What are Project Deliverables?
Project deliverables are the tangible or intangible outputs that a project produces to meet its objectives and satisfy the client or stakeholders. Deliverables are measurable, specific results that the project is committed to delivering at different stages or upon completion.
🔹 Key Question: “What will the project deliver to the stakeholders?”
🔹 Objective: Ensure that the project provides clear, high-quality outputs as agreed with stakeholders.
Types of Project Deliverables
1. Tangible Deliverables
Tangible deliverables are physical outputs or items that can be touched, seen, or interacted with.
📌 Examples:
- Product: A completed product (e.g., software application, manufactured goods).
- Documentation: Reports, user manuals, project plans, or contracts.
- Prototypes: Working models or samples.
- Construction Projects: Buildings, roads, or bridges.
- Training Materials: Slides, courseware, or instructional guides.
2. Intangible Deliverables
Intangible deliverables are non-physical outputs that represent value, but cannot be physically touched.
📌 Examples:
- Knowledge: Research findings or industry insights.
- Skills: Trained employees or completed certification programs.
- Services: Consulting services, strategic advice, or recommendations.
- Agreements: Signed contracts or negotiated terms.
3. Interim Deliverables (Milestones)
Some projects have intermediate deliverables or milestones that help track progress. These are typically smaller outputs that need to be completed before moving on to the next phase.
📌 Examples:
- Design Completion: A finished design document or prototype.
- Mid-term Report: A progress report sent to stakeholders at project midpoint.
- Approval: Client sign-off on initial drafts or designs.
Why are Deliverables Important?
✔ Clarity & Expectations: Clearly defined deliverables set expectations for both the project team and stakeholders.
✔ Progress Tracking: They help track progress and ensure that milestones are achieved on time.
✔ Client Satisfaction: Deliverables ensure that stakeholder requirements are met.
✔ Performance Measurement: Provide a way to measure project success and outcomes.
How to Define Project Deliverables
1. Understand Stakeholder Requirements
Before identifying deliverables, it’s crucial to understand what the client or stakeholders expect from the project.
📌 Steps to Understand Requirements:
- Meet with stakeholders to discuss their needs and expectations.
- Document requirements to ensure clarity and reference throughout the project.
- Clarify scope and objectives to avoid misunderstandings later.
2. Break Down the Project into Deliverable-Based Phases
Once the requirements are clear, break the project into manageable phases, each with its own set of deliverables.
📌 Example Breakdown for Software Development:
- Phase 1: Requirements gathering and initial documentation.
- Phase 2: Design (UI/UX wireframes, database schema).
- Phase 3: Development (working software features).
- Phase 4: Testing (QA reports, bug fixes).
- Phase 5: Deployment (live application, user guides).
3. Ensure Deliverables are Measurable & Specific
Define deliverables that are measurable and specific, which will make them easier to track and evaluate.
📌 Examples of Clear Deliverables:
- “Deliver a fully functional mobile app with 3 main features (user login, payment gateway, and product catalog) by the end of Month 3.”
- “Provide a completed project documentation with sections on user manuals, system requirements, and design specifications.”
4. Define the Acceptance Criteria for Deliverables
Each deliverable should have clear acceptance criteria that define how it will be reviewed and accepted by stakeholders.
📌 Examples of Acceptance Criteria:
- Design Deliverable: Must pass a review with the design team and get approval from the client.
- Software Application: Must pass all test cases and achieve 95% bug-free status.
- Construction: Must meet building codes and client specifications.
Common Types of Project Deliverables and Examples
| Deliverable Type | Example | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Product Deliverables | Final Software Application | The main product or outcome of the project. |
| Reports | Final Project Report, Status Updates | Documentation that communicates project progress. |
| Designs and Blueprints | UI/UX Wireframes, Architecture Diagrams | Visual representations of the solution being built. |
| Prototypes | Functional Prototype or Sample Product | Early models to test concepts or product ideas. |
| Training Materials | User Guides, Tutorials, Workshops | Materials used for training stakeholders or users. |
| Contracts/Agreements | Signed Agreement with Client or Vendor | Legal documents formalizing the terms of the project. |
| Completed Milestones | Approval Sign-offs, Stage Deliverables (e.g., Alpha Version) | Achievements that signify completion of a phase. |
| Services | Consultation, Advisory Reports | Expert insights and guidance provided to clients. |
Deliverables Management Process
1. Planning & Definition
- Clearly define the deliverables at the start of the project.
- Incorporate feedback from stakeholders during the planning phase to align expectations.
2. Task Allocation
- Assign the responsibility of each deliverable to specific team members or departments.
3. Tracking & Monitoring
- Use project management tools like JIRA, Trello, or MS Project to track the progress of deliverables.
- Ensure regular status updates are communicated to stakeholders.
4. Quality Control
- Review each deliverable to ensure it meets the defined criteria before submitting for approval.
5. Delivery & Handover
- Once deliverables are approved, they are delivered to the client or stakeholders.
- Ensure all documentation and support materials are provided along with the deliverable.
Challenges in Managing Project Deliverables
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Unclear Deliverables | Engage stakeholders early to define clear deliverables. |
| Scope Creep | Implement a strict change management process. |
| Missed Deadlines | Set realistic deadlines and break down deliverables into smaller milestones. |
| Quality Issues | Use quality assurance processes (testing, reviews) to ensure deliverables meet standards. |
| Stakeholder Disagreement | Regularly communicate and validate deliverables with stakeholders to prevent misunderstandings. |
Example: Deliverables for an E-Commerce Website Project
| Task/Phase | Deliverable | Acceptance Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1: Requirement Gathering | Requirements Document | Approved by client and stakeholders. |
| Phase 2: UI/UX Design | Design Wireframes and Prototype | Approved by client, meets user experience goals. |
| Phase 3: Development | Fully Developed Website | Website must be functional and meet design specs. |
| Phase 4: Testing | QA Reports, Bug Fixes | 95% bug-free, passes user testing. |
| Phase 5: Deployment | Live Website, User Guides, Handover Documents | Successful launch, all documentation delivered. |
Conclusion
Project deliverables are the backbone of any project as they ensure that objectives are met and that all stakeholders are satisfied with the outcomes. Clear, well-defined deliverables are crucial for ensuring that the project is successful, on-time, and within budget. Effective management of deliverables includes:
✅ Clear Definition: Define deliverables at the beginning of the project.
✅ Tracking Progress: Use project management tools to track progress and manage tasks.
✅ Quality Assurance: Ensure each deliverable meets the required standards.
✅ Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate regularly with stakeholders to ensure expectations are aligned.
