How to start a project

Last Updated: 29.07.2024

Author: Lukasz Sliwinski

Version: 0.0.1

1. Overview

Purpose:

The purpose of this framework is to establish a method for creating and embarking on new projects.

Scope:

This document is for myself.

Prerequisites:

Literature research.

2. Procedure

Step 1: Define the Project

  • Objective: Clearly outline what you want to achieve with the project. Define the scope and purpose.
  • Goals: Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals.
  • Stakeholders: Identify everyone who has an interest in the project, including team members, sponsors, and clients.

File project_definition_template.md contains a template for the project definition. This template also includes some information from steps 2 and 3.

Step 2: Conduct Feasibility Study

  • Research: Gather information to assess the feasibility of the project.
  • SWOT Analysis:
  • Identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
  • Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks and how to mitigate them.

Step 3: Develop a Project Plan

  • Tasks and Milestones: Break down the project into manageable tasks and milestones.
  • Timeline: Create a timeline with deadlines for each task and milestone.
  • Budget: Estimate the costs and allocate a budget for each aspect of the project.
  • Resources: Determine what resources (people, equipment, software) are needed.

Step 4: Assemble a Team

  • Roles and Responsibilities: Define roles and assign responsibilities to team members.
  • Skills Assessment: Ensure that the team has the necessary skills and experience.
  • Communication Plan: Establish how the team will communicate (meetings, reports, tools).

Step 5: Obtain Approvals

  • Project Charter: Create a project charter that outlines the objectives, scope, and stakeholders.
  • Approvals: Get the necessary approvals from stakeholders or sponsors.

Step 6: Execute the Project

  • Kick-off Meeting: Hold a meeting to kick off the project and ensure everyone is aligned.
  • Task Management: Use a task management tool to track progress.
  • Monitor Progress: Regularly review the progress against the project plan and make adjustments as necessary.

Step 7: Monitor and Control

  • Performance Metrics: Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success.
  • Regular Updates: Provide regular updates to stakeholders.
  • Issue Management: Address any issues or obstacles promptly.

Step 8: Close the Project

  • Final Deliverables: Ensure all deliverables are completed and meet the quality standards.
  • Evaluation: Conduct a project review to evaluate what went well and what could be improved. Documentation: Document all aspects of the project for future reference.
  • Celebration: Acknowledge the hard work of the team and celebrate the project’s success.

Tools and Techniques

Project Management Software: Tools like Trello, Asana, or Microsoft Project can help manage tasks and timelines. Communication Tools: Slack, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams for team communication. Documentation: Google Docs, Confluence, or Microsoft OneNote for documentation and collaboration.

3. Examples

4. Troubleshooting

List common issues that may arise and their solutions.
Include a FAQ section if necessary.

5. References

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6. Appendices

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This might include glossaries, templates, checklists, or additional diagrams.

7. Feedback

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