3. Project Phases

A project can be divided in project phases. As described in the literature and as defined individually by companies, there are different possibilities of structuring a project and naming the project phases. This book defines the following four practice-oriented phases:• Strategy phaseThe strategy phase starts with a situation analysis and an environmental analysis to identify framework conditions for a project to be implemented. If a project becomes specified, the definition of project goals is made. First solution approaches complete the basis for a project order. The project order signifies the start of a project. Depending on the size and kind of a project, the creation of a tender specification and performance specification has to be done.• Planning phaseThe planning of a project is an essential task of a project manager. The result of the project planning is a project plan, covering further plans. The most important plans are the work breakdown structure (WBS) and based on this the time schedule including a milestone plan as well as the resource plan and cost schedule. The function of a project organization is to find the most effective structure in relation to the line organization for a successful implementation of the project. Corresponding roles and boards are to be defined.• Realization phaseThe controlling of a project is another essential task of a project manager. In the foreground is the organization of the approval of intermediate milestones, the project closure, or—if required—the project cancellation. The project internal and external communication with the stakeholders has to be ensured. If there are deviations or disturbances in the course of the project, corresponding activities have to be carried out. In using the milestone trend analysis based on the milestone plan, the project progress can be monitored and possible schedule difficulties detected.• Closure phaseIn this phase the project completion is done. The central point is the acceptance of the project by the principal. In a last phase final tasks are done, transitions, and at the end release of the resources. Lessons learned and a final documentation secure the newly acquired knowledge for future projects.