What are the 5 stages of project management?

The five phases of project management are:

  • Initiation: the project is defined and its feasibility assessed;
  • Planning: the project plan is developed including scope, timeline, and resources;
  • Execution: project activities are carried out and deliverables are created;
  • Monitoring and controlling: project performance is tracked and any necessary adjustments are made;
  • Closing: involves finalising all project activities, formally completing the project and disbanding the project team.

These 5 project management phases are described in detail in the PMBOK® Guide.

Last edited on: 03 Jun 2025


Project Management related articles

image
Waterfall method
image
Knowledge Train
Discover the structured approach of the project waterfall method. This guide examines the sequential phases, advantages, and limitations of this classic approach.
Which project management qualification?
Which project management qualification?
image
Simon Buehring
Choosing the right project management qualification can be crucial. Learn about the options and which suits your career goals best.
Women in project management
Women in project management
image
Simon Buehring
Explore challenges and opportunities for women in project management through our interview series. Gain insights into industry experiences and advice.
image
Project management triangle
image
Knowledge Train
The project management triangle is crucial for project success. Discover how to effectively balance scope, time and cost to achieve your project goals and deliver outstanding results.
image
Strategic project management
image
Knowledge Train
Strategic project management links projects to business objectives. Learn how to select and execute initiatives that drive your organisation forward. Discover methods to enhance project outcomes and boost overall performance.
Five targets in PRINCE2 Agile
Five targets in PRINCE2 Agile
image
Simon Buehring
Discover the five core targets of PRINCE2 Agile and how they guide effective project management. Read on for insightful details.
image
Project manager: Key responsibilities, skills, and career prospects
image
Knowledge Train
Discover what it takes to be a successful project manager. This article outlines crucial responsibilities, vital skills, and promising career opportunities in the field of project management.
Project portfolio management tools
Project portfolio management tools
image
Simon Buehring
Explore the features of different project portfolio management tools and how to choose the right one for your needs. Read on for a detailed guide.
A guide to project manager salaries: free ebook
A guide to project manager salaries: free ebook
image
Simon Buehring
Understand project manager salary scales with our free ebook. Discover what you could earn in various roles across the industry.
Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK)®
Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK)® – Book Review
image
Simon Buehring
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.
Communicating effectively in projects: insights by Bina Champaneria
Communicating effectively in projects: insights by Bina Champaneria
image
Simon Buehring
Bina Champaneria explores effective communication in project management. Gain valuable insights into enhancing professional communication by reading on.
image
Project management benefits
image
Knowledge Train
Project management offers numerous advantages for businesses. This article explores the main benefits and how they can positively impact your organisation's performance and bottom line.

This website use cookies.

OK