledgeable about things like energy codes, green products, and rating systems. It’s no coincidence many specifiers obtain LEED AP or newer credentials like WELL AP; firms expect them to integrate sustainability requirements (recycled content, VOC limits, etc.) seamlessly into project manuals (stonegrouparchitects.com).
Additionally, spec sections for new technologies (e.g. smart building systems) and evolving building codes mean spec writers are in continuous learning mode. A comment from a veteran specifier community encapsulates this: successful spec writers have “an insatiable desire to learn more and get deep into a given topic… [they are] high-functioning jacks-of-all-trades”. In essence, the job now demands more agility and lifelong learning, as materials and regulations change rapidly.
Industry attitudes toward spec writing are slowly shifting as well. Historically, some design firms viewed specification writing as a tedious necessity – even a “necessary evil” overhead cost (specsandcodes.com). This attitude contributed to fewer young architects being interested in the role. However, there is a growing awareness that good specifications are critical to project success and risk management.
Thought leaders argue that firms must make the specifier role attractive – offering clear career progression (even up to associate/partner level for tech specialists) and competitive compensation – so that talented professionals will pursue it (specguy.com).
We are seeing more discussions in professional forums and publications advocating for recognizing spec writers as equal partners in the design process, not just back-room technicians.
Finally, the rise of independent spec consulting practices (e.g. members of SCIP – Specification Consultants in Independent Practice) is an evolving dynamic. Many experienced spec writers choose to work as independent consultants serving multiple firms. This trend indicates a more flexible labor market for spec writing expertise, where firms that cannot afford a full-time specifier can still access seasoned spec writers on a contract basis.
For the spec writers themselves, this consultancy route can be rewarding, given the aforementioned demand. It also means that a spec writer’s career might not be tied to one firm; networking and reputation in the broader industry become important. Some regions, like Australia, have embraced this model heavily (johnraynerarchitecture.com.au), and it’s growing elsewhere too.
In conclusion, the professional expectations for specification writers around the world show a common foundation – strong architectural knowledge – augmented by region-specific credentials and tools. An architecture degree remains the most common ticket into the field, but certifications like CDT and CCS have emerged as key differentiators in North America, while other regions emphasize mastery of their own spec systems (NBS, NATSPEC, etc.). Across the board, employers seek spec writers who are detail-oriented, technically savvy, and fluent in the language of construction.
As the construction industry continues to innovate and as veteran specifiers retire, the role of the spec writer is both more important than ever and undergoing significant change. The next generation of spec writers may enter the field earlier in their careers, armed with advanced tools and broader knowledge (codes, sustainability, BIM) than their predecessors. What remains constant is that effective specification writing is crucial to delivering high-quality, compliant buildings, and firms worldwide are increasingly recognizing the value of professionals dedicated to this specialty.
Sources: Recent job postings, industry forums, and expert commentary have informed these insights. Notably, career data from the American Institute of Architecture Students(johnraynerarchitecture.com.au) and World Education Services (wes.org) illustrate baseline requirements, while discussions on CSI Connect (csiresources.org) provide real-world perspectives from practitioners. Regional specifics were drawn from sources like Adamson Associates Canada adamson-associates.com).
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