Recorded live from Cleveland, Ohio at the CSI National 2025, this roundtable explores CSI 2025 spec writing and construction collaboration, bringing together industry leaders to discuss the future of specifications, RFIs, and digital innovation.
🎙️ The Episode
Episode 38 of What the RFI? brings listeners right into the heart of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) National Conference in Cleveland. This annual gathering of architects, spec writers, and product representatives is where some of the most important conversations in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry take place. From the latest digital tools to the human side of collaboration, the 2025 conference showcased how the next generation of professionals is transforming the way buildings are designed, documented, and delivered.
Host Matt Brennan sits down with an all-star lineup of guests:
• Nish Patil – Group Product Manager at RIB North America
• Eric Letbetter – Specification Consultant, Letbetter ink, LLC
• Dory Azar – Architect and Product Specialist, RIB Software
Together, they explore how spec writing, collaboration, and construction technology are evolving into a more connected, creative, and rewarding practice for everyone involved.
“How do we make spec writing cool again? That’s really the challenge, to make it more personable, creative, and something people want to engage with.” — Nish Patil, RIB North America
Highlights from the Roundtable
Networking & Community
CSI has always been about connection, and this year’s event in Cleveland didn’t disappoint. For many attendees, it was their first time meeting longtime LinkedIn contacts face-to-face.
“It’s amazing to walk in and realize you already know half the room, not from business cards, but from conversations online.” — Matt Brennan
The panel discussed how spec writers, architects, and product reps are forming a community that’s more collaborative than competitive.
“For a tight-knit group, you’d think it would be competitive, but it’s the exact opposite. Everyone’s trying to lift each other up.” — Dory Azar
RFIs as Collaboration, Not Confrontation
One of the biggest mindset shifts discussed at CSI 2025 was how RFIs (Requests for Information) can be reframed as opportunities for collaboration, not conflict.
“When we think of RFIs, we often assume it’s adversarial, that someone made a mistake. But really, it’s an opportunity to problem-solve together.” — Nish Patil
The group shared real-world stories from projects where open communication between contractors, architects, and consultants led to better, faster outcomes.
Digital Innovation & the Future of Spec Writing
From AI-assisted specs to reality capture and digital twins, technology is rapidly transforming how design teams coordinate construction projects.
“If we can scan a site before drywall goes up, capture everything in 360, and connect it to specs, that’s the future of Construction Administration.” — Matt Brennan
The conversation also touched on sustainability, integrated project delivery, and designing for adaptability, all of which are key trends driving modern practice.
“Buildings have to evolve over time. The real challenge is designing for flexibility.” — Eric Letbetter
The Takeaway
CSI 2025 reinforced that spec writing isn’t just a technical exercise. It’s storytelling, collaboration, and problem-solving rolled into one.
“A great spec is like a recipe. It sets the foundation for a better, more sustainable built environment.” — Nish Patil
And as the panel reminded us, the construction community thrives when we share knowledge. Whether you’re writing your first spec or leading a team through complex CA, the key ingredient is collaboration.
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