Change is a
constant in architecture and construction. If anything, the pace of this change
is accelerating. We all struggle to keep up with the latest developments in an
effort to remain competitive. Our success is contingent upon how quickly we
adapt in an environment buffeted by forces largely beyond our control. Survival
of the fittest is a maxim always in play.
If there is
another constant in our industry it is the importance of clear, concise,
correct and complete construction
documentation and communications. Architecture and construction are
increasingly dependent upon the effective conveyance of design intent. They are
likewise dependent upon the clear definition of project responsibilities and
roles detailed by the forms of agreement most widely used in construction
projects. It’s important and necessary for everyone—owners, architects,
engineers, specifiers, general contractors, subcontractors, construction
materials suppliers, and others—to understand project delivery options,
standard forms of agreement, means for organizing drawings and specifications,
etc.
Change and
the Four C’s of construction documentation are not incompatible. A key to
managing the former and mastering the latter is knowledge, specifically fluency
with the lingua franca of our
industry. Knowledgeable employers highly value those who understand the
language of construction, its underlying principles and terminology, and the
critical relationships between all the participants in any design and
construction undertaking. Employees who thoroughly understand this language not
only survive but are more likely to thrive. They are the winners in today’s
challenging and constantly changing environment.
So, how can
you demonstrate your construction knowledge and competence? How can you stand
out in the crowd? One of the best ways is to achieve Construction Documents Technologist (CDT) status.
The
Construction Specifications Institute developed the CDT program decades ago to
provide training in construction documentation for architects, contractors,
contract administrators, specifiers, and manufacturers’ representatives. Since
then, it has become the cornerstone for all of CSI’s certification programs,
which presently include Certified Construction Specifier (CCS), Certified Construction Contract Administrator (CCCA),
and Certified Construction Product Representative (CCPR).
Passing the CDT examination means you have
become fluent with construction project processes and communication. It means
you’ve demonstrated professional commitment, credibility, and reliability to
your employer, colleagues, and clients. Obtaining CDT status benefits you, your
company, and your customers. Getting your CDT also means acquiring the
privilege to add “CDT” after your name on your business card and resume.
In some respects, I regard the value of the CDT as analogous
to that of a liberal arts degree, in that both provide a foundation for more
advanced learning. I became a CDT back in 1989, and subsequently achieved
Certified Construction Specifier status a couple of years later. There’s no
doubt in my mind that studying for and passing both examinations has served me
very well professionally. What I learned provided me with a solid knowledge
base I’ve relied upon throughout my career. I know I’m a much better architect
than I might have been without the benefit of what I learned through those two
certification programs. I truly believe this knowledge equipped me with the
ability to better cope with the accelerating changes in our industry by
ensuring I first thoroughly grasped the time-tested fundamentals of
construction documentation and communications.
I highly encourage any of you who are
simply curious about CDT certification to seriously consider learning more
about its value. Ask others besides me who have become CDTs. Or check out CSI’s
YouTubechannel for informational webinars about its certification programs. The
webinars provide more information than I have shared here. Each webinar covers
the requirements and resources needed for successful exam preparation and
study. Many local CSI chapters (including the Willamette Valley Chapter) also
offer educational courses to help those interested prepare for the
examinations.
As the
saying goes, knowledge is power. Knowledge provides a competitive edge. Give
your knowledge about construction documents and communication a boost by
becoming a Construction Documents Technologist. The true value of CDT
certification is beyond calculation—it’s priceless.
* *
* * *
January 31 was the early registration deadline for the spring Certification Examinations but it's still not too late to sign up for them. If I’ve convinced you of the value of becoming a Construction Documents Technologist, why wait? Act now by clicking here. The last day for registration is February 29. The dates for the examinations are March 29 through April 30 in the US and Canada (the CDT exam is also offered internationally). If you’re not currently a member of CSI, consider joining and you’ll save on the cost of the examination registration fees.
CDT Examination Fees:
- CSI Member: $295
- Non-member: $430
No comments:
Post a Comment