Every project begins with a Project Charter, authorizing the project and identifying the project’s sponsor.

This document outlines what the Scope of the project will or will not include, what Deliverables are required, and other key information needed to begin.

Once your project is approved, your next step is to identify Stakeholders. These are all the folks who will influence or be influenced by your project. It’s important to identify everybody who might have something to say, since many projects have been derailed by an unforeseen stakeholder coming in out of left field with critical concerns.

With stakeholder input gained from a Needs Assessment, you can decide on the details of your project and begin your planning process.