ABSTRACT
The old adage that endings are as important as beginnings applies to consulting projects as much as to other human endeavors. In the case of a long project, there is typically a lot of energy and sense of accomplishment at the beginning and in the middle, but then, too often, the project runs out of steam. When writing up contracts and project plans, many consultants are careful to specify several activities that need to be completed at the beginning, middle, and end of the project. Final reports provide justification that a project was worth the time and cost that went into it. The successful completion of a project is worthy of a celebration. If the project has been a success, a lot of people have worked hard and contributed extensive effort. Most consultants make their living from repeat business. However, repeat business does not happen automatically.
