Which party primarily develops the shop drawings?

The party that primarily develops shop drawings is subcontractors and vendors. Shop drawings serve as detailed illustrations created to show how specific components of a project will be fabricated and installed. These drawings typically include dimensions, materials, and other pertinent information, which allows for better visualization and coordination of the work.

Subcontractors and vendors take the lead in creating these drawings because they are directly involved in the production and installation of specific systems or components. For instance, an HVAC subcontractor will prepare shop drawings for ductwork, while a plumbing vendor will create drawings for piping systems. By providing these detailed representations, they ensure that their work aligns accurately with the architectural and engineering plans provided by the architects and general contractors.

General contractors oversee the construction process and coordinate between different parties but do not typically create these detailed drawings themselves. Architects focus more on the overall design and aesthetics of a project and provide initial designs and specifications rather than the precise details needed for fabrication. Construction managers concentrate on project management and oversight rather than the development of specific technical drawings.

Therefore, the role of developing shop drawings is primarily held by subcontractors and vendors who provide the detailed information necessary for fabrication and installation.