Format types for specifications: which classification is by system and newer?

Format types for specifications: which classification is by system and newer?

• A. MasterFormat: by material
• B. Uniformat: by system
• C. MasterFormat: by system
• D. Uniformat: by material

Answer: (B)

Formats for specifications differ in how they group project elements. Uniformat organizes by system or functional assembly—think structural, enclosure, mechanical, electrical, and interior elements. This approach is newer and was designed to support cross-project cost estimation and life-cycle planning by linking elements to building systems rather than to specific materials. MasterFormat, on the other hand, is organized by material or by construction work results, and it’s the older way of structuring specifications. So the classification that is by system and newer is Uniformat. The other options describe formats organized by material or attribute that don’t match this system-based, newer approach.

Formats for specifications differ in how they group project elements. Uniformat organizes by system or functional assembly—think structural, enclosure, mechanical, electrical, and interior elements. This approach is newer and was designed to support cross-project cost estimation and life-cycle planning by linking elements to building systems rather than to specific materials. MasterFormat, on the other hand, is organized by material or by construction work results, and it’s the older way of structuring specifications. So the classification that is by system and newer is Uniformat. The other options describe formats organized by material or attribute that don’t match this system-based, newer approach.