Singapore Standards CP 93 :2002
Code of Practice for Classification of Construction Resources Information
Adaption of MasterFormat
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there a need for a national standard to classify construction resources information?
There is a need to develop a standardized format for classifying construction resources to facilitate procurement activities in the construction industry. As construction projects use a broad range of products and services, there is an even greater need for a classification standard to ensure a consistent and structured way of information exchange and storage to reduce any duplication of work. A listing of numbers and titles organizes information about construction resources or, more specifically, construction products and activities describing the physical aspects of construction. It presents a uniform system for classifying information relating to construction products, materials, services and machinery.
Who are the direct users of the standard?
The main users are those directly involved in construction resource specification, pricing and procurement, such as architects, M&E and C&S engineers, quantity surveyors. contractors and materials suppliers. Other users are property developers and facility managers.
Why is a hybrid standard, based on a combination of international standards, not preferred?
A hybrid standard is not preferred as it would only create a new system unique to Singapore. In the long term, the purpose for IT standards is to enable local firms to interoperate with firms outside Singapore, and a localized or customized standard would only hinder this process. The wider use of common standards only serves to bring down communication barriers among players in the global arena. To supplement this standard, a list of local terminology has been incorporated to aid local users in familiarizing themselves with an international terminology. Over time, there should ideally be one or two universal standards
applicable worldwide.
What are the user benefits of the standard?
The key benefit for users is interoperability, especially in the area of e-procurement which is largely dependent on efficient information exchange between trading firms, both local and overseas. Typically, the value of procurement accounts for more than 70 percent to 80 percent of the contract value. Hence, increased familiarity with a uniform standard would lead to an overall increase in the firm’s productivity, translating to cost savings over time. In addition, it being a national standard, users would benefit from regular maintenance refinements on the standard over time.