Acceptance criteria clause: Copy, customize and use instantly
Introduction
An acceptance criteria clause sets clear standards or conditions that deliverables must meet before being formally accepted by the receiving party. It ensures both parties align on expectations and provides a mechanism for feedback and revisions. This clause is essential for minimizing disputes in agreements involving goods, services, or project deliverables.
Below are acceptance criteria clause templates tailored to various scenarios. Copy the one you need, customize it, and add it to your contract.
Standard acceptance criteria clause
This clause sets general standards for acceptance.
Deliverables under this agreement will be deemed accepted once [Party B] confirms in writing that they meet the specifications outlined in [insert section/reference]. If [Party B] identifies any deficiencies, [Party A] must address them within [insert time frame].
Conditional acceptance clause
This clause allows for temporary acceptance with conditions.
Deliverables may be conditionally accepted if they substantially meet the agreed specifications but require minor corrections. [Party A] agrees to complete all corrections within [insert time frame], after which final acceptance will be granted.
Time-bound acceptance clause
This clause includes a timeframe for the acceptance process.
[Party B] will review deliverables within [insert time frame] of receipt. If [Party B] does not notify [Party A] of any deficiencies within this period, the deliverables will be deemed accepted.
Specific testing requirements clause
This clause includes testing as part of acceptance.
Deliverables will only be accepted after successful completion of the testing procedures specified in [insert section]. Any deficiencies identified during testing must be resolved by [Party A] within [insert time frame] before final acceptance.
Feedback and revision clause
This clause provides a process for feedback and revisions.
[Party B] will review deliverables and provide written feedback to [Party A] within [insert time frame]. [Party A] will make necessary revisions and resubmit the deliverables for final review and acceptance.
Objective criteria clause
This clause requires objective, measurable standards for acceptance.
Deliverables must meet the objective criteria specified in [insert section/reference]. Acceptance will only occur once [Party B] confirms in writing that all criteria have been met.
Performance-based acceptance clause
This clause ties acceptance to performance metrics.
Deliverables will be accepted if they meet the performance metrics outlined in [insert section]. [Party A] agrees to resolve any performance deficiencies within [insert time frame] as a condition for acceptance.
Milestone-based acceptance clause
This clause applies to projects with milestones.
Each milestone deliverable under this agreement will be reviewed and accepted individually based on the criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance of one milestone does not imply acceptance of subsequent milestones.
Partial acceptance clause
This clause allows for partial acceptance of deliverables.
[Party B] may partially accept deliverables that meet the agreed specifications while requiring revisions for other components. Final acceptance will occur only when all components meet the specified criteria.
Independent review clause
This clause involves a third party in the acceptance process.
Deliverables will be reviewed and certified by an independent third party to confirm compliance with the specifications outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will only occur upon receipt of the third party’s certification.
Cost of non-compliance clause
This clause ties non-acceptance to financial responsibility.
If deliverables fail to meet the agreed acceptance criteria, [Party A] will bear all costs associated with corrections and re-submission. Deliverables will not be accepted until all deficiencies are resolved.
Iterative acceptance clause
This clause allows for an iterative review process.
Deliverables will undergo iterative reviews, with [Party B] providing feedback at each stage. [Party A] will address feedback and resubmit deliverables until they meet the agreed acceptance criteria.
Comprehensive acceptance clause
This clause incorporates thorough checks across multiple criteria.
Deliverables must meet all specifications and standards outlined in [insert section/reference], including but not limited to functionality, quality, and compliance with applicable laws. [Party B] reserves the right to conduct a detailed review within [insert time frame] and provide feedback for corrections before acceptance.
Provisional acceptance clause
This clause allows for acceptance pending future validation.
Deliverables may be provisionally accepted if they meet substantial completion criteria. Final acceptance will be granted after additional validation or testing to confirm compliance with the agreed specifications, to be completed within [insert time frame].
Conditional performance testing clause
This clause ties acceptance to successful performance trials.
Acceptance of deliverables is contingent upon successful completion of performance trials as defined in [insert section]. Any failures during testing must be remedied by [Party A] within [insert time frame] for acceptance to occur.
