SD-15 Guide For Performance SpecificationsThis document provides guidance information on performance specifications focusing primarily on stating requirements in performance terms and ensuring that sufficient verification means are included in the specification to evaluate conformance. While the focus of this document is on defense specifications developed under DoD 4120.24-M, Defense Standardization Program DSP Policies and Procedures, the principles and techniques can also be applied to program unique performance specifications, performance-based purchase descriptions, commercial item descriptions, or any other type of procurement specification. This guide is intended to supplement the format and content requirements for writing performance specifications found in MIL-STD-961, Defense and Program-Unique Specifications Format and Content.

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Performance Specification Guide SD-15

VERIFICATION

The Government uses various verification techniques (e.g. test and evaluation, demonstration, simulation and modeling, examination, and analysis) to ensure that the systems or items being acquired meet their performance requirements and the user's needs.  With detailed specifications, verification often relies more on examination and demonstration to ensure compliance with the "build-to-print" requirements for specific and extensive lists of materials and parts in the end item.  Since performance specifications do not require specific materials, parts, designs, and processes, there is usually less emphasis on examination and demonstration and more emphasis on test and evaluation, simulation and modeling, and analysis.  While it is often possible to

verify multiple requirements for specific materials and parts in a detailed specification with a single examination or demonstration test, in a performance specification, there is usually a one- for-one correlation between requirements and verification.  A useful approach illustrated in Appendix C is to have a table that matches the requirements with the verification.

The type of verification techniques used in a performance specification and the amount of test and evaluation needed depends upon various risk factors, such as whether the item is used in critical applications, whether development is required or if acceptable nondevelopmental items exist, or whether the technology is well-understood and stable or if it is a rapidly changing technology.  The different types of verification for both performance and detailed specifications tend to be similar and are discussed in MIL-STD-961, Defense and Program-Unique Specifications Format and Content.  While the distinguishing features between performance and detail specifications are primarily in the Section 3 Requirements part of the specification, care should be taken in Section 4 Verification to avoid excessive specification of the testing procedures, and wherever possible, non-Government standards should be cited for the tests. Defining verification methods and criteria are of utmost importance when establishing requirements.  The program assumes unnecessary cost, schedule, and performance risks without detailed and thorough requirements compliance planning.

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