Deliverable

Definition

A deliverable is a specific, tangible output or result that is produced as part of a project or process, often defined in the planning stages. It represents a goal that must be achieved within a certain timeframe and usually meets agreed-upon criteria or requirements. In the context of project management, deliverables help track progress and provide measurable outcomes for stakeholders.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Deliverables can be both tangible, like software products or design mockups, and intangible, such as reports or presentations.
2. Each deliverable should have specific acceptance criteria to ensure it meets the expectations of stakeholders.
3. During sprint planning, deliverables are identified and broken down into smaller tasks that can be managed within the sprint timeframe.
4. Successful delivery of all planned deliverables is crucial for project completion and stakeholder satisfaction.
5. Deliverables are often linked to project timelines and budgets, making their successful execution essential for project success.

Review Questions

• How do deliverables influence the planning and execution phases of a project?
  • Deliverables serve as benchmarks for both planning and execution phases by providing clear objectives that guide the project's direction. In the planning phase, they help define the project's scope and outline what needs to be accomplished. During execution, monitoring the progress of deliverables ensures that the project stays on track and meets deadlines, while also allowing for adjustments if necessary.
• Discuss how acceptance criteria for deliverables can impact project outcomes and stakeholder satisfaction.
  • Acceptance criteria are critical because they set the standards by which deliverables are evaluated. If the criteria are clear and agreed upon from the start, it minimizes misunderstandings and helps ensure that the final output meets stakeholder expectations. When deliverables meet their acceptance criteria successfully, it leads to greater satisfaction among stakeholders and increases the likelihood of project success.
• Evaluate the role of deliverables in agile methodologies, particularly during sprint planning and review.
  • In agile methodologies, deliverables play a central role during sprint planning as they help teams focus on achievable outcomes within each sprint. They allow teams to prioritize work effectively based on what will provide the most value. During sprint review sessions, teams assess the completed deliverables against the initial goals and acceptance criteria. This evaluation fosters a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging teams to reflect on their performance and identify areas for growth in future sprints.

Related terms

Milestone: A significant point in a project timeline that marks the completion of a key phase or task, often tied to deliverables.

Scope: The boundaries and extent of a project that define what is included and what is not, which directly affects the deliverables.

Backlog: A prioritized list of tasks or deliverables that need to be completed, typically used in agile project management.