ABSTRACT
This chapter considers two earliest stages of the project, namely the start-up stage and the initiation stage, which respectively lay the foundation for the subsequent stage and for the entire project. In the start-up stage the pre-requisites for the project to be initiated are identified. Effort is expended, to the least extent possible, to gather all necessary information prior to deciding whether the project investment is worthwhile. The subsequent initiation stage provides the project with firm roots before committing to a major effort, in addition to supporting the customer organization in quantifying project resources to achieve a successful completion. Planning for future project controls takes place in the initiation stage, in accordance with the overall Project Plan and with the preparation of the Project Initiation Documentation (PID). The duration of the initiation stage can be conveniently shortened to a significant extent and the performance will be better if PMO is involved in supporting the earliest period of the project.
