OPEN SPECIFICATION

(Nonrestrictive Specification)
 OPEN SPECIFICATION

• When an architect does not name a specific supplier or product and

allows for substitutions to be made by the contractor. It does not limit
competition, but rather is dictated by a set of standards that more than
one manufacturer can meet, allowing for many alternatives to be
submitted for approval. Performance specifications are often
considered to be open.
CLOSED SPECIFICATION

(Restrictive Specification)
 CLOSED SPECIFICATION

• Lists specific products, systems and manufacturers, with no

alternatives or mechanisms to apply a substitution. Closed
specifications are most often seen when matching a specification to an
existing building, or when an exact duplication is important. By
default, closed specifications are proprietary. However, they can be
made “open” by not referring to a singular brand or providing
requirements applicable only to a specific product. This is commonly
done by adding “or equal” after the listed brand.