Performance Specifications (also known as functional specifications) are preferred since they communicate what a product is to do, rather than how it is to be built. Among the ingredients of a performance specification would be the following:
A general description;
Required characteristics to performance (minimum/maximum) including speed, storage, production capacity, usage, ability to perform a specific function;
Operational requirements, such as limitations on environment, water or air cooling, electrical requirements;
Site preparation requirements for which the contractor will be responsible, such as electricity, plumbing, or for which the university will be responsible;
Compatibility requirements with existing equipment or programs;
Conversion requirements for maintaining current equipment or system until switching to the new equipment or system;
