What does the term 'deliverable' refer to in project management?

In project management, the term 'deliverable' specifically refers to a submitted work product for approval. Deliverables are tangible or intangible outputs that are produced during the course of a project and are typically intended to be delivered to a client or stakeholder. They represent specific results that are defined in the project’s scope and are usually identified at the beginning of a project planning phase.

For example, a deliverable could be a report, a piece of software, a physical product, or anything that is required to meet the objectives of the project. Deliverables are often used as benchmarks for progress and are essential for assessing project completion and success.

The other options do not encompass the definition of a deliverable in the same way. A completed contract refers to a legal document outlining the obligations of all parties involved, while a cost analysis report is a specific type of documentation that provides financial insights but does not fit the broader definition of a deliverable. A project timeline is a planning tool that outlines when tasks should be completed but is not itself a work product delivered for approval.