A technical specification defines the detailed technical requirements a product, component, system or service must meet. It provides a basis for design, quotation, production, testing and acceptance.
What can a technical specification include?
- Materials and components
- Dimensions and tolerances
- Interfaces and compatibility
- Performance and operating conditions
- Safety and regulatory standards
- Test methods and documentation
Technical vs. performance specification
A technical specification may prescribe design and construction details. A performance specification emphasizes required results. Many requirements combine both.
How should requirements be written?
Use measurable units, ranges, references and acceptance rules. Identify mandatory requirements separately from preferences and avoid unexplained subjective language.
How should supplier deviations be handled?
Require a documented deviation list before award or production. An unmentioned exception should not be treated as acceptance of a different design.
How should revisions be controlled?
Assign versions, approvals and effective dates; assess effects on cost, tooling, certification and inventory; and preserve the specification used for each order.
