Master the discovery, initiation, planning, execution, and closing phases of project management (30% of exam).
Covers all phases of the project life cycle from start to finish. Includes discovery phase artifacts like business cases and financial concepts, project initiation with charters, stakeholder identification, and kickoff meetings, project planning with resource assignment, communication plans, scope definition, and risk assessments, project execution including task management, vendor management, budget management, and phase gate reviews, and project closing with deliverable validation, contract closure, resource release, documentation archiving, and closure meetings.
5 minutes
5 Questions
The Project Life Cycle consists of distinct phases that guide a project from conception to completion. Understanding these phases is essential for effective project management and is a core concept in CompTIA Project+.
**1. Initiation Phase**
This phase marks the beginning of the project. Key activities include identifying the project need, defining objectives, and creating the project charter. Stakeholders are identified, and a preliminary scope is established. The feasibility study helps determine if the project is viable and worth pursuing.
**2. Planning Phase**
During planning, the project team develops detailed plans for execution. This includes creating the project management plan, defining scope through the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), developing schedules, estimating costs, and identifying risks. Resource allocation, communication plans, and quality standards are also established. This phase is critical as it sets the foundation for successful project execution.
**3. Execution Phase**
The execution phase involves implementing the project plan. Team members perform assigned tasks, deliverables are produced, and resources are utilized. Project managers coordinate activities, manage teams, and ensure work aligns with the plan. This phase typically consumes the most resources and time.
**4. Monitoring and Controlling Phase**
This phase runs concurrently with execution. It involves tracking project performance against the baseline, measuring progress, and implementing corrective actions when necessary. Change requests are evaluated and managed through formal change control processes. Key performance indicators help assess project health.
**5. Closing Phase**
The final phase involves formally completing the project. Activities include obtaining stakeholder acceptance, releasing resources, documenting lessons learned, and archiving project documents. Final reports are created, contracts are closed, and the project is officially concluded.
Each phase builds upon the previous one, creating a structured approach that increases the likelihood of project success while managing risks effectively throughout the project journey.The Project Life Cycle consists of distinct phases that guide a project from conception to completion. Understanding these phases is essential for effective project management and is a core concept in CompTIA Project+.
**1. Initiation Phase**
This phase marks the beginning of the project. Key acti…