In a construction project, deliverables are the tangible or intangible outputs that are required to be produced, submitted, or completed as part of the project’s scope. These deliverables are agreed upon in the contract between the contractor and the client and serve as key milestones or markers of progress in the project. They represent the expected results of project activities and are essential for assessing the successful completion of the project.
Deliverables in construction projects can vary significantly depending on the nature and complexity of the project, but they generally fall into two main categories: tangible deliverables and intangible deliverables. Below, we’ll dive into each category and the types of deliverables associated with them.
1. Tangible Deliverables:
These are physical outputs that can be directly observed or measured, often in the form of constructed elements or physical infrastructure.
a. Completed Structures or Components
- These are the physical assets or parts of a project that must be handed over to the client at the completion of the project or at certain milestones.
- Examples:
- A completed building (office, residential, commercial)
- A finished road, bridge, or other civil infrastructure
- Installed mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in a building
- Landscaping and external site works
- Fit-out elements like flooring, ceilings, and partitioning
b. Equipment and Materials
- In some construction projects, certain equipment or materials may be specified as deliverables.
- Examples:
- Installation of specific mechanical systems, such as HVAC units or generators
- Delivery of construction materials like steel beams, concrete, or prefabricated panels to the construction site
c. Temporary Works
- Temporary structures or support systems created to assist in the construction of the permanent works. These may include scaffolding, formwork, or temporary access roads.
- Examples:
- Erection and dismantling of temporary scaffolding
- Installation of temporary power supplies or site offices
d. Commissioned Systems
- After installing various systems in a construction project, the systems need to be tested, commissioned, and handed over in operational condition.
- Examples:
- Commissioned electrical systems (lighting, power distribution)
- Operational HVAC systems
- Functional security and fire protection systems
e. Handed-Over Space or Facility
- This includes the final, completed project or a portion of the project handed over to the client for use.
- Examples:
- A section of a hospital or commercial building ready for occupation
- A phase of a residential development handed over for tenant occupancy
2. Intangible Deliverables:
These are non-physical outputs but are equally essential to the project’s success. They often involve documentation, certifications, or compliance processes necessary to ensure that the construction meets legal, safety, and client-specific standards.
a. Design Documents
- This includes all blueprints, architectural plans, and engineering drawings that outline the scope, details, and specifications of the project.
- Examples:
- Final architectural drawings and layouts
- Structural engineering designs and calculations
- Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) system designs
- Shop drawings for specific project elements
b. Project Plans and Schedules
- These are detailed timelines and work breakdown structures (WBS) that outline the sequence and timing of the construction activities.
- Examples:
- Project schedule (e.g., Gantt chart)
- Critical path method (CPM) schedules showing activity sequences and dependencies
- Resource allocation plans
c. Inspection Reports and Certifications
- These deliverables ensure that the construction complies with regulatory standards and building codes. They often involve inspections from third-party authorities or project engineers.
- Examples:
- Health and safety compliance certifications
- Structural integrity inspection reports
- Certifications for electrical and fire safety systems
- Environmental compliance certificates
d. Contract Documentation
- These are documents related to the contract between the contractor and the client, including performance guarantees, insurances, and compliance documents.
- Examples:
- Signed contracts and agreements
- Performance bonds or guarantees
- Insurance documents covering the construction process
e. Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals
- O&M manuals detail how to operate and maintain the various systems installed during the project. These manuals are essential for the client to ensure that the building or infrastructure operates effectively after handover.
- Examples:
- HVAC system maintenance manuals
- Instructions for operating electrical systems, fire alarms, or elevators
- Warranty documentation for installed equipment
f. As-Built Drawings
- These are revised versions of the original design drawings that show the final specifications of the project as it was actually constructed, including any changes made during construction.
- Examples:
- As-built architectural, structural, and MEP drawings reflecting the final built conditions
- Drawings that detail any deviations from the original plans due to site conditions or changes in materials
g. Handover Documentation
- These are the documents provided to the client at project completion that certify the final handover and formal transfer of responsibility.
- Examples:
- Final project completion certificate
- Snagging lists (punch lists) of remaining minor defects
- Final project budget and financial statements
h. Project Closeout Reports
- These reports summarize the project’s performance, including financial aspects, resource utilization, and lessons learned.
- Examples:
- Project completion reports with analysis of cost vs. budget
- Lessons learned documents outlining challenges and successes during the project
- Resource utilization and productivity reports
i. Training Programs
- In some cases, especially with complex or highly technical buildings, the contractor may be required to provide training to the client’s personnel on how to operate and maintain the building’s systems.
- Examples:
- On-site training for facility managers on HVAC system operations
- Safety training for building occupants or operators
j. Procurement Documentation
- In many construction projects, procurement involves sourcing materials, equipment, and services. Deliverables in this category include records and documentation of purchases made for the project.
- Examples:
- Purchase orders for key materials
- Supplier contracts and delivery records
Conclusion
In a construction project, deliverables represent all the components and documentation that must be provided to meet the contractual requirements and ensure the successful completion of the project. They serve as key milestones and can range from large, complex physical outputs like completed buildings or infrastructures to essential non-physical elements like as-built drawings, inspection reports, and operation manuals.
Ensuring that all deliverables—both tangible and intangible—are completed and delivered on time is crucial for the smooth execution of the project and for client satisfaction. A construction project is only considered fully complete once all deliverables are met according to the agreed-upon terms and quality standards.
