Buying by specification refers to the purchasing process in which a customer or buyer provides detailed specifications or requirements for a product or service they wish to purchase, enabling suppliers to meet those specific needs. In this type of buying, the buyer typically defines the exact details, characteristics, and features they desire in the product or service, leaving no room for ambiguity.
The process of buying by specification involves the buyer outlining their specific requirements in terms of performance, quality, size, design, materials, or any other relevant factors. These specifications may include technical details, dimensions, tolerances, performance standards, or even legal and safety considerations. The buyer may communicate the specifications through written documents such as RFQs (Request for Quotations) or RFPs (Request for Proposals).
Suppliers or vendors who can meet the specified requirements then submit their proposals or offers, including pricing, delivery schedules, and other relevant details. The buyer evaluates these offers based on their compliance with the given specifications and selects the most suitable supplier.
Buying by specification is often preferred when a buyer has unique or specific needs that require customization or when they want to ensure that the purchased product or service meets their exact requirements. It helps in minimizing the risk of receiving products that do not fulfill the intended purpose or lack certain desired features.
