How can you ensure contract deliverables are met?

1 Clarify expectations

One of the first steps to ensure contract deliverables are met is to clarify the expectations of both parties before signing the contract. This means having a clear and detailed description of the deliverables, their scope, their specifications, their acceptance criteria, and their payment terms. You should also discuss how the deliverables will be verified, measured, and reported, and what are the roles and responsibilities of each party. By clarifying expectations upfront, you can avoid misunderstandings, ambiguities, and conflicts later on.

2 Communicate regularly

Another key strategy to ensure contract deliverables are met is to communicate regularly with the contractor and the client throughout the contract lifecycle. Communication can help you monitor the progress and status of the deliverables, identify and resolve any issues or challenges, provide feedback and guidance, and adjust to any changes or contingencies. You should establish a communication plan that specifies the frequency, mode, format, and content of the communication, as well as the stakeholders involved. You should also document and record the communication for future reference and evidence.

3 Track and measure performance

A third strategy to ensure contract deliverables are met is to track and measure the performance of the contractor and the deliverables against the agreed criteria and standards. This can help you evaluate the quality and timeliness of the deliverables, identify any gaps or deviations, and take corrective actions if needed. You should use appropriate tools and methods to track and measure performance, such as key performance indicators, milestones, reports, audits, inspections, or surveys. You should also provide feedback and recognition to the contractor for their performance and achievements.

4 Manage changes and risks

A fourth strategy to ensure contract deliverables are met is to manage any changes and risks that may affect the delivery of the contract. Changes can be requested by either party for various reasons, such as changes in scope, specifications, requirements, or deadlines. Risks can be internal or external factors that may pose a threat or an opportunity for the contract. You should have a change management process that defines how changes will be requested, approved, implemented, and documented. You should also have a risk management process that identifies, assesses, mitigates, and monitors risks.

5 Ensure compliance and closure

A fifth strategy to ensure contract deliverables are met is to ensure compliance and closure of the contract. Compliance means that both parties have fulfilled their obligations and responsibilities under the contract, such as delivering the deliverables, paying the invoices, complying with the laws and regulations, and adhering to the terms and conditions. Closure means that both parties have formally accepted the completion of the contract, resolved any outstanding issues or disputes, and released any resources or assets. You should have a compliance and closure checklist that covers all the aspects and documents of the contract.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?