What type of documents are used in performance-based acquisitions?

Performance-based acquisitions focus on the outcomes and results of a contract rather than the means and methods of performance. Therefore, performance-oriented documents are central to these types of acquisitions. These documents typically outline the required performance outcomes, standards of performance, and how success will be measured, ensuring that the contractor remains focused on delivering value and meeting specific needs rather than simply fulfilling detailed instructions.

In contrast, design documents would emphasize how to achieve the results rather than the performance itself. Policy documents generally provide guidance and regulations for the acquisition process but do not specifically address the performance outcomes desired. Financial documents are primarily concerned with budgeting and expenditure tracking, which are important but do not directly relate to the performance outcomes targeted in performance-based acquisitions. Performance-oriented documents align contract requirements with desired outcomes, thus fostering accountability and innovation on the contractor's part.