Are you looking to manage large-scale projects either for yourself or your team? Look no further than stage-gate project management. While it might sound complicated, this type of project management is simply an effective tool for managing large-scale projects in any organization. The process allows organizations to efficiently move projects through a sequence of stages and gates that ensure the successful completion of the project.
But how can you use it? What are the stages? We dive into the three distinct stages of this project management process that serve as the building blocks for delivering successful projects, below.
The 3 stages of stage-gate project management (yes, there are stages)
1. Idea stage
The first stage, like many stages in project management, is the idea stage. In this stage, ideas for the project are developed and a project team is formed. The team of experts will assess the feasibility of the project and generate a high-level budget estimate. This team also identifies potential risks and develops strategies to minimize those risks. Furthermore, project managers design the project charter, which outlines the objectives, scope, and deliverables of the project.
2. Development stage
The second stage is (no surprise here) the development stage. This stage entails the development of a detailed project plan with clear milestones and deliverables. The project manager ensures that the project plan meets all the requirements of the project charter and that all the resources are acquired. The project manager also identifies the key personnel who will be responsible for delivering the project. It is important to ensure that everyone involved has the necessary skills and experience to complete the project successfully.
3. Execution stage
Often, when managing large-scale projects, teams want to rush to this next stage: the execution stage. But without the previous two stages, the execution stage cannot happen successfully. Arguably the most vital stage in stage-gate project management, this is where the actual project is implemented. At this stage, the project manager must track progress and make necessary changes to ensure that the project is delivered according to the project charter. The project team also reviews any data that is collected during execution to identify any potential obstacles or successes. When the project is completed, the project manager reviews the lessons learned during the project and produces final reports to present to stakeholders.
Are you ready to try it for yourself?
Stage-gate project management provides organizations with an effective way of managing large-scale projects — and could help yours, too. With any project management system, the key to success is communication and flexibility. By carefully planning the project stages and gates, organizations can ensure that they deliver successful projects on time and within budget.
Plus, consider using Hive to manage your project management efforts. With our project management tool, you can stay on top of each step in stage-gate project management, as your team rises to success.
