This document outlines a project initiation checklist to ensure a project is properly defined before proceeding to the planning stage. The checklist includes verifying that objectives and goals are clear and SMART, scope is well-defined, stakeholders are identified, performance targets and constraints are documented, and the project and project manager have been authorized. Going through this checklist helps provide confidence that the project is ready to move forward in the planning process.

1. 1

2. 2
• A project initiation checklist can ensure one to
determine whether the project is defined properly
and successfully proceed to the next stage of project
life cycle which is the planning stage. The check list
given below makes the organization more confident
of the project being undertaken:
Project initiation checklist

3. 3
• Objectives and Goals:
• Is there a clear picture of the project objectives and
goals?
• Is it clear why this project is being undertaken?
• Are the goals defined SMART? Refer Diagram 2.3.
Project initiation checklist

4. 4
• Are the performance targets been properly
documented and defined?
• Are the constraints listed down and properly
understood?How will they have an impact on the
performance of the project?
Project initiation checklist

5. 5
• Are the performance targets been properly
documented and defined?
• Are the constraints listed down and properly
understood?How will they have an impact on the
performance of the project?
Project initiation checklist

6. Project initiation checklist
Diagram 2.3 -SMART Goals

7. • Scope:
• Is project scope clearly defined?
• Have the deliverables and non deliverables properly
understood and documented?
• If project scope includes any additional
requirements,have the requirements been properly
validated?
Project initiation checklist

8. • Have any external process or system interfaces that
will be impacted by the project being identified?
• Does the project require any other government
agencies approval besides the one normally taken?
• Have all project assumptions been identified?
Project initiation checklist

9. • Stakeholders:
• Has the project sponsor been identified ?
• Has the project manager been identified?
• Are all the stakeholders identified?
Project initiation checklist

10. • Are the reporting relationships indicated in the
project organization chart?
• Have you identified key stakeholders who will review
and approve requested changes during project
execution?
• Is each customer group represented in the project
team?
Project initiation checklist

11. • Acceptance:
• Have all the stakeholders reviewed,agreed
upon,and approved the Project Charter Document.
• Have the project and the project manager been
officially authorized?
Project initiation checklist