One of the pillars of the project delivery process is the management of the quality of the product or service a construction company provides. The project specifications generally spell out the quality standards for the project and by reference become a part of the contract between the project owner and the contractor.

The specifications usually reference some standard, such as ASTM, ANSI, ACI, AWS, or other organizations which spell out quality or workmanship standards. In many cases, the specifications may use such terms as “Normal and Customary” or “Function for its Intended Use (purpose)” to define quality.

Workmanship is not defined in Division 01—General Requirements or the American Institute of Architects form A201—General Conditions of the Contract for Construction. The American Heritage Dictionary defines workmanship as “1. The skill of a craftsperson or artisan. 2. The quality of something made, as by an artisan. 3. Something made or produced by workman. 4. The product of an effort or endeavor.” Such terms are not specific and are subject to some interpretation, which could result in misunderstandings or disputes.