6.1 Monitoring Deliverables — True Progress in Project Management

6.1 Monitoring Deliverables

When measuring project progress, are you only checking whether tasks are marked as “done”?
That alone is not enough. The true indicator of progress is whether the deliverables are completed in a way that fulfills their intended purpose.

This section shifts focus from “task-based progress” to “deliverable-based progress” and explains how to manage projects more effectively through this mindset.

Clarify the Definition of Done

One of the most common pitfalls in project management is the illusion of completion.
To avoid this, clearly define what “done” means for each task and deliverable.

Helpful criteria may include:

• The deliverable meets the specifications
• It has passed review or testing
• It has been shared with and approved by stakeholders
• All related documentation has been updated

When the “definition of done” is clear, it prevents misunderstandings between team members and helps ensure consistent quality.

Visualize Task Status in Detail

To understand “where things stand,” you need visible status tracking. Consider these task states:

• To Do
• In Progress
• Waiting Review
• Done

Especially by distinguishing between “Waiting Review” and “Done”, your team can avoid mistaking work-in-progress for completion.

Practical Monitoring with ActionBridge

ActionBridge is designed to support deliverable-focused task management in a natural and intuitive way.

• Board view shows task status at a glance
• Status can be updated easily via drag & drop
• Tasks can be assigned due dates, assignees, priorities, and deliverable links
• Gantt chart integration helps visualize the bigger picture

This enables project management that focuses not just on activity, but on results that fulfill objectives.

Foster a Deliverable-Oriented Culture

What truly strengthens a project isn’t just tools—it’s culture.
Go beyond completing tasks, and instill a mindset that values the quality and impact of deliverables across your team.

Try the following practices:

• Always pair each task with a clear “definition of done”
• In reviews, focus on whether the deliverable meets requirements and satisfies end-users
• In regular meetings, check progress in terms of deliverables—not just task checkboxes

By fostering this culture, your team can shift from “apparent progress” to real forward movement.

Summary: Progress Is Measured by Deliverables, Not Just Tasks

It’s not enough to say, “This is done.” True progress means something is completed, reviewed, approved, and usable for its intended purpose.

By using tools like ActionBridge and promoting a deliverables-first mindset, you can raise both the quality and speed of your entire project.

→ Next, let’s dive into how to handle change and issues in projects: 6.2 Issue and Change Management