What is a key purpose of a specification?

A key purpose of a specification is to clarify exactly what is needed and help resolve disputes. Specifications serve as detailed documents that describe the requirements, standards, and conditions that the goods or services must meet. By providing clear and concise information about the expectations, specifications help ensure that all stakeholders have a common understanding of the requirements, which minimizes confusion and potential conflicts.

When specifications are well-defined, they can serve as a reference point for both the supplier and the buyer, thereby reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings that might arise during the procurement process and delivery. This clarity is crucial for the successful completion of a project, as it lays the groundwork for evaluating proposals, measuring performance, and enforcing contractual obligations.

Regarding the other options, while budget and time frame are important aspects of project planning, they fall outside the primary role of specifications. Additionally, identifying potential suppliers is a part of the procurement process but does not directly relate to the specification's purpose of defining requirements.