Question 1

How specific should deliverables be in a contract?

Accepted Answer

As specific as possible without being absurd. Include quantities, dimensions, file formats, quality standards, and acceptance criteria. 'Website' is too vague. '10-page Next.js website with responsive design, SEO meta tags, and PageSpeed score above 90' is right. If you can argue about whether a deliverable was met, it's not specific enough.

Question 2

What happens if deliverables aren't defined in the contract?

Accepted Answer

You're setting yourself up for a dispute. Without defined deliverables, the client can argue they expected more, and you can argue you delivered what was asked. Courts will look at industry standards and the parties' communications to fill in the gaps — but that's expensive and unpredictable. Define deliverables upfront.

Question 3

Who decides if a deliverable is acceptable?

Accepted Answer

Whatever the contract says. Many contracts include acceptance criteria — specific standards the deliverable must meet. Some give the client sole discretion to accept or reject, which is risky for the provider. Push for objective acceptance criteria (passes QA testing, meets design specs) over subjective ones ('client is satisfied').

Question 4

What's the difference between deliverables and milestones?

Accepted Answer

Deliverables are what you produce. Milestones are when you produce them. A deliverable is 'completed mobile app.' A milestone is 'mobile app delivered by June 1, triggering a $10,000 payment.' Milestones tie deliverables to dates and often to payments. You need both in a well-structured contract.

Question 5

Can deliverables change during a project?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through a formal change order process. The original contract should include a change order clause that explains how new deliverables are added, how they affect the timeline and budget, and who needs to approve the changes. Without this process, changed deliverables are just scope creep.

Deliverables

Definition

In Practice

Common in these contract types

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Frequently asked questions about deliverables

Create a contract with proper deliverables clauses