Communication Quote by Ruby Parker Puckett
““A specification is a clear and concise but complete description of the exact item desired so that all vendors have a common basis for price quotations and bids. As such, it is an essential communication tool between buyer and seller. Specifications should be realistic and should not include details that cannot be verified or tested or that would make the product too costly. Without up-to-date product information, specifications are useless. The specific information varies with each type of food, but all specifications should include at least the following information:Δ Clear, simple description using common or trade or brand name of product; when possible, use a name or standard of identity formulated by the government such as IMPS Amount to be purchased in the most commonly used terms (case, package, or unit) Name and size of basic container (10/10# packages) Count and size of the item or units within the basic container (50 pork chops, 4 ounces each) Range in weight, thickness, or size Minimum and maximum trims, or fat content percentage (ground meat, 90 percent lean and 10 percent fat, referred to as 90/10) Degree of maturity or stage of ripening Type of processing required (such as individually quick-frozen [IQF]) Type of packaging desired Unit on which price will be based Weight tolerance limit (range of acceptable weights, usually in meat, seafood, and poultry)””
About This Quote
Source Technical Guide: Food Specification Standards, 2022
Clear, realistic specifications are essential for fair pricing and product quality; vague or untestable details render them useless.
In simple terms: Good specs lead to fair deals.
Write precise, testable specs.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- procurement
- product development
- quality control
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What details are truly necessary?
- How to balance detail with flexibility?
Specs can become overly rigid, limiting innovation.