Third-party certification clause
This clause requires validation by a third party for acceptance.
Deliverables must be certified by a mutually agreed third party as compliant with the specifications in [insert section]. Acceptance will only occur upon receipt of this certification.
Acceptance criteria refinement clause
This clause allows for dynamic refinement of acceptance standards.
Acceptance criteria may be adjusted through mutual agreement during the project execution phase. Deliverables must meet the most recent version of the agreed criteria for acceptance.
Documented evidence clause
This clause emphasizes documentation for acceptance.
[Party A] must provide documented evidence demonstrating that the deliverables meet all specifications outlined in [insert section]. [Party B] will review the evidence and confirm acceptance in writing within [insert time frame].
Escalated approval clause
This clause introduces additional levels of review for critical deliverables.
For deliverables classified as critical under this agreement, acceptance requires written approval from [insert title or department] in addition to the standard review process. Any issues must be escalated and resolved prior to final acceptance.
Return and resubmit clause
This clause requires re-submission if initial deliverables are rejected.
If deliverables are rejected for failure to meet the acceptance criteria, [Party A] must address all deficiencies and resubmit for review within [insert time frame]. [Party B] will evaluate the resubmitted deliverables for compliance before granting acceptance.
Industry standard compliance clause
This clause ties acceptance to recognized industry benchmarks.
Deliverables must adhere to industry standards and best practices as specified in [insert section]. Acceptance will occur once [Party B] verifies compliance with these benchmarks in addition to the agreed criteria.
Final approval authority clause
This clause designates who holds the authority to approve deliverables.
Acceptance of deliverables is contingent upon final written approval from [insert title or department]. All deliverables must meet the criteria outlined in [insert section/reference] before approval is granted.
Multi-phase acceptance clause
This clause applies to phased projects with distinct criteria for each phase.
Each project phase will have specific acceptance criteria as detailed in [insert section]. Deliverables for a phase must be accepted before proceeding to the next phase, ensuring alignment with overall project goals.
Deficiency penalty clause
This clause introduces penalties for non-compliance with acceptance criteria.
If deliverables fail to meet the acceptance criteria within the agreed time frame, [Party A] will incur a penalty of [insert amount or percentage] per day until compliance is achieved and acceptance is granted.
Strict compliance acceptance clause
This clause demands adherence to the agreed specifications without deviation.
Deliverables must fully comply with the agreed specifications and standards outlined in [insert section/reference]. Any deviation will result in automatic rejection until all requirements are met, with no exceptions.
Time-limited acceptance clause
This clause enforces a deadline for acceptance.
[Party B] will review deliverables within [insert time frame] from submission. Failure to provide written acceptance or rejection within this period will result in automatic acceptance of the deliverables as submitted.
Conditional payment clause
This clause ties acceptance to the release of payments.
Deliverables will not be considered accepted until all criteria specified in [insert section] are met. Payments tied to the deliverables will only be released upon formal acceptance by [Party B].
Modular acceptance clause
This clause allows partial acceptance of a project with modular deliverables.
Acceptance will be granted on a modular basis, with each module evaluated against its specific acceptance criteria as outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance of one module does not imply acceptance of others.
Pre-delivery inspection clause
This clause requires pre-delivery validation before final acceptance.
Deliverables must undergo pre-delivery inspection and testing by [Party B]. Only after the successful completion of these procedures will the deliverables be eligible for formal acceptance.
Corrective period clause
This clause provides a fixed timeline to address deficiencies.
If deliverables fail to meet the acceptance criteria, [Party A] will be provided a corrective period of [insert time frame] to resolve all deficiencies. Final acceptance will depend on successful rectification and compliance.
Milestone-based acceptance clause
This clause integrates acceptance criteria into project milestones.
Acceptance will occur at predefined milestones as specified in [insert section]. Each milestone deliverable must meet its individual acceptance criteria before the project can proceed to the next phase.
Quality assurance sign-off clause
This clause requires internal quality checks before acceptance.
All deliverables must pass [Party A]’s internal quality assurance process and meet the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Written confirmation of compliance will be provided prior to submission for acceptance.
Independent review clause
This clause mandates third-party review as part of the acceptance process.
