What is a project life cycle?

A project life cycle is a framework that describes the stages a project goes through, from initiation to closure. These stages typically include initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and control, and closure. The life cycle provides a structured approach to managing projects, ensuring that key objectives are met and that each phase transitions smoothly into the next.

It helps in organising tasks, setting timelines, and allocating resources effectively. Having a well-defined project life cycle can improve project outcomes and stakeholder satisfaction.

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

PRINCE2 Agile cost
PRINCE2 Agile cost
image
Understand the costs of PRINCE2 Agile courses and what to expect beyond the course fee. Read on to plan your budget effectively.
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.
Social media on projects
Social media on projects
image
Uncover how social media can enhance project management and professional growth. Discover the platforms and techniques that can aid your career.
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 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
Kanban management – from chaos to clarity when transforming projects
image
Kanban project management offers a path from disorder to organised success. Learn how Kanban can streamline your workflow and boost productivity. Read on to transform your projects today.
image
Sustainable project management
image
Sustainable project management is crucial for today's businesses. Explore our comprehensive guide to learn how you can incorporate eco-friendly practices into your projects and drive positive change.
What is PMP® certification, its benefits, and how to get it?
What is PMP® certification, its benefits, and how to get it?
image
Learn why PMP® certification is regarded as the gold standard in project management and how it can boost your career. Read more for benefits and acquisition tips.
image
How to become a project management consultant
image
Seeking to transition into project management consulting? Our guide outlines essential steps and highlights five leading job platforms. Learn how to launch your consulting career in project management today.
Portfolios and portfolio management
Portfolios and portfolio management
image
Understand the strategic benefits of project portfolio management in aligning projects with organizational goals. Learn more by reading on.
Developing your project management career
Developing your project management career
image
Developing your project management career takes strategic planning. Discover actionable strategies to advance in the field by reading this article.
Project manage your life – Webinar with Bina Champaneria
Project manage your life – Webinar with Bina Champaneria
image
To watch the webinar recording of Bina Champaneria discussing project management techniques to manage your life, watch the video or download the podcast or presentation.

This website use cookies.