Which statement correctly differentiates performance specifications from prescriptive (proprietary) specifications?

• A. Performance specs require explicit products; prescriptive specs define the performance goal.
• B. Performance specs require the result or performance criteria; prescriptive specs specify exact products or materials to be used.
• C. Both specify performance criteria, but only prescriptive restricts products.
• D. Prescriptive specs require performance criteria, while performance specs specify products.

Answer: (B)

Performance specifications describe the end result the work must achieve, not which product to use. They specify the performance criteria and leave the way to meet it open to the installer, so any product or system that meets the required outcome is acceptable. A prescriptive (proprietary) specification, by contrast, names exact products or materials to be used to achieve the outcome, effectively locking in a particular solution.

For example, a performance spec for flooring might require a specific slip resistance and impact sound rating, allowing any tile or system that meets those numbers. A prescriptive spec would dictate a particular brand and model of tile, with predefined installation methods. The advantage of performance specs is flexibility and potential for better value or substitutions if needed, while prescriptive specs ensure consistency but limit choices.