Deliverables must be reviewed and validated by an independent expert or auditor, mutually agreed upon by the parties. Acceptance will be contingent upon the expert’s confirmation of compliance with the specified criteria.
Iterative acceptance clause
This clause supports an iterative review process.
Deliverables will be reviewed iteratively, with [Party B] providing feedback and [Party A] making revisions as necessary. Final acceptance will be granted only after the agreed criteria have been fully satisfied through this iterative process.
Customer satisfaction clause
This clause prioritizes end-user satisfaction for acceptance.
Deliverables must achieve customer satisfaction, as determined by a user feedback survey or review process agreed upon by both parties. Acceptance will only occur if satisfaction scores meet or exceed [insert threshold].
Regulatory compliance clause
This clause links acceptance to compliance with regulatory requirements.
Deliverables must comply with all applicable regulatory standards and requirements as outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be granted upon confirmation of compliance by [Party B] or an authorized regulatory body.
Comprehensive testing clause
This clause requires thorough testing before acceptance.
Deliverables will be subject to comprehensive testing by [Party B] to ensure compliance with the acceptance criteria specified in [insert section]. Final acceptance will only be granted upon successful completion of all tests.
Contingent approval clause
This clause makes acceptance dependent on additional conditions.
Deliverables must meet the acceptance criteria in [insert section] and fulfill the contingent conditions outlined in [insert reference]. Approval will not be granted until all conditions are satisfied.
Prototype validation clause
This clause mandates prototype approval prior to full-scale production.
Acceptance of deliverables will be based on the approval of a prototype meeting the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Full production may only proceed upon written confirmation from [Party B].
Joint inspection clause
This clause requires both parties to participate in the review process.
Deliverables will be inspected jointly by representatives of [Party A] and [Party B] to ensure compliance with the agreed acceptance criteria. Acceptance will be documented and signed off by both parties.
On-site testing clause
This clause requires deliverables to be tested at a specific location.
Deliverables must be tested on-site at [insert location] to verify compliance with the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be granted only if on-site testing is successful.
Progressive acceptance clause
This clause allows acceptance in stages based on deliverable readiness.
Deliverables will be reviewed and accepted progressively, with each phase requiring adherence to its specific acceptance criteria as outlined in [insert section]. Final acceptance will depend on successful completion of all phases.
Final review panel clause
This clause establishes a review panel for the final decision.
Deliverables must undergo a final review by a panel comprised of representatives from both parties. Acceptance will only occur upon unanimous approval by the panel members.
Risk assessment clause
This clause requires a risk evaluation prior to acceptance.
Deliverables will not be accepted until a risk assessment is conducted by [Party B] or an agreed third party to ensure compliance with the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section].
Industry standards clause
This clause ties acceptance to meeting recognized industry standards.
Deliverables must meet the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section] and comply with [insert specific industry standard]. Acceptance will be contingent upon verification of compliance with these standards.
Technical documentation clause
This clause requires supporting documentation as part of the acceptance process.
Deliverables must be accompanied by complete technical documentation, including user guides and specifications, as outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be granted only after all documentation is reviewed and approved.
Performance metrics clause
This clause uses specific metrics to determine acceptance.
Deliverables must meet the performance metrics specified in [insert section], including [insert examples such as speed, reliability, or capacity]. Acceptance will depend on achieving these metrics under test conditions.
Expert verification clause
This clause mandates evaluation by an expert in the relevant field.
Deliverables must be reviewed and approved by an expert with qualifications agreed upon by both parties. Acceptance will be granted only upon the expert’s written confirmation of compliance.
Iterative improvement clause
This clause allows for multiple revisions until criteria are met.
Deliverables must undergo iterative review and improvement to meet the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will only be granted after all iterations are approved by [Party B].
Regulatory compliance clause
This clause ties acceptance to adherence to legal or regulatory standards.
Deliverables must comply with all applicable regulatory standards and meet the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance is conditional upon submission of compliance certificates or documentation.
Operational trial clause
This clause requires a trial period for performance validation.
Deliverables will be subject to an operational trial period of [insert duration] to confirm compliance with the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be granted upon successful completion of the trial.
