Top Five Takeaways from the NBS 'Unlocking the Secrets of Specification' event

1. Understand the Specification Process to Win More WorkOne of the most significant barriers for manufacturers is understanding how specifications are created and how to influence them. Alex Tait, Director of Practice and Individual Knowledge at RIBA, gave a presentation on the RIBA Plan of Work and provided delegates with a comprehensive walkthrough of the entire specification process, highlighting key stages where manufacturers can engage and add value. In his presentation, he emphasised that specifiers do not select products randomly; they require clear and structured information that aligns with their project requirements. By providing well-structured product data in appropriate formats, manufacturers can make it easier for specifiers to incorporate their products into designs.2. Risk Management is a Key Concern for SpecifiersRisk management has become a top priority for specifiers, especially in light of the Building Safety Act. The industry is facing increased scrutiny to ensure that specified products meet stringent safety, compliance, and performance standards and providing inaccurate or unverified data can lead to serious legal and financial consequences, project delays, and even safety risks.To mitigate these risks, specifiers tend to choose products from manufacturers who offer transparency, traceability, and certified quality. This requires manufacturers to provide comprehensive, easily accessible, and consistently updated technical information. Furthermore, independent testing, third-party accreditations, and clear documentation are essential for building trust with specifiers.As construction projects become more complex, there is a growing need for strong, digital risk management tools. Digital platforms that enable real-time updates and facilitate collaboration between manufacturers and specifiers can help ensure compliance and reduce the risk of using outdated or incorrect specifications. By prioritising risk management, manufacturers can enhance their credibility and improve their chances of being selected for specificationsPanel of four speakers3. Sustainability is No Longer OptionalSustainability has become central to modern specification decisions, and the demand for environmentally responsible products is growing rapidly. During the event, speakers emphasised the importance of placing sustainability data at the forefront, with clear and accessible credentials that demonstrate a product’s environmental impact.Andrew De Silva, Director and Architect at David Miller Architects, reinforced the necessity for transparent, third-party verified Environmental Product Declarations, as specifiers increasingly prioritise environmental performance in their decision-making. To maximise opportunities for specification, manufacturers must integrate sustainability considerations into both their product development and marketing strategies.By making sustainability information readily available—for instance, by including green labels or providing digital access to EPDs—manufacturers can better align with the evolving priorities of specifiers and regulatory frameworks.4. Digital Innovation is Reshaping How Specifiers WorkDigital tools, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) and structured digital product data, have transformed the way specifications are written. Specifiers increasingly rely on digital platforms to search for, compare, and select products.A speaker from SIKA emphasised the role of digital transformation in supporting architects and specifiers. They highlighted how platforms such as NBS Source and NBS Chorus provide structured, well-organised product data that specifiers can easily integrate into their workflows. These platforms not only help streamline product selection but also enhance collaboration between manufacturers and specifiers, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information is used in projects.Speakers also discussed how metadata and structured data formats play a crucial role in making product information searchable and usable within digital environments. Manufacturers who adopt digital-first strategies, leveraging tools like BIM and specification platforms, stand a far greater chance of being specified over competitors who rely on outdated, manual processes.5. Collaboration is Key to Specification SuccessSuccessful specification is not just about products but about building strong relationships with specifiers. This relationship building ensures that specifiers have access to the right technical expertise and product knowledge at the right time.Manufacturers who engage early with specifiers, understand their needs, and provide valuable support throughout the project lifecycle are more likely to secure specifications and turn specifiers into long-term advocates.David Grainger, Specification Manager at Sika expanded on that point, and said "Being able to have that early engagement, and collaboration means you are the first person they think of to get in touch with and look to and help them when the next project comes along”.Final ThoughtsWinning specifications requires a strategic approach—understanding specifiers’ needs, providing clear, structured data, managing risk, prioritising sustainability, and embracing digital tools. By applying these insights, manufacturers can take meaningful steps toward increasing their influence in the specification process and driving business growth.

Top Five Takeaways from the NBS 'Unlocking the Secrets of Specification' event

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