What is an Architectural Supplemental Instruction (ASI) in the contract process?

• A. A directive to modify construction methods issued by the contractor.
• B. A formal change order executed by the owner.
• C. A written instruction from the design professional to clarify or modify design requirements.
• D. A field instruction from the QA team to the site superintendent.

Answer: (C)

An Architectural Supplemental Instruction is a written instruction from the design professional that clarifies or modifies design requirements. It is issued during construction when the drawings or specifications need interpretation or adjustment to correctly reflect the design intent, not to change the contract price or timeline by itself. This helps ensure the work is built as intended without ambiguity.

It’s not something the contractor issues to change methods, not a formal change order executed by the owner, and not a field instruction from QA. If the clarification or modification does affect cost or schedule, a separate change process would address those impacts.