acceptance criteria
Definition
Acceptance criteria are the specific standards or conditions that a product, service, or piece of work must meet before you are legally required to pay for it or consider it complete. Think of it as a checklist written into your contract that defines exactly what 'done' looks like so both sides agree upfront.
Example
If you hire a web developer, your acceptance criteria might state that the website must load in under three seconds, work on mobile devices, and pass a security scan before you release the final payment.
Watch Out
Vague acceptance criteria like 'professional quality' or 'satisfactory work' can lead to costly disputes because they mean different things to different people, so always be as specific as possible in writing.
See which terms appear in your contract?
This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.