What is a Submittal?
A Submittal is an integral part of the construction documentation process where contractors submit documents and samples to the project stakeholders for review and approval. This process ensures that all materials and equipment used in the project meet the specified requirements and design intent. Submittals are critical for maintaining quality control and consistency throughout the construction phase.
About Submittals Construction
Submittals serve as a verification step in the construction process. They allow the project owner, architect, and other stakeholders to review the proposed materials, equipment, and methods before they are incorporated into the project. This step helps to prevent costly changes and delays by catching any discrepancies or issues early in the process.
Key Components of Construction Submittals
- Shop Drawings: Detailed drawings that illustrate how specific portions of the work will be fabricated and installed.
- Product Data: Manufacturer’s information on materials, products, or equipment, including performance data, dimensions, and installation instructions.
- Samples: Physical examples of materials or products proposed for use in the project to provide a basis for comparison and approval.
- Mock-Ups: Full-scale models or small sections of a part of the project to demonstrate how specific elements will look and function.
- Certifications: Documents that certify that the materials and products comply with specified standards and requirements.
Submittal Process
- Preparation: The contractor prepares submittals based on project specifications and requirements.
- Submission: The contractor submits the documents and samples to the architect or project owner for review.
- Review: The architect or project owner reviews the submittals to ensure they comply with the contract documents.
- Approval or Rejection: The submittals are either approved, approved with comments, or rejected. If rejected, the contractor must revise and resubmit.
- Implementation: Once approved, the contractor can proceed with incorporating the materials or methods into the project.
Best Practices for Managing Submittals
- Organized Submission: Maintain a well-organized system for tracking submittals, including submission dates, review dates, and approval status.
- Detailed Review: Conduct thorough reviews of all submittals to ensure they comply with project specifications and design intent.
- Clear Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication between the contractor, architect, and project owner to address any issues or discrepancies promptly.
- Timely Approval: Ensure timely review and approval of submittals to prevent delays in the construction schedule.
- Documentation: Keep detailed records of all submittals, including revisions and approvals, to ensure accountability and transparency.
Submittals vs. RFIs
- Submittals: Documents and samples provided by the contractor for approval before incorporating materials or methods into the project. Submittals ensure compliance with specifications and design intent.
- RFIs (Requests for Information): Formal requests from the contractor to the project owner or architect seeking clarification on project details, specifications, or drawings. RFIs help resolve ambiguities and ensure accurate execution of the work.
Construction Submittal Software
Construction Submittal Software is a digital tool designed to streamline the submittal process in construction projects. Popular construction submittal software include:
- Procore: Offers a comprehensive submittal management module that integrates with other project management tools.
- Aconex: Provides robust submittal management features with strong emphasis on document control and collaboration.
- PlanGrid: Simplifies the submittal process with user-friendly interfaces and real-time tracking capabilities.
- Autodesk BIM 360: Integrates submittal management with BIM workflows, enhancing coordination and efficiency.
- Bluebeam: Facilitates the creation, review, and approval of submittals with powerful markup and collaboration tools.
Construction Reporting Dashboard Example
By leveraging Mastt, Project Owners and Project Managers can enhance decision making, leading to more efficient project execution, increased quality and more successful outcomes.
Mastt's automated Program dashboards will present real-time information allowing for data-driven decisions to be made.
