Best Practices for Submitting Deliverables to Clients
Submitting deliverables to your clients is a critical part of any project, whether you’re self-employed or working within a large corporation. Not only should you ensure that the client is satisfied with the work you’ve produced, but you also want to ensure that the delivery process goes as smoothly and professionally as possible.
According to a study conducted by the Project Management Institute (PMI), an average 11.4 percent of investment is wasted due to poor project performance. And organizations that undervalue project management as a strategic competency for driving change report an average of 67 percent more of their projects failing outright.
In this article, we’ll explore some best practices for submitting deliverables to your clients, from formatting and organization to clear communication and follow-up. By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a positive impression with your clients and increase the likelihood of future work opportunities alongside them.
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What is a Project Deliverable?
A project deliverable is an item produced as a result of completing a project or a specific phase of a project. It is a measurable output that can be used to assess the progress and success of the work.
Examples of project deliverables include reports, software applications, prototypes, marketing campaigns, or any other outcome that is produced by the project. Deliverables are usually specified in the project plan at the beginning of your professional relationship, and their completion is often used to determine if the project has been successfully completed.
It is crucial to meet the project deliverables on time and as outlined in the project plan. This can improve client satisfaction, which can, in turn, increase referrals and client satisfaction rates.
The Two Types of Project Deliverables
Internal Deliverables
Internal deliverables aim to benefit the company and the project’s stakeholders, as opposed to benefitting clients. Internal deliverables focus on the internal workings of a project, for example, training courses or budget increases.
External Deliverables
External deliverables are in the interest of the client or customer. This can include an upgrade to the product or service or a new marketing campaign.
How to Submit Deliverables to Clients
When submitting deliverables to clients, it is essential to ensure that the process is smooth and professional. Here are some best practices to follow:
✅ Clarify Expectations
Before starting a project, clearly define expectations, deadlines, and any other important details. This will help you to avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications down the line.
✅ Deliver on Time
Be sure to deliver the work on the agreed date and time set out in your first client meeting and subsequent proposal. If you anticipate any delays along the way, communicate them clearly with the project’s stakeholders so that they can make necessary arrangements on their side and agree on a new date and time for delivery.
✅ Ensure Good Quality
Before you submit the deliverables, review them to ensure they are of the highest quality and have no faults.
✅ Provide Clear Documentation
Include any necessary documentation or instructions at the same time as the deliverables, such as a user manual, a certificate, or an installation guide. If the deliverable requires any passcodes or identification to access, be sure to provide that as well.
✅ Use a Professional Format
Present the deliverables in a professional format, such as a . PDF or other widely used file types, and ensure they are easy to navigate and require no additional software. If the deliverable requires any additional software to open, include that when submitting the project.
Communicate Clearly
According to this report, 30% of people have had a poor customer experience because of poor communication with a business. When submitting the deliverables, be sure to clearly communicate the details of the deliverable, instructions on how to use or access it, and any additional information the recipient may require.
Follow Up
Follow up with the client after a short period to ensure they have received and reviewed the deliverables. This will help you to address any potential issues or questions as quickly as possible. You can also use this opportunity to ask for feedback from your clients.
Project management software, such as those listed in our resource library, can also help you to track and submit deliverables to your clients.
By following these best practices, you can ensure that the deliverables are submitted smoothly and professionally, which can help to build trust and strengthen your relationship with your client.
Conclusion
Submitting project deliverables to your clients is essential to completing any project successfully. By following the best practices outlined above, you can ensure that the submission process is smooth, professional, and meets the client’s expectations. These steps will help you build a positive relationship with the client and increase the possibility of future work opportunities and referrals.
Remember, successful project delivery is not just about completing the project’s work but also about how it is presented and delivered to the client. By following these best practices, you can deliver your project deliverables effectively and professionally, setting yourself apart from your competitors.
