What are the 5 phases of the project life cycle?

The 5 phases of the project life cycle typically include the initiation phase, where the project is defined and its feasibility assessed; the planning phase, where the project plan is developed including scope, timeline, and resources; the execution phase, where project activities are carried out and deliverables are created; the monitoring and controlling phase, where project performance is tracked and any necessary adjustments are made; and the closing phase, which involves finalising all project activities, formally completing the project and disbanding the project team.

Last edited on: 17 Jun 2025


Project management FAQs

Can a project belong to more than one programme?
Do project managers write business cases?
How do you compare programme and project management?
How do you plan for a project or programme?
How hard is project management?
How is Agile PM different from traditional PM?
Is PRINCE2 the same as waterfall?
Is project management hard to learn?
Is Scrum Agile or waterfall?
What are KPIs in project management?
What are the 5 phases of the project life cycle?
What are the 5 stages of project management?
What are the 5 W's of project management?
What are the basics of project management?
What are the five phases of a project?
What are the phases of PM?
What are the three most important things in project management?
What do you mean by Agile project management?
What does the Gantt chart stand for?
What is a program vs project life cycle?
What is a project life cycle?
What is Agile PM vs waterfall PM?
What is Agile working in project management?
What is difference between project and program management?
What is project management in simple words?
What is the 80 20 rule for project managers?
What is the Agile methodology in project management?
What is the difference between Agile and waterfall?
What is the difference between enterprise change and project change?
What is the difference between PM and Agile?
What is the difference between programme & project management?
What is the difference between project and programme management?
What is the life cycle of a project?
What is the RACI matrix used for?
What is the triangle of project management?
What is WBS in project management?
What project management means?

Project Management related articles

image
AI in Project Management: Hype vs Reality in 2025
image
Scroll down to watch the video and explore how AI can enhance your project management skills today.
image
PMO consulting: Unlocking project success
image
PMO consulting is essential for project success. It offers expert guidance to refine your project management office, leading to better outcomes and increased efficiency.
image
Project controls – your driver to project success
image
Project controls are vital for effective project management. Learn how these tools and techniques can help you monitor progress, forecast outcomes, and keep your projects on track.
image
Project management vs programme management
image
Understand the distinctions between project and programme management. Discover which approach aligns with your organisation's goals and enhances your ability to deliver successful outcomes. Read on to gain valuable insights.
image
Project management apprenticeships
image
Seeking a project management apprenticeship? This guide reveals the top 5 apprenticeship programmes and providers in the UK. Learn how to launch your career and gain valuable skills whilst you earn.
Developing your project management career
Developing your project management career
image
In this webinar, Richard Tulley explores the most effective ways to advance in project management.
image
Project management KPIs
image
Understand the key performance indicators crucial for project success. Explore our guide to project management KPIs and learn how to apply them to enhance your project outcomes.
image
Project management CV
image
Create a standout project management CV to boost your career prospects. This guide offers expert advice on showcasing your skills and achievements effectively. Read on to elevate your job application.
How to write a business case
How to write a business case
image
Master the art of writing a compelling business case to secure project investment. Learn essential skills on business analyst courses by reading further.
Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK)®
Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK)® – Book Review
image
Explore a thorough review of the PMBOK® Guide - Seventh Edition, detailing its relevance and use in project management. Read on to assess its value for your projects.
PRINCE2 Agile focus areas
PRINCE2 Agile focus areas
image
Merging Agile methods with PRINCE2 requires focusing on five key areas. Explore these to enhance your project's agility and success.
PRINCE2 vs Agile or PRINCE2 Agile?
PRINCE2 vs Agile or PRINCE2 Agile?
image
Confused between PRINCE2, Agile, or PRINCE2 Agile? Discover their distinctions and how they can be effectively combined in projects by reading on.

This website use cookies.