The Project Initiation phase

Summary

The video delves into the critical phase of Project Management: Project Definition, emphasizing its significance and ten essential components. It starts by defining Project Definition as a roadmap outlining a project’s scope, objectives, and deliverables. By establishing clarity upfront, it aligns the project with organizational goals and guides decision-making.

The ten essential components discussed are:

  1. Goal: The overarching aim of the project, providing direction and motivation.
  2. Objectives: Criteria for evaluating project success, often following SMART formulations.
  3. Scope: Defining project boundaries and what will be included or excluded.
  4. Exclusions: Listing items explicitly excluded from the project to prevent scope creep.
  5. Deliverables: Tangible outcomes produced by the project.
  6. Dependencies and Constraints: External factors influencing project progress and limitations on choices.
  7. Risks and Issues: Addressing uncertainties and potential problems early to prevent project failure.
  8. Uncertainties and Assumptions: Identifying unknowns to make informed decisions and mitigate risks.
  9. Stakeholders: Identifying and engaging with key stakeholders to ensure project success.
  10. Project Team: Considering the skills and expertise needed for project execution.

While the discussed components form a robust framework for project definition, it’s important to recognize that project management is an evolving discipline. Continual adaptation and learning are key to navigating the complexities of diverse projects successfully. This comprehensive understanding and proactive approach to project definition not only enhance project outcomes but also contribute to organizational growth and resilience in an ever-changing landscape.

Practice with your Team – Guide

Questions

  • Why is it important to do the Project now? Why should it be a priority?
  • What are the expected (financial) benefits?

Video

Project Initiation – Quick example
What is a project initiation document?

Leave a Reply