turnkey

Turnkey refers to goods or services delivered in a ready-to-use condition, so the client can begin operation with minimal additional work. In a turnkey arrangement, the provider handles all phases of a project—design, procurement, construction, installation, testing, training, documentation, and handover—such that the buyer can simply "turn the key" to start using the facility or system. The term has historical roots in the idea of delivering a fully completed product that requires no additional assembly by the purchaser. It is commonly used in construction, manufacturing, and information technology.

Turnkey contracts are a form of project delivery in which a single contractor is responsible for delivering a complete, functioning result at a predetermined price. The client minimizes active management of the project and transfers substantial risk to the contractor, including later-stage commissioning and warranty obligations. In return, the client gains speed, predictable cost, and a clearly defined point of responsibility.

Applications span turnkey homes, factory or plant turnkeys (including equipment, utilities, and automation), and turnkey software or IT solutions that include installation, data migration, training, and ongoing support. Benefits include reduced management burden, faster deployment, and a single contractual relationship; drawbacks can include reduced client control over design details, potential misalignment with evolving needs if scope is poorly defined, and vendor lock-in.

Key considerations include clear scope and acceptance criteria, defined responsibilities, quality warranties, training and documentation, and post-implementation support. Turnkey should be distinguished from related approaches such as design-build, build-to-suit, or off-the-shelf solutions, which involve different allocations of risk and control.