In project management, deliverables are the quantifiable goods or services produced as a result of the completion of a project. These items are vital for achieving project goals and objectives and are often defined at the project’s inception.
Types of Deliverables
Deliverables can be broadly classified into two main categories:
Internal Deliverables
Internal deliverables are those that are produced for the internal stakeholders of a project. These are usually not seen by the client or end-user but are critical for the project team’s progress and success. Examples include:
- Project plans
- Status reports
- Process documents
External Deliverables
External deliverables are items that are handed to the client or end-user upon the project’s completion. These are typically the primary objectives and outputs of the project. Examples include:
- Completed software applications
- Marketing campaign materials
- Finalized real estate properties
Examples of Deliverables in Different Sectors
To better understand the concept of deliverables, here are examples from various industries:
Information Technology (IT)
- Software development projects deliver functional software applications, user documentation, and training programs.
- Network upgrade projects deliver improved network infrastructure, hardware installations, and updated configurations.
Construction
- Construction projects deliver completed buildings, infrastructure developments, blueprints, and compliance certificates.
Marketing
- Marketing projects deliver advertising campaigns, market research reports, brand guidelines, and promotional materials.
Special Considerations in Defining Deliverables
Defining deliverables involves several critical considerations:
Measurability
Deliverables must have clear, measurable criteria. They should comply with specific standards to ensure quality and completeness. For example, a deliverable for a software project might be that the application must pass all specified test cases before it is considered complete.
Ownership and Responsibility
Each deliverable should have a designated owner responsible for its creation, quality, and delivery. This individual or team ensures that the deliverable meets all required standards and deadlines.
Documentation
A clear documentation process should accompany each deliverable. This includes detailing the deliverable’s specifications, the criteria for its acceptance, and the process for its creation.
Historical Context of Deliverables
The concept of deliverables has evolved from the manufacturing sector’s focus on tangible outputs to encompass all types of projects, including software development and services. The emphasis on clear, quantifiable outcomes has become a staple in modern project management practices, driven by methodologies like Waterfall, Agile, and Lean.
How Deliverables Impact Project Success
Clear, well-defined deliverables are essential for project success. They provide a clear roadmap for project activities, set expectations for stakeholders, and serve as benchmarks for measuring progress.
Related Terms
- Milestones: Milestones mark significant points within the project timeline, indicating progress towards the final deliverables.
- Scope: The scope details everything that will be included in the project, including all deliverables and work required to complete them.
FAQs
What is the difference between a deliverable and a milestone?
Can deliverables change during a project?
How are deliverables documented in a project?
References
- Project Management Institute (PMI). “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide).”
- Agile Alliance. “The Agile Practice Guide.”
- Kerzner, Harold. “Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling.”
Summary
Deliverables in project management are fundamental to achieving project objectives. Whether internal or external, they must be clearly defined, measurable, and documented to ensure project success. Understanding the different types of deliverables, their importance, and their impact on a project, as well as how to manage them effectively, is crucial for any project manager or team member.
