The Project Execution Plan (PEP) is the governing document that establishes the means to execute, monitor, and control, projects which are subject to DOE O 413.3B.  It establishes the policies and procedures to be followed in order to manage and control project planning, initiation, definition, execution and transition/closeout, and uses the outcomes and outputs from all project planning processes, integrating them into a formally approved document. It includes an accurate reflection of how the project is to be accomplished, the minimum Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) for CD-4, resource requirements, technical considerations, risk management, configuration management, and roles and responsibilities. A preliminary PEP is required to support CD-1. This document continues to be refined throughout the duration of a project and revisions are documented through the configuration management process.

In addition to the PEP, many projects will be required to develop a Project Management Plan detailing the management processes and systems used to successfully execute the project.

The preliminary PEP is part of the Critical Decision-1 approval package. Depending upon the type of project and team experience, information could range from greater detail regarding current or near term activities (i.e., the design phase systems, processes, procedures and personnel) to less detail for future activities concerning procurement and construction activities to even less detail regarding testing, start-up and operational transition.

Project objectives are derived from the mission needs statement, and the integrated project team assists in development of the PEP. The plan is a living document and should be updated to describe current and future processes and procedures, such as integrating safety into the design process. Updates are common as a project moves through Critical Decision stages.