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Project Man - Objectives, Deliverables, Benefits - is there a difference?

Sskyxxx14y ago
Really confused!!!

I’ve seen these terms used almost interchangeably, is there a difference between them?

I was coming to the idea there wasn’t, then I remembered that Benefits can be assessed using Observable, Measurable, etc while Objectives are set using SMART.

I thought that objectives lead to benefits? e.g. An objective (SMART) would be to introduce an accounts package, and a benefit (OMQF) would be better management information (M), and staff morale perhaps (O)?

This seems to make sense when you have a post implementation review – did the accounts package work? then a benefits realisation review – are staff happier? However reviewing Kaplan, they have a benefits dependency framework that suggests it’s the other way round… benefits lead to objectives?

And so what the heck is a deliverable?

This maybe obvious but I can’t see the wood for the trees anymore.

Thanks!
kengarrettkengarrettTutor14y ago#1
A deliverable is something achieved by a project. Essentially, the same as an objective, though might be in a bit more detail.

I think that objectives lead to benefits, just as deliverables lead to benefits. For example, if the project delivers a better way of tracking shipments through using GPS technology, the benefit will be seen in greater customer satisfaction and greater sales.

To some extent these terms deliverable/objective/benefit are used interchangeably or differently by different people. I don't think you should worry about it too much. Learn one story and stick with it!

HTH
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