Visual inspection clause
This clause uses a simple visual review for acceptance.
Deliverables will be reviewed for quality and compliance through a visual inspection process based on the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be documented in writing upon approval.
Conditional timeline clause
This clause makes acceptance contingent on timely delivery.
Deliverables must be completed by [insert date] and meet the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Failure to meet the timeline will result in rejection or renegotiation of terms.
Early-stage acceptance clause
This clause provides for partial acceptance of early stages.
Deliverables may be partially accepted during early stages of development if they meet the interim acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Final acceptance will depend on the completion of all remaining criteria.
Client feedback clause
This clause involves the client in the acceptance process.
Deliverables will be presented to [Party B] for feedback. Acceptance will only be granted upon approval after implementing all reasonable feedback provided within [insert timeframe].
Milestone-based clause
This clause ties acceptance to project milestones.
Deliverables will be reviewed and accepted upon reaching specific milestones as outlined in [insert section]. Each milestone will have its own acceptance criteria that must be met prior to proceeding.
Compliance checklist clause
This clause requires completion of a checklist for acceptance.
Deliverables must satisfy the compliance checklist outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will only occur after [Party B] verifies and approves all checklist items.
Warranty-backed clause
This clause ties acceptance to a warranty period.
Deliverables will be accepted provisionally upon delivery and tested during a warranty period of [insert duration]. Final acceptance will be granted upon successful performance throughout the warranty period.
Multi-tier review clause
This clause establishes several layers of review for acceptance.
Deliverables must pass through a multi-tier review process, including [insert tiers such as technical review, operational testing, and client sign-off]. Acceptance will only occur upon approval at all tiers.
Sustainability compliance clause
This clause mandates environmental or ethical compliance.
Deliverables must adhere to the sustainability standards outlined in [insert section] and meet the acceptance criteria specified. Acceptance is contingent on submitting proof of compliance.
Client sign-off clause
This clause requires explicit client approval for acceptance.
Deliverables must be reviewed and signed off by [Party B] or their authorized representative, confirming compliance with the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section].
Peer review clause
This clause involves third-party peers in the acceptance process.
Deliverables must be evaluated by a peer review panel agreed upon by both parties. Acceptance will be granted upon receipt of a majority approval from the panel.
Conditional acceptance clause
This clause allows for conditional approval with required follow-ups.
Deliverables may receive conditional acceptance if they substantially meet the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Final acceptance is contingent upon resolution of outstanding issues within [insert timeframe].
Functional testing clause
This clause ties acceptance to specific performance tests.
Deliverables must pass all functional tests as outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will occur only upon successful demonstration of all required functionalities.
User feedback clause
This clause incorporates end-user feedback for acceptance.
Deliverables will undergo a user feedback process where [insert group] evaluates the deliverables against the acceptance criteria in [insert section]. Acceptance is contingent on addressing user-identified concerns.
Integration requirement clause
This clause mandates successful integration with existing systems.
Deliverables must be successfully integrated with [insert systems or processes] as outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will only occur after seamless operation is confirmed.
Financial impact clause
This clause ties acceptance to projected financial outcomes.
Deliverables must demonstrate the financial outcomes outlined in [insert section] within [insert timeframe]. Acceptance will be granted upon confirmation of these outcomes.
Resource efficiency clause
This clause emphasizes operational or resource efficiency for acceptance.
Deliverables must meet resource efficiency benchmarks specified in [insert section]. Acceptance is contingent on meeting these benchmarks during the evaluation period.
Security compliance clause
This clause focuses on cybersecurity or data protection standards.
Deliverables must adhere to the security protocols and standards outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be granted upon successful validation of compliance by [Party B] or an appointed third party.
Progressive acceptance clause
This clause allows for staged approvals as criteria are met.
Deliverables will be reviewed progressively against the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be granted incrementally as individual components meet the criteria.
Failure-based rejection clause
This clause specifies that failure to meet criteria results in rejection.
Deliverables that fail to meet the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section] will be rejected without further obligation on the part of [Party B].
Time-bound acceptance clause
This clause imposes strict timelines for the acceptance process.
Deliverables must be submitted for review within [insert timeframe] and must meet the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance or rejection will be communicated within [insert timeframe].
