PEOPLE
A member of the design team hired by the owner or firm: design the lighting, specify the products, and ensure project requirements have been met.
The Specifier (architect, engineer, lighting designer, landscape architect, or interior designer)
This quote includes all of the lighting, dimming, controls, etc. and is given one lot price.
The Lighting Package
This part of the bid documents is made up of two parts. The written specification manual, and the lighting plans.
The Lighting Specifications
Out of the six different types of specifications, this one gives bidders a green light, advising them that the specifier and owner will accept substitutions.
One Name Specification with OR EQUAL
In this scenario, the substituted product may not be equal in quality, mechanics, performance and/or aesthetics. This can range from one type to multiple types on the fixture schedule.
Substitutions Are Accepted After the Bid
These people are responsible for selling, and understanding all details about a manufacturer's lighting products. Not hired by the design team, but paid commission when they sell products.
The Lighting Manufacturers' Representative or lighting agent
When someone attempts to offer a product which is different or not equal to what was specified.
Substitution
This bid documents includes fixture schedule, mounting details, plan locations, and symbols. What contractors use to solidify their bid number.
Lighting plans, electrical sheets, or reflected ceiling plans
Out of the six different types of specifications, this one leads to problems, giving bidders the impression that anything proposed by the secondary listed manufacturers will be approved and accepted.
Multiple Name Manufacturers with only one catalog number
The image of the specified product on the cut sheet, looks almost identical to the proposed substitution. Requesting this can provide a fair and legitimate comparison to evaluate the substitution.
A Fixture Sample
The business entity responsible for quoting, selling and ordering the lighting fixtures, inventorying product, handling credit and all shipping issues. AKA the money people
The Electrical Distributor
A process attempting to achieve legitimate cost savings or add value to a project, without sacrificing major or important parts of a construction project.
Value Engineering or VE
In this type of delivery an owner develops a conceptual plan for a project, then solicits bids from joint ventures of contractors and design team for a complete project. Project cost is established early by owner.
Design-Build
Out of the six different types of specifications, this one requires reliable up front budgeting with trustworthy suppliers.
No Substitution
This scenario provides best protection for the client, and ensures they get full value of the money spent. It is assumed that the specifier is communicating with the client about the design process, products selected, and budget.
Providing the Specified Package
Usually hired by the General Contractor, this person is responsible for project management for the electrical systems, product handling in the field and lighting fixture installation.
The Sub-Contractor (electrical)
This is the status of a substitution/similar bill of material that has not been seen prior to bid. It can create a feeding frenzy, and compromise the integrity of the specification.
Subject t Approval
In this type of delivery a construction manager acts as a consultant to the owner. They assume all risk for construction performance as the equivalent of a general contractor.
Construction Manager At Risk
Out of the six different types of specifications, this one spells out every detail of a fixtures physical, aesthetic, and performance criteria. It is typically used in government, military, and public work.
Performance Specification
When you find out the lighting package sold for less money than you paid for it, the specifier should insist the contractor provided this.
A Credit to the Owner