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

The following was extracted from Subpart 9.303 of the FAR:

[First article] testing and approval may be appropriate when --

(a) The contractor has not previously furnished the product to the Government; (b) The contractor previously furnished the product to the Government, but --

(1) There have been subsequent changes in processes or specifications; (2) Production has been discontinued for an extended period of time; or

(3) The product acquired under a previous contract developed a problem during its life;

(c) The product is described by a performance specification; or

(d) It is essential to have an approved first article to serve as a manufacturing standard.

The following was extracted from Subpart 9.304 of the FAR:

Normally, [first article] testing and approval is not required in contracts for -- (a) Research or development;

(b) Products requiring qualification before award (e.g., when an applicable qualified products list exists (see Subpart 9.2));

(c) Products normally sold in the commercial market; or

(d) Products covered by complete and detailed technical specifications, unless the requirements are so novel or exacting that it is questionable whether the products would meet the requirements without testing and approval.

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