Expert verification clause
This clause requires review and approval by industry experts.
Deliverables must be reviewed by an independent expert panel to verify compliance with the acceptance criteria in [insert section]. Acceptance will only occur upon receiving positive recommendations from the panel.
Training and usability clause
This clause ties acceptance to user training and usability validation.
Deliverables will be reviewed for usability following a mandatory training session for [insert user group]. Acceptance is contingent upon confirmation of user readiness and operational ease.
Risk minimization clause
This clause ensures acceptance only when risks are minimized.
Deliverables must meet the risk mitigation requirements outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance is conditional upon successful demonstration of minimized operational or financial risks.
Environmental performance clause
This clause focuses on environmental impact as part of acceptance.
Deliverables must meet the environmental performance standards outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance is contingent upon providing documentation confirming adherence to these standards.
Contingent milestone clause
This clause ties acceptance to the completion of specified project milestones.
Deliverables will be accepted only upon the successful completion of milestones outlined in [insert section]. Each milestone will be reviewed independently against its specific acceptance criteria.
Third-party validation clause
This clause requires independent verification by an external party.
Deliverables must undergo third-party validation to ensure compliance with the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance is contingent upon receiving a compliance report from the designated validator.
Pilot test clause
This clause mandates a pilot test before final acceptance.
Deliverables must undergo a pilot test as outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be granted only after the successful completion of the pilot, with documented results demonstrating compliance with the criteria.
Customer satisfaction clause
This clause links acceptance to subjective satisfaction metrics.
Deliverables must achieve a minimum satisfaction score of [insert metric] from [Party B] based on the criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be contingent upon meeting or exceeding this threshold.
Sequential evaluation clause
This clause specifies a step-by-step evaluation process.
Deliverables will be subject to a sequential evaluation process as detailed in [insert section]. Acceptance will only occur after each step in the process has been successfully completed and documented.
Non-conformance resolution clause
This clause allows for initial rejection with a resolution opportunity.
Deliverables failing to meet the criteria in [insert section] may be provisionally rejected. Acceptance will be granted upon correcting identified non-conformances within [insert timeframe].
Client-driven review clause
This clause allows the client sole discretion for review and approval.
Deliverables must meet the criteria in [insert section] as determined solely by [Party B]. Acceptance will be granted at [Party B]'s discretion upon their review and approval.
Iterative refinement clause
This clause permits iterative revisions before final acceptance.
Deliverables will be reviewed iteratively to meet the acceptance criteria in [insert section]. Final acceptance will be granted after all iterations have been completed to the satisfaction of [Party B].
Performance audit clause
This clause mandates a performance audit before acceptance.
Deliverables must pass a performance audit conducted by [Party B] or an appointed third party to verify compliance with the criteria in [insert section]. Acceptance is contingent upon passing the audit.
Stakeholder alignment clause
This clause requires input and approval from multiple stakeholders.
Deliverables must receive approval from all stakeholders listed in [insert section]. Acceptance will only occur after unanimous agreement that the acceptance criteria have been met.
Warranty provision clause
This clause ties acceptance to the issuance of a warranty.
Deliverables will be accepted upon confirmation that they meet the acceptance criteria in [insert section] and are covered by a warranty of [insert duration] as outlined in the agreement.
Financial return clause
This clause evaluates acceptance based on projected financial returns.
Deliverables must demonstrate projected financial returns or cost savings as specified in [insert section]. Acceptance will be contingent upon documented evidence of these results.
Regulatory compliance clause
This clause emphasizes adherence to industry or legal standards.
Deliverables must comply with all regulatory and industry standards outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will be granted only after confirmation of full compliance.
On-site testing clause
This clause requires on-site validation of deliverables.
Deliverables must undergo on-site testing to confirm compliance with the acceptance criteria in [insert section]. Acceptance will occur only after successful on-site validation and documentation of results.
Dual-party review clause
This clause mandates a collaborative review by both parties.
Deliverables will be reviewed jointly by [Party A] and [Party B] against the acceptance criteria outlined in [insert section]. Acceptance will only be granted upon mutual agreement that the criteria have been met.
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