When materials are specified to be alternate, what documentation is necessary?

When materials are specified to be alternate, evaluation reports or research reports are essential because they provide the necessary evidence to support the performance and suitability of the alternate materials. These documents typically contain assessments from recognized organizations or authorities that evaluate the materials based on standards and criteria relevant to the project. They offer objective analysis and data that demonstrate how these alternate materials will perform in relation to the specified requirements.

Sales brochures might contain promotional information without rigorous testing or evaluation, which is insufficient for establishing compliance with project specifications. Oral presentations may offer insights but lack the formal documentation required for verification. Standard operating procedures, while important for internal processes, do not provide the necessary third-party validation or comparative analysis needed for alternate materials. This is why evaluation reports or research reports are necessary, as they warrant that the alternate materials are credible and capable of fulfilling the intended functions in the project.