Accept deliverables

Learn how to accept a deliverable to acknowledge that the service has been delivered or the product supplied.

What is accepting a deliverable?

Accepting a deliverable acknowledges that:

  • the service has been delivered
  • the product supplied conforms with the contract

Some contracts allow for partial acceptance when:

  • part of the deliverable is acceptable, but the entirety is not
  • delivery is in stages, and performance of later stages are dependent on earlier stages

Typical acceptance methods are set out in the following table:

DeliverableAcceptance testPurpose of tests

Consumer goods

Off-the-shelf items

Visual inspectionDelivery includes the correct number of the correct items
Specially manufactured goodsRange of tests set out in the contract

Specific functions and features are included

Performance standards are met

Information communication and technology

Range of tests set out in the contract

Schedule of acceptance tests

Specific functions and features are included

Performance standards are met

Buildings and works

Range of inspections and tests set out in the contract

Certification by regulators, such as building surveyors

Specific functions and features are included

Mandatory standards have been met

Standard of work is of the same standard as expected by a similar competent service provider

Consultancy reportsScope of the study and tasks to be undertaken, as set out in the contract

Items to investigated have been delivered

Deliverable meets professional standard, as expected by a similar competent service provider

How to accept deliverables

Step 1: Conduct acceptance testing

Conduct acceptance testing as set out in the contract.

Step 2: Determine outcome of acceptance testing

Did the deliverables pass acceptance testing?

  • If yes, go to Step 4.
  • If no, go to Step 3.

Step 3: Resolve shortcomings

Consult with the service provider to resolve the shortcomings.

Is the service provider able to resolve the shortcoming?

  • If yes, direct the service provider to resolve the shortcoming, and go to Step 1.
  • If no, go to Resolve disputes.

Step 4: Accept deliverables

Accept the deliverables. Complete any acceptance paperwork.

Record acceptance of deliverables.

If the deliverables are goods, arrange delivery to the user.

Step 5: Asset management

Record the deliverables as assets following local Agency processes, if needed.

Deliverables that may require recording as an asset include:

  • buildings and works
  • information communication technology systems
  • deliverables that include intellectual property
  • deliverables that include data

Step 6: Comply with special policies

Special policies apply to certain deliverables. Apply the following policies when they apply:

  • DataVic access policy– requires that certain datasets be made available on DataVic
  • Protective Data Security Standards – applies to data held, used, managed, disclosed or transferred by the service provider
  • Geoscience data – ownership and custody of geoscience data is transferred to the State
  • Procurement-related policies - see, Monitor commitments under procurement-related policies

Consider:

Manage probity and conflicts of interest

Manage probity – consider issues raised at Probity issues by stage and task.

Conflicts of interest can arise during this task. Identify, declare and manage these.

Address Agency rules

Consult Agency procurement team for advice on meeting:

Follow Agency specific rules on when to seek an approval and who can give the approval.

Follow Agency specific rules for recording decisions and storing records.

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