The core difference lies in scope and purpose: an output is a direct result of project activities, while a deliverable is typically a more comprehensive, client-facing product or service built from outputs.
Based on the reference, an output is a product that results from the implementation of project activities. It is the immediate result of completing a specific task or process within the project.
Conversely, the reference states that a deliverable has to be sufficiently comprehensive and that it is recommended to limit the number of project deliverables. This suggests that a deliverable is a significant, tangible or intangible outcome that is formally delivered to a stakeholder, client, or internal team. Deliverables are often built upon one or more outputs.
Understanding Outputs in Project Management
Outputs are the granular results produced by project work. They are the 'things' created as you execute tasks.
- Definition: A product or result directly generated by completing project activities.
- Nature: Often numerous, can be intermediate or final.
- Example Outputs:
- A completed code module
- A raw survey data file
- A draft document section
- Minutes from a meeting
- A design mockup (before final approval)
Understanding Deliverables in Project Management
Deliverables are the finished products, services, or results that are formally presented to stakeholders and expected to meet specific requirements.
- Definition: A significant, comprehensive outcome delivered to a stakeholder.
- Nature: Fewer in number than outputs, represent completed phases or the final project outcome.
- Reference Insight: They must be "sufficiently comprehensive" and their number should be limited.
- Example Deliverables:
- A fully functional software application (built from multiple code modules, designs, documentation outputs)
- A final research report (compiled from data analysis, literature review, drafting outputs)
- A completed construction phase
- A final training program package
Key Distinctions Summarized
Here's a table highlighting the primary differences:
| Feature | Output | Deliverable |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Product resulting from project activities | Sufficiently comprehensive outcome for stakeholders |
| Scope | Granular, task-level results | Broader, often built from multiple outputs |
| Quantity | Numerous | Fewer (recommended to limit) |
| Purpose | Immediate result of work | Formal handover to stakeholders/client |
| Formality | Can be informal or internal | Generally formal, requires acceptance |
The Relationship Between Outputs and Deliverables
Think of outputs as building blocks. You complete activities that produce these blocks (outputs). You then assemble and refine these blocks to create the final structure or package, which is the deliverable. A single deliverable often consolidates many underlying outputs.
For instance, developing a new website involves many outputs: individual page designs, lines of code, database tables, content drafts, testing reports, etc. The deliverable is the finished, live website itself, which integrates all these outputs into a single comprehensive product for the client.
Understanding this distinction helps in planning, tracking, and managing stakeholder expectations throughout a project lifecycle. Focusing on outputs helps manage the daily tasks, while focusing on deliverables ensures the project stays on track to meet the overall goals and stakeholder needs.
