Project Life Cycle Phases and Processes

A project life cycle is a series of phases that a project goes through from its initiation to its closure. It provides a structured approach to project management, ensuring that all necessary activities are planned, executed, and controlled.

Typical Phases of a Project Life Cycle

1. Initiation Phase:
   • Processes:
     • Define the project scope and objectives.
     • Develop the project charter.
     • Identify stakeholders.
     • Develop the project management plan.
2. Planning Phase:
   • Processes:
     • Develop the project schedule.
     • Create the work breakdown structure (WBS).
     • Estimate costs and resources.
     • Develop the risk management plan.
     • Develop the quality management plan.
     • Develop the communication management plan.
3. Execution Phase:
   • Processes:
     • Acquire the project team.
     • Assign tasks and responsibilities.
     • Execute the project work.
     • Monitor project work.
     • Manage quality.
     • Manage stakeholder expectations.
4. Monitoring and Control Phase:
   • Processes:
     • Monitor project progress.
     • Control project scope.
     • Manage project schedule.
     • Manage project costs.
     • Manage quality.
     • Manage risk.
     • Manage stakeholder expectations.
5. Closing Phase:
   • Processes:
     • Finalize project deliverables.
     • Conduct a project evaluation.
     • Close contracts.
     • Release project resources.

Project Scheduling Tool: Gantt Chart

A Gantt chart is a visual representation of a project schedule, displaying tasks and their start and finish dates. It provides a clear overview of the project timeline and helps identify potential bottlenecks and resource constraints.

How to Use a Gantt Chart for Project Scheduling:

1. Define Tasks: Break down the project into smaller, manageable tasks.
2. Estimate Task Durations: Assign a duration to each task based on its complexity and resource requirements.
3. Identify Dependencies: Determine the relationships between tasks and sequence them accordingly.
4. Create the Gantt Chart: Use a Gantt chart software or template to visually represent the project schedule.
5. Monitor Progress: Track actual progress against the planned schedule and make adjustments as needed.

By using a Gantt chart, project managers can effectively plan, monitor, and control project schedules, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget.