The checklist
Every item in a furniture package should carry the following before it goes out for pricing. Where an entry is unknown, say so explicitly so the quotation records the assumption.
- Item reference, room type and quantity
- Dimensioned drawing or a clear photographic reference
- Material and construction requirements
- Finish, colour and sheen with a physical reference where possible
- Fabric or leather with grade and rub test expectation
- Fire, moisture and durability performance required
- Hardware, mechanisms and electrical components
- Packing, labelling and delivery expectations
- Spares and attic stock quantities
Where specifications usually fail
The most common gaps are edge details, concealed construction, hardware brand and the exact finish reference. These are the items a factory will resolve in its own favour if left open.
Keeping the specification alive
A specification that is not updated when a substitution is agreed stops being useful. Every approved change should be recorded against the item so the inspection at the factory has something reliable to check against.