Project Life Cycle

Step 1: Identify a Need

This step, always the first step, is critical. It is a basic examination of opportunity, but it's more. The important thing is to identify the need that is in the best interest of the client. Sometimes, the client doesn't recognize the real need. They may think, for example, that the company needs a new financial system. But upon closer examination, you may determine that a better reporting system will make all the difference. Here again is the overriding principle: "Working in the best interest of the client always works in your own best interest."

This step doesn't have to be very complex. It can simply be a statement that there is a deficient process that needs to be improved. The examination of alternatives can be put off until the next step.

Originator: In a sponsored project, the originator is usually the client.

Deliverable: A project initiation request. This might have some specific name in your organization, but it amounts to a Request for Proposal (RFP).

Components:

1. Examine the existing system

2. List and examine alternatives

   1. Recommend taking no action

   2. Create a procedural workaround

   3. Define a project (1 or more alternative plans.)

3. Prioritize and Initiate

Step 2: Business Case

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