How is an outcome-focused specification created?

An outcome-focused specification is created by developing contract design because this approach emphasizes defining the desired outcomes rather than just the inputs or processes involved. When formulating this type of specification, the focus is on what the end result should look like, including performance criteria, quality levels, and other measurable deliverables. This helps ensure that suppliers understand the objectives they need to meet, allowing for better alignment between the parties involved.

By centering the specification on outcomes, organizations can encourage innovation and flexibility from suppliers, as they may adopt various methods to achieve the specified results. This method contrasts with approaches that may rely solely on previous contracts or supplier input, which can limit creativity and the potential for optimized performance. The contract design process allows for a structured approach to define expectations clearly, which ultimately leads to achieving the organization's strategic goals.