Which method of specifying outlines performance criteria for materials?

The method that specifies outlines performance criteria for materials is the performance specification. This approach focuses on the functional requirements and outcomes that a material or system must achieve rather than detailing the material's characteristics or manufacturing processes.

Using performance specifications is essential in interior design as it allows designers to define standards that materials must meet, such as durability, fire resistance, or moisture resistance. This ensures that the materials used will perform effectively in the specific context of the project, leading to higher quality and better longevity of the design.

In contrast, descriptive specifications tend to provide in-depth details about the materials' characteristics and installation methods without focusing strictly on performance outcomes. Proprietary specifications specify a particular brand or product, which might not leave room for performance outcomes from alternative options. Reference standards usually cite objective benchmarks or codes but do not directly outline performance criteria in the same manner as performance specifications do. By using performance specifications, designers can focus on achieving desired outcomes based on the specific needs of the environment and users.