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orequal
Glossary

Basis of design

The product a design was built around, named in the spec as the reference other products are measured against.

When a specification names a basis-of-design product, the architect or engineer designed the assembly around that product’s dimensions, performance and appearance. Other manufacturers may still be acceptable, either because they are listed alongside it or because the spec allows an equal.

The basis-of-design product usually sits in Part 2 of the section, in the article on manufacturers or products.

Why it matters to manufacturers

Being basis of design is the strongest position on a project, but not a lock. When a competitor is basis of design and the spec allows an equal, the project is still winnable if you act before the substitution deadline.

Read more: The full guide to basis of design

Related terms

Or approved equalSpec language that lets a product other than the named one be used, if the design professional accepts it as equal.Listed manufacturersA spec that names two or more acceptable manufacturers for a product.Proprietary specificationA spec that names a single product and allows no substitutes.

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