A Deliverable is a unique and verifiable product, result, or capability that must be produced to complete a process, phase, or project. Deliverables can be tangible or intangible and are essential for measuring project progress and success.
Key Aspects of a Deliverable
- Verifiable & Measurable – Must meet defined acceptance criteria.
- Can Be Internal or External – May be used within the team or delivered to a customer.
- Exists at Different Levels – Found at project, phase, or task levels.
- Aligned with Project Objectives – Supports overall business or stakeholder goals.
Types of Deliverables
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Product Deliverables | A physical or digital product created during the project. | A mobile app, website, or hardware component. |
| Process Deliverables | Documents or outputs that support project execution. | A project plan, risk register, or test report. |
| Service Deliverables | A completed service or capability provided. | A software deployment, consulting service, or training session. |
Example Scenarios
Software Development
A completed mobile application with all required features is a key deliverable.
Construction Project
The completion of a residential building as per the architectural blueprint is a deliverable.
Marketing Campaign
A finalized social media strategy document before a product launch is a deliverable.
Why Deliverables Matter
- Provide Clear Milestones – Help track project progress and completion.
- Ensure Quality & Compliance – Must meet defined standards before approval.
- Facilitate Stakeholder Alignment – Ensure all parties agree on expected outcomes.
- Support Project Closure – Mark the successful completion of project objectives.
See also: Acceptance Criteria, Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), Project Scope, Quality Assurance.