NBS usage by smaller practices

Up until now the majority of NBS Chorus case studies have been featuring larger practices. Practices such as Maber, Ryder, AHMM, BDP, Franklin Ellis... large practices working on big projects.

However, since the launch of NBS Chorus Small Works a few months ago, we're now seeing smaller practices use this tailored package to make it work for them.

The Small Works version of Chorus makes use of a selection of the CAWS work sections from the trusted minor works and intermediate SpecWriter/Building libraries. Perfect for works of a less complex nature, but utilising all of the power of the Chorus software platform. You might not be able to write a performance spec for a curtain walling or green roof package whilst on a design and build project - but most small projects don't need these.

Our small works case study features the practice J Foster. Find out more about J Foster's experience in the full case study at the URL below. Some selected screengrabs and quotes in this blog post.

- https://www.thenbs.com/knowledge/customer-success-story-j-foster-architects

A list of work sections with pre-written specification clauses and guidance

 

Specifying manufacturer products prior to tender

A published PDF record of the various revisions of the specification

Manipulating the content to produce a priceable spreadsheet with highlighted items

Integrating the specification with 3D model to ensure all information is coordinated

Issuing drawings and schedules knowing they are fully coordinated with specification

Please read the full case study and listen to the interview on youtube.

- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlBZjtByFj0

...and to finish with a couple of quotes:

Working on a Mac
"The way I work, is that there is a desktop PC in the studio and a Mac at home and I have been able to work pretty fluidly and seamlessly between the two. This is a major difference from how I used to work with NBS Building which was PC based and work could only be carried out in the studio space."

How a good specification can be more important for a small practice than large
"For small practices, although the jobs are smaller, there is a lot more risk as you are doing a lot more yourself. So what I learned from when I worked at a big practice is the true power and risk reduction through management of a project through a specification. For a small practice environment it’s even more crucial. It is your safety net, it allows you to deliver projects to a level of quality whilst protecting yourself. Making sure everything is included and priced."