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

Item specification. A type of program-unique specification that describes the form, fit, and function and method for acceptance of parts, components, and other items that are elements of a system.

Material specification. A type of program-unique specification that describes such raw or processed materials as metals, plastics, chemicals, synthetics, fabrics, and any other material that has not been fabricated into a finished part or item.

Non-Government standard. A national or international standardization document developed by a private sector association, organization, or technical society that plans, develops, establishes, or coordinates standards, specifications, handbooks, or related documents. The term does not include standards of individual companies. Non-Government standards adopted by the DoD are listed in the ASSIST database.

Performance specification. A specification that states requirements in terms of the required results with criteria for verifying compliance, but without stating the methods for achieving the required results. A performance specification defines the functional requirements for the item, the environment in which it must operate, and interface and interchangeability characteristics. Both defense specifications and program-unique specifications may be designated as a performance specification.

Process specification. A type of program-unique specification that describes the procedures for fabricating or treating materials and items.

Program-unique specification. A specification that describes a system, item, software program, process, or material developed and produced (including repetitive production and spares purchases) for use within a specific program, or as a part of a single system and for which there is judged to be little potential for use by other systems.

Qualification. A process in advance of and independent of an acquisition by which a manufacturer's capabilities, or a manufacturer's or distributor's products are examined, tested,

and approved to be in conformance with specification requirements, and subsequent approval for or listing of products on a qualified products list (QPL) or manufacturers on a qualified manufacturers list (QML).

Software specification. A type of program-unique specification that describes the requirements and verification of requirements for the automatic acquisition, storage, manipulation, management, movement, control, display, switching, interchange, transmission, or reception of data or information.

Specification. A document prepared to support acquisition that describes essential technical requirements for materiel and the criteria for determining whether those requirements are met.