Define Stage

Once a project request is approved and scheduled it moves into the project delivery.  The first stage of project delivery is the define stage.  In this stage the project manager is assigned to the project and will work with the sponsor to develop the project charter and stakeholder register. 

The focus of the define stage is identifying what the project will do and answers the following questions:

• What are the goals and objectives?
• What approach will the project follow?
• What scope will the project deliver?
• What deliverables will the project create?
• What are the key milestones?
• Who are the stakeholders?
• What are the known risks, assumptions, constraints?

This information is documented in the project charter and provides the basis for all future project activities and direction the project will follow. 

This stage concludes with the approval of the project charter from the project sponsor.  The approval provides the project manager with the authority to apply college resources to project activities.

Pre-Conditions

• The project has been approved as part of the portfolio
• Resources (ITS and Non-ITS) are assigned and available to work on the Define stage of the project

Key Activities

1. Assign Project Manager/Coordinator
2. Prepare for project
3. Identify stakeholders
4. Develop project charter
5. Complete Gate 2 - Gain approval of charter to proceed to PLAN stage

Key Deliverables

1. Project Charter
2. Stakeholder Register

Additional Resources

1. Project Sponsor Interview Questionnaire
2. Organizational Change Impact Assessment Tool

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