A project is an endeavor to accomplish a specific objective through a unique set of interrelated tasks and the effective utilization of resources.

It has a well-defined objective stated in terms of scope, schedule, and costs. Projects are born when a need is identified by the customer the people or organization willing to provide funds to have the need satisfied.

Planning a wedding
Designing and implementing a computer system Hosting a holiday party Designing and producing a brochure Executing an environmental clean-up of a contaminated site Holding a high school reunion Performing a series of surgeries on an accident victim

The first phase involves the identification of a need, problem, or opportunity. The need and requirements are usually written by the customer into a document called a request for proposal (RFP).

The second phase is the development of a proposed solution to the need or problem. This phase results in the submission of a proposal.

The customer and the winning contractor negotiate and sign a contract (agreement).

The third phase is performing the project.

Different types of resources are utilized

Results in the accomplishment of the project objective

The final phase is terminating the project. Perform close-out activities Evaluate performance Invite customer feedback

The key to a successful project is in the planning. Creating a project plan is the first thing you should do when undertaking any kind of project. Project planning is a discipline for stating how to complete a project within a certain timeframe, usually with defined stages, and with designated resources.

Often project planning is ignored in favour of getting on with the work. However, many people fail to realise the value of a project plan in saving time, money and many problems. The value of project planning is saving money saving time saving many problems Remember: If you fail to plan, you plan to fail

Project planning is done to increase the likelihood that a project will be implemented efficiently, effectively and successfully. Project planning covers the first three stages of "the project management cycle."

This cycle, describes the various stages for conceptualising, planning, implementing and evaluating a project and recognises that even when a project is finished, it may provide the starting point for a new one. These stages are given below:1. Conceptualise project scope and objectives: Explore the problem, identify priority needs, consider project solutions and evaluate organisational capacity.

2. Plan the project: Establish the project scope;

clarify goals and objectives; choose the most appropriate course of action; identify the inputs and resources required in terms of: people, materials, time and money; develop a budget and draft a project plan. 3. Prepare project proposal: Present the project to important stakeholders, receive their feedback and secure the necessary material, human and financial resources.

4. Implement the project: Implement the project by following a work-plan and completing pre-determined tasks and activities. Monitor progress and adjust as necessary. 5. Evaluate the project: Review what has happened, consider the value of what has been achieved, and learn from that experience in order to improve future project planning.

1. Every project needs a roadmap with clearly defined goals that should not change after the first phase of the project has been completed. All stakeholders benefiting from the outcome of the project should be named and their needs stated. 2. Develop a list of all deliverables, make sure all project team members are familiar with this list.

3. A document that clearly outlines all project milestones and activities required to complete the project should be created and maintained. Establish reasonable deadlines, taking into account project team members productivity, availability and efficiency. 4. Create a budget for your project.

5. Ideally, project managers should be able to choose team members who work well together. Identify by name all individuals and/or organizations involved in the project.

For each of them, roles and responsibilities on the project should be described in detail. Otherwise, miscommunication may occur leading to delays and situations where team members may have to redo their work. 6. Set progress reporting guidelines monthly, weekly or daily reports. Ideally, a collaborative workspace should be set up for your project online or offline where all parties can monitor the progress.

7. Identify the risks involved in your project and discuss alternatives if new requirements will be added to your project or members of your team will not meet the deadlines. These steps should get you started with delivering your project on time, within your budget.