Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions about Document Waivers are listed below.


Document Waivers

Q: Is a waiver still required to cite a detailed specification or standard in a solicitation?
A: No. The purpose for requiring waivers during the Acquisition Reform initiative in the 1990’s was to ensure that careful thought and justification was given before requiring use of a detailed specification or standard. This was to change the culture of citing specifications and standards automatically without evaluating the need for, or the impact caused by, each document. Such automatic imposition often had the effect of increasing costs, limiting technological innovation, and making it difficult to determine the critical requirements. Although DoD personnel are still encouraged to give careful thought to the specifications and standards cited in any solicitation, the September 2014 issuance of DODM 4120.24 eliminated the waiver requirement.