Building Design and Construction Handbook - Merritt - Ventech!

2.22 SECTION TWO
stitute format (Art. 2.17.1). Computers are used to facilitate and speed production
of specifications and other technical documents.
Although computer systems can be complex, requiring an experienced person
for setup and maintenance, they are cost-effective, saving time and effort. For example,
one program used for preparing specifications has a point-and-click graphics
user interface with directories and files represented by icons and manipulated by a
mouse. Multiple files are viewed and edited on the screen simultaneously, and each
file is seen as a full-page display exactly as it will be printed. The graphics and
document layout capabilities of the program are suitable for producing technical
manuals and for publishing periodicals. Documents displayed on the computer permit
the architect to eliminate the editing of drafts on paper or markups. Instead,
editing is performed directly on the computer screen, thus reducing the amount of
paper filing and printing that would otherwise be required.
2.18 UPFRONT DOCUMENTS
The contract documents prepared by the architect, engineer, or client’s legal counsel
include the contract between the client and contractor; the bidding requirements,
which contain the invitation to bid, instruction to bidders, general information, bid
forms, and bid bond; the contract forms, which may include the agreement (contract)
format between the client and contractor, performance bond, and payment
bond and certificates; the contract conditions identified as the general and supplementary
conditions; the list of technical specifications; drawings; addenda; and contract
modifications. The bidding requirements, contract forms, and contract conditions
are sometimes referred to as the upfront documents.
Bidding Requirements. These explain the procedures bidders are to follow in
preparing and submitting their bid. They assist all bidders in following established
guidelines so that bids can be submitted for comparative purposes and not be disqualified
because of technicalities. The bidding requirements address all prospective
bidders, whereas the final contract documents address only the successful bidder,
who, after signing the client-contractor agreement, becomes the contractor.
Contract Forms. The agreement (contract) is the written document, signed by the
client and contractor, which is the legal instrument binding the two parties. This
contract defines the relationships and obligations that exist between the client and
contractor. It incorporates other contract documents by reference.
The contract may require a construction performance bond for financial protection
of the client in the event the contractor is unable to complete the work in
accordance with the contract. Not all clients require performance bonds, but the
architect should review its necessity with the client and prepare the bidding documents
in accordance with the client’s decision.
The contract usually requires a contractor payment bond from the contractor to
ensure that a surety will pay the labor force and material suppliers should the
contractor fail to pay them. The use of this bond precludes the need for the labor
force or suppliers to seek payment directly from the client, through liens or otherwise,
because of nonpayment by the contractor.
Certificates include those project forms that may be required for insurance, certificate
of compliance, guarantees or warranties, or compliance with applicable