JS Tip 573: Developing the Project (The Fifth in a Series) 

This week, we’ll explore the fourth of the five recognized* phases in project management: Development.

We’ve been building a doghouse for Little Debbie—our Great Dane—as a project example.

Development is the doing. The building and the checking. Building the doghouse. Checking to make sure everything is there and working. 

Let’s look at the specifics of developing for Debbie’s doghouse: 

  1. Build the doghouse. Prep the base. (Clear the grass. Put down the cedar chips.) Build the shell. (The raised floor. The walls. The gabled roof.) Finish the house. (Shingles. Space heater. Paint. Carpet piece.)

  2. Check that everything is there and working. Remember this phrase: “Go Live.” “Go Live” means our project is complete, and we’re ready to turn everything over to our customer (Debbie). We review what we planned to do, compare that with what we’ve done, and resolve any differences. This is the “Readiness Review.”

“Is everything according to plan and ready?” “Yup. All there.” “Excellent!” 

That’s the development phase. 

Next week, we’ll wrap it up. 

Let us know your questions. 

We love this stuff.  Stay well.

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* Your best source for guidance on project management is the Project Management Institute. They’re the authority. Visit their website at www.pmi.org. 

Kurt Weiland