Recorded live from Cleveland, this episode of What the RFI? dives into the energy, insights, and connections shaping CSI National 2025. Host Matt Brennan sits down with Nish Patel (RIB North America), Eric Letbetter (Letbetter Inc.), and Dory Azar (Architect & Product Specialist, RIB Software) to explore how the world of spec writing, RFIs, and construction collaboration is evolving.

From making spec writing engaging and “cool again” to the growing role of digital twins, reality capture, and AI-driven construction management, this roundtable captures the pulse of where the industry is heading. The conversation also digs into the value of networking, the power of community among spec writers, and how collaboration—not conflict—drives better buildings.

🎧 Topics include:

• Lessons and laughs from CSI 2025 in Cleveland
• Why RFIs should be seen as collaboration, not confrontation
• The rebirth of spec writing as a creative and technical craft
• Digital innovation: 360 scanning, QR-coded assets, and progress tracking
• Future trends in flexible building design and sustainability

Chapters

• 00:00 – Live from CSI 2025: Introductions
• 04:38 – Networking and learning at CSI
• 10:43 – Making spec writing engaging and collaborative
• 16:58 – Collaboration and community in construction
• 22:14 – RFIs, relationships, and problem-solving
• 28:34 – Future trends and flexible building design
• 34:20 – Digital innovation and AI in construction management
• 38:12 – Final thoughts and the future of the industry

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