PMP Project Lifecycle

The PMP Project Lifecycle is the structured framework of five phases—Initiation, Planning, Execution, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closure—that guide a project from start to finish. It’s the foundation of the Project Management Institute’s PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge) and ensures projects are delivered systematically and successfully.

🛤 The Five Phases of the PMP Project Lifecycle

1. Initiation

  • Define the project’s purpose, feasibility, and high-level scope.

  • Develop the Project Charter (similar to LSS charters) to secure sponsor approval.

  • Identify stakeholders and establish initial expectations.

  • Output: Approved charter and stakeholder register.

2. Planning

  • Create a detailed roadmap for execution.

  • Define scope, objectives, deliverables, and success criteria.

  • Develop schedules, budgets, resource plans, and risk management strategies.

  • Communication and stakeholder engagement plans are finalized.

  • Output: Comprehensive Project Management Plan.

3. Execution

  • Carry out the project work according to the plan.

  • Coordinate people, resources, and stakeholder engagement.

  • Deliverables are produced and quality assurance is performed.

  • Output: Completed deliverables and performance reports.

4. Monitoring & Controlling

  • Track progress against the plan using KPIs and metrics.

  • Manage changes, risks, and issues.

  • Ensure scope, schedule, and budget remain aligned.

  • Output: Performance reports, change requests, corrective actions.

5. Closure

  • Formalize acceptance of deliverables.

  • Release resources and document lessons learned.

  • Archive project documents and celebrate completion.

  • Output: Final project report and stakeholder sign-off.

⚡ Why It Matters

  • Consistency: Provides a repeatable structure across industries.

  • Clarity: Ensures stakeholders know what to expect at each stage.

  • Control: Enables proactive risk and change management.

  • Success: Increases likelihood of delivering on time, within scope, and budget.

🔑 Takeaway

The PMP Project Lifecycle is a disciplined roadmap that transforms ideas into completed deliverables. By following its five phases, project managers can balance structure with flexibility, ensuring projects meet stakeholder needs while adapting to inevitable changes.