Performance

What Does Acceptance Criteria Mean?

Standards used to decide whether work or deliverables are acceptable.

Example in a contract

A contract may use “acceptance criteria” when describing standards used to decide whether work or deliverables are acceptable.

01

Simple definition

Standards used to decide whether work or deliverables are acceptable.

02

What acceptance criteria means in a contract

This concept appears in clauses defining what each party must do, when performance is due, and what happens if performance is delayed or prevented.

03

Why it may matter

It can affect delivery expectations, standards of effort, excuses for delay, and remedies for non-performance. Review the exact language rather than relying on the label alone.

FAQ

Questions about acceptance criteria.

What does acceptance criteria mean in plain English?+

Standards used to decide whether work or deliverables are acceptable.

Where might acceptance criteria appear in a contract?+

This concept appears in clauses defining what each party must do, when performance is due, and what happens if performance is delayed or prevented.

Is this definition legal advice?+

No. ClauseInsight provides concise informational explanations. The legal effect of a term depends on the complete document, facts, and applicable law.