What are the five phases of a project?

The five phases of a project 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.

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

Last edited on: 30 Jun 2026
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