Glossary Item
Term : Output
Definition : A direct result from the work of a process that takes the form of a new artifact—or a change to an existing artifact.
Discussion : Outputs are always tangible artifacts (“things”). They are of two kinds:
  • Deliverables.
  • Alterants.
This classification is not a dichotomy. Given a large enough number of changes, an alterant becomes indistinguishable from a deliverable. The distinction is used to highlight a common confusion between outputs and outcomes.
Examples & Illustrations : Primary outputs from Project BuyRite will include:
  • new procurement processes
  • a new organisational model (for the Procurement/purchasing department)
  • new vendor contracts
  • new application systems (IS)
  • new technical infrastructure (IT).