Principles of writing specifications

The principles to follow in writing specifications are:

1. Clarity: the language must be simple, direct and have only one meaning; avoid vague words such as "good quality", "as required", "etc."
2. Completeness: all matters about the quality of material, workmanship, tests, measurement and payment must be covered so no important point is left to guesswork.
3. Accuracy: correct technical data, grades, proportions, sizes and references to codes.
4. Brevity (conciseness): no unnecessary words or repetition; use references to standards for long details.
5. Consistency: no conflict with drawings, BOQ and conditions of contract, and the same terms and units throughout.
6. Practicality: the requirements should be achievable with the available materials, skills and equipment, and be cost-effective.
7. Use of standards: follow national and international standards (NS, IS, BS, ASTM) and the norms of DUDBC or the Department of Roads.
8. Enforceability: the specified quality should be testable, with defined tests and tolerances so that it can be checked and rejected.
9. Logical order: arrange by work section, with the same sequence for each item (scope, material, workmanship, tests, measurement).
10. Flexibility and fairness: do not name a brand without allowing "or equivalent"; give an equal chance to all bidders.
11. Command form: say what the contractor shall do ("The contractor shall...").
12. Keep updated: revise the specifications when standards and methods change.