Methodologies &

Life Cycles
Two tools to help a project
manager be truly effective!
 Methodologies-1
A methodology is a set of standards and
procedures to follow for a given process.
The purpose of a project management
methodology is to create repeatable processes
as well as to provide consistency among project
managers.
A good methodology is:
Easy to use
Provides a solid framework
Allows flexibility
 Methodologies-2
Project management methodologies are
guidelines for the type of documentation
and authorities required to proceed at
various points throughout the project.
These guidelines:
Provide a framework within which to work
Help an organization standardize procedures
and terminologies
 Methodologies-3
Companies create their project
management methodologies in three
ways:
They purchase them from another company
and use them as is.
They develop their own methodologies from
scratch.
They customize a purchased methodology.
Methodologies evolve over time.
 Life Cycles-1
Life cycles define the various components
of a projects or products life.
Life cycles are comprised of three
components:
Initiation
Execution
Closing
 Life Cycles-2
Every company with a project
management methodology usually has its
own project management life cycle, too.
A life cycle divides each project into
discrete stages or phases which, in turn,
dictate the types of activities performed
during these stages or phases.
 Sample Life Cycles
Here are several examples of project
management life cycles:
Project initiation, planning, construction,
project review
Start-up, planning, implementation, post-
implementation
Initiating, planning, developing evaluating
 Other Tips
Combining methodologies with life cycles
helps a company build repeatable project
successes.
Find out which methodologies and life
cycles are standard in your company.
While names for each phase, activity and task
might differ, the work being done will not.