The Initiation Process recognises that a project or phase should begin and commits resources to undertake the project. (Gateway 0)
| Note: |
| The Initiation Phase is the most important phase and unless it is carried out effectively, the project stands little chance of success. |
Lack of detail at this stage can result in some of the common reasons for project failure, i.e.:
• Insufficient senior level support
• Poor initiation and project definition
• Inflexible application of planning tools
• Over-optimistic estimating and planning of resources
• Incomplete Project Plan
• Unclear levels of authority
• Unclear roles and responsibilities
• Poor communications
• Poor stakeholder management
• Uncontrolled change
| A checklist of actions to help avoid common reasons for project failure is available along with a Project Health Checklist Excel spreadsheet |
The checklist questions that need answered at this stage, will form the basis of the Capital Approvals and Gateway Review documentation.