Editing Question--Punch list or Punchlist?

[Kirk Turner]

I know that this is a small point, but is the word "punchlist" (punch
list?) one word or two? I've looked at the usual references, and it
seems that "punch list" is correct; however, one or two authoritative
sources affirm "punchlist" as correct. As an aside, Word indicates that
punchlist is incorrect, which I guess means . . .

More importantly, every single architect and construction manager in the
company uses "punchlist," and they should know, right? I'm not going to
edit their use to "punch list" unless I'm pretty doggone sure that it is
right.

And at the end of the day, if there is no authoritative usage that is
consistent, shouldn't I just leave it alone? I wouldn't care, but it is
used about 30 times throughout a new manual.

Any ideas/opinions?

Thanks,
Kirk Turner

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[HBac...@aol.com]

I believe your are talking about the 'construction industry'.
You might also be talking about the 'telecommunications/networking industry'.

What I have heard in both areas is 'punchdown list'.

In the construction industry it is the person that goes in after the
customer has signed for the property, and within 30 days (or similar) timeframe
submits a list of things that need to be fixed to the contractor.

In the telecommunications/networking industry it is the connecting of wires
to a 'punchblock' that is in the 'telephone closet/wire closet'.

Going to Google/AOL search show a majority of the references use
'punchlist', with a smattering of 'punch list' thrown in.

I would suggest picking one "punchlist'. Then in your glossary use both in
the list (punchlist/punch list). In each case, list the definition you
choose, then refer to the other as in 'see also ...'

Harry
Harry