PROJECT LIFE CYCLE

Every project, to some extent, has its own unique characteristics, such as schedule and resource requirements. However, most projects progress through a life cycle consisting of several phases, though some projects may not progress through all the phases. In theory, a project that progresses from start to finish passes through five phases: conception, formulation, implementation, installation, and sustaining. The matrix in Table 13 shows each phase, including its definition and common output.

Knowing what phase of the life cycle a project is in offers three benefits. One, it indicates what may or may not have been done already. Two, it indicates how well the project is progressing. Three, it indicates what important issues the project may be facing.

for Determining the Phase of a Project

• Review project documentation (e.g., reports, network diagrams) in the project history files.
• Review databases that feed automated scheduling software.
• Interview key participants for the project.
• Identify output to date and evaluate its completeness.