In CSI’s project delivery and construction phase discussions, the time between ordering an item and its arrival on the project site ready for use is referred to as “lead time.”
For construction planning and scheduling, lead time is critical because:
It affects when submittals must be prepared, reviewed, and approved.
It determines when purchase orders must be issued to avoid delays.
Long-lead items (such as custom equipment, certain mechanical/electrical components, curtain wall systems, etc.) must be identified early so the project schedule can accommodate them.
Among the options:
Why the other options are incorrect:
A. Estimated time of arrival“Estimated time of arrival” (ETA) may be used informally in logistics, but CSI’s scheduling and procurement discussions specifically use “lead time” for the planning parameter from order to arrival.
B. Procurement time“Procurement time” is a generic phrase, not a defined CSI term. In practice, procurement may include internal approvals, budgeting, and other steps beyond the order-to-arrival period.
D. Manufacturing timeManufacturing time is only one component of lead time (which might also include design, submittal, shipping, customs, etc.). It does not necessarily cover the full period until the item is on site.
Key CSI Reference Titles (no links):
CSI Project Delivery Practice Guide – chapters on Construction Phase scheduling and procurement/lead times.
CSI Construction Specifications Practice Guide – Division 01 scheduling and submittals, including handling of long-lead items.
CSI CDT Body of Knowledge – “Construction Phase: Schedule, Submittals, and Procurement.”
