We specialise in protecting design intent at the interface of design and construction

We are architectural specification writers, design managers and document technology specialists.

Davis Langdon Schumann Smith (DLSS) is the market leader in delivering detailed specifications for projects anywhere in the world. Over 100 firms of architects have outsourced their specification function to us – because they trust us to help realise their designs within the contractual context.

The growing involvement of contractors and specialist suppliers in the design process, the increasing complexity and sophistication of modern buildings and their construction has generated the need for a new kind of service – one focused on preserving and accurately communicating design intent between all parties to the contract.

We can provide consultants who work as an integral part of the designers' team, acquiring a full understanding of the designers' aspirations and intent.
Each project is the responsibility of a partner, supervising a production team dedicated to the client. Information is gathered at meetings, during discussion, via fax, e-mail and drawings. It is then collated, checked and examined in order to produce a series of draft specifications for review by the designers as the design progresses.

Specifications are developed in parallel with the drawings and ready for delivery at the requisite stage. Project specifications are fully integrated with the tender and contract documentation produced by other team members.

Davis Langdon Schumann Smith can also support a client's in-house specification production team by providing, supporting, hosting and/or producing documentation using our specially developed, dynamic, web-based system.

Procurement documentation on major fast track projects involves the integration of information prepared by different consultants. We can co-ordinate this process to ensure that the critical documentation do not conflict or repeat.