In which industries are performance specifications typically not allowed?

Performance specifications are documents that outline how a product or service should perform, rather than detailing the physical characteristics or design of that product. In industries where safety, compliance, and risk management are paramount, such as defense, pharmacy, and food, relying solely on performance specifications can lead to significant risks.

For instance, in the defense industry, the stakes are incredibly high, with the potential for national security impacts. This necessitates detailed specifications to ensure that products meet stringent safety and operational standards. Similarly, in the pharmaceutical and food industries, regulatory requirements demand meticulous controls around quality and safety that are best served by explicitly defined specifications, including strict guidelines on ingredients, processes, and health regulations.

These industries prioritize compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks, leading to a preference for prescriptive specifications that provide clear and measurable criteria to safeguard public health and safety. Consequently, performance specifications can create ambiguity and increase the risk of non-compliance, making them typically not allowed in these sectors.