Using performance specifications for construction projects - guidance

This guide looks at how increased use of performance-based specifications may presents markets and projects to greater use of modern methods of construction (MMC) or ‘industrialisation of construction’. It does this by helping specifiers develop approaches that clearly define what they need, while not being overly prescriptive in how to achieve them. It also considers the levers and principles needed to make the use of performance-based specification effective, which enables the adoption of more productive and sustainable business models within the UK construction sector. Throughout the guide, a systems-based approach to applying performance specifications is referenced. The guidance aims to be both practical and inspirational, and curates a selection of nine case studies that relate to a wide range of applications. These intend to both provide inspiration and to demonstrate what is currently feasible. The reader is likely to learn lessons from at least one. Finally, the guidance returns to the subject of levers and principles needed to make the use of performance-based specification effective. It presents nine organisational building blocks for the successful deployment of MMC and outlining objectives, actions and desired outcomes for each.