Deliverables

Definition

Deliverables are the specific outcomes or outputs that are produced as part of a project. They can be tangible products, reports, or services that are required to meet the goals of a project. These outcomes must meet certain standards and criteria for quality, as they represent the completion of project tasks and help ensure that the project's objectives are met.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Deliverables can be categorized into internal and external deliverables; internal deliverables are for project team use while external deliverables are provided to stakeholders or clients.
2. Every deliverable should have specific acceptance criteria that define what makes it complete and satisfactory to stakeholders.
3. Deliverables play a crucial role in stakeholder communication, as they represent tangible evidence of progress and achievement in a project.
4. The identification of deliverables is a key step in the planning phase of a project, as it helps set expectations and guide resource allocation.
5. Changes to deliverables may require formal change control processes to ensure that all stakeholders agree on the modifications and their impact on the overall project.

Review Questions

• How do deliverables contribute to successful project completion?
  • Deliverables are essential for successful project completion because they represent the tangible outcomes needed to achieve the project's goals. By clearly defining what needs to be produced, teams can allocate resources effectively and track progress. When deliverables meet their acceptance criteria, they ensure that stakeholders' expectations are fulfilled, reinforcing trust and satisfaction in the project's execution.
• In what ways can changes to project deliverables impact timelines and resource management?
  • Changes to project deliverables can significantly affect timelines and resource management by necessitating adjustments in planning and execution. When deliverables change, teams may need to reallocate resources or alter schedules to accommodate new tasks or requirements. This could lead to delays or increased costs if not managed effectively, highlighting the importance of having a formal change control process in place.
• Evaluate how clearly defined deliverables influence stakeholder satisfaction throughout a project's lifecycle.
  • Clearly defined deliverables greatly influence stakeholder satisfaction by providing transparency and measurable progress throughout a project's lifecycle. When stakeholders understand what outcomes are expected and see regular updates on these deliverables, they feel more engaged and confident in the project's direction. Additionally, meeting or exceeding expectations related to these deliverables fosters trust and positive relationships between project teams and stakeholders, which is crucial for long-term success.

Related terms

Milestones: Milestones are significant points or events in a project timeline that indicate progress toward achieving project deliverables.

Scope: Scope refers to the boundaries of a project, defining what is included and excluded, including the deliverables that are to be produced.

Project Management Plan: The Project Management Plan is a formal document that outlines how a project will be executed, monitored, and controlled, including details about the deliverables.