Minnesota DOT (MnDOT) Specification Rewrite

Minnesota DOT (MnDOT) Specification Rewrite

TRAUNER was contracted to develop a style guide specific to MnDOT, perform a plain-language rewrite of the entire standard specifications manual, provide them a print ready document, and develop and provide training to MnDOT’s staff and the contracting community regarding the revisions incorporated into the specifications.

TRAUNER developed a style guide to ensure a consistent approach to the rewrite and also provided a means for MNDOT to continue implementing the rewritten style into the future with new specification sections that are introduced by their design division.

TRAUNER also updated 16 key sections of MNDOT’s General Provisions. A few updated topics included contract changes, dispute resolution, scheduling and time extensions, and compensation for contract revisions. The sections in the General Provisions that were not part of this update process were rewritten like the technical sections, focusing on a plain language rewrite to the active voice and imperative mood, improving the consistency of the language, reducing ambiguities, and applying a consistent style in accordance with the style guide.

Individual tasks performed during this assignment included conducting discussions with MNDOT representatives in order to identify poorly performing specification provisions, compiling recommendations, and submitting these recommendations to MNDOT for its review. After receiving direction from MNDOT as to how to proceed with improvements, TRAUNER began redrafting the provisions. TRAUNER performed an iterative review of submitted drafts and comments from MNDOT until we resolved all outstanding issues.

“TRAUNER’s understanding of nationwide best practices in transportation and their experience…was instrumental.”

Elizabeth Buckley, Minnesota DOT