This week’s SPEC SHORTS spotlights a common industry misunderstanding regarding substitution requests. In this issue, we join Professor V and a Technical Representative who just learned the hard way that an email isn’t enough to get your product considered a substitute against quality Specifications.
When a substitution request is submitted without proper documentation or context, it’s likely to be rejected. This action also misses a valuable opportunity to connect, educate, and elevate your product positioning within Office Masters.
“Substitution Requests aren’t shortcuts—they’re side doors with specific locks. Those who possess the keys specified in Section 01 25 00 are much closer to getting inside before the time runs out.”
Want to get your product reviewed seriously? Show up with a complete substitution package, a reason for the request, and an understanding of what the reviewer needs to compare. The goal isn’t just to be included—it’s to become the Client’s Basis-of-Design.
