Deviations: Overview, definition, and example
What are deviations?
Deviations refer to any departures or variations from a set plan, standard, rule, or agreement. In business or legal contexts, deviations can occur when the expected course of action is not followed, such as when a product doesn’t meet the agreed-upon specifications, or when a project is delayed or goes off track. Deviations can be intentional or unintentional and often require justification or explanation to ensure that the results or decisions still align with the overall goals or requirements.
In simpler terms, deviations are changes or differences from what was originally planned or expected.
Why are deviations important?
Deviations are important because they can affect the quality, timelines, or outcomes of a business operation or project. When deviations occur, it's necessary to understand why they happened, whether they are acceptable, and what adjustments need to be made to stay on course. In some cases, deviations may be unavoidable due to unforeseen circumstances, but managing and documenting them is crucial for maintaining control over processes, meeting objectives, and ensuring accountability.
For SMB owners, tracking and understanding deviations is essential for risk management, quality control, and ensuring that business activities stay aligned with the goals and standards set.
Understanding deviations through an example
Imagine you are managing a construction project, and the team was expected to complete the foundation by a specific date. However, due to unforeseen weather delays, the foundation isn’t completed on time. This delay would be considered a deviation from the original project schedule. You might need to assess the impact of this deviation, adjust the timeline, and communicate with stakeholders to explain the cause and how you plan to address it.
In this case, the deviation (the delay) requires action to minimize its effect on the overall project and keep everything aligned with the final objectives.
Example of a deviations clause
Here’s an example of what a deviations clause might look like in a contract:
“Any deviations from the agreed-upon specifications, schedule, or quality standards must be documented and communicated to the other party within [X] days. Both parties shall review the deviations and agree on any corrective actions required to maintain the original objectives of the agreement.”
Conclusion
Deviations are changes from the planned course of action, and understanding them is vital for managing risks, maintaining quality, and ensuring that business operations stay on track. For SMB owners, being able to identify, track, and address deviations helps ensure that any unforeseen changes don’t derail your goals or compromise your business’s success. Whether it’s a minor deviation or a more significant change, managing deviations effectively ensures that the business can continue operating smoothly and efficiently.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.