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

APPENDIX A DEFINITIONS

The following definitions of terms used in this guide were extracted from MIL-STD-961,

Defense and Program-Unique Specifications Format and Content.

Acquisition Streamlining and Standardization Information System (ASSIST).  The official database containing information about standardization documents used in the DoD.  ASSIST also provides electronic access to government documents included in the database over the Internet.  ASSIST can be accessed at https://assist.daps.dla/quicksearch/ or https://assist.daps.dla.mil.

Analysis.  An element of verification that uses established technical or mathematical models or simulations, algorithms, charts, graphs, circuit diagrams, or other scientific principles and procedures to provide evidence that stated requirements were met.

Defense specification.  A specification developed under the consensus procedures of the Defense Standardization Program that is used on multiple programs or applications and is included in the ASSIST database.

Demonstration.  An element of verification that involves the actual operation of an item to provide evidence that the required functions were accomplished under specific scenarios.  The items may be instrumented and performance monitored.

Detail specification.  A specification that specifies design requirements, such as materials to be used, how a requirement is to be achieved, or how an item is to be fabricated or constructed.  A specification that contains both performance and detail requirements is still considered a detail specification.  Both defense specifications and program-unique specifications may be designated as a detail specification.

Examination.  An element of verification that is generally nondestructive and typically includes the use of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste; simple physical manipulation; and mechanical and electrical gauging and measurement.

Inspection.  The examination and testing of supplies and services to determine whether they conform to specified requirements.

Interchangeable item.  An item which possesses such functional and physical characteristics as to be equivalent in performance, reliability, and maintainability, to another item of similar or identical purposes.  An interchangeable item is capable of being exchanged for the other item without selection for fit or performance, and without alteration of the items themselves or of adjoining items, except for adjustment.

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