Lifecycles

Question 1

What is a lifecycle?

Answer 1

The framework or high level structure for management of a project.

Question 2

What are the phases of a linear lifecycle?

Answer 2

Concept - development of scope and business case. Assessment of project viability

Definition - detailed planning phase (development of PMP). Further assessment of project viability.

Deployment - project execution which may be split into smaller phases.

Transition - handover of project into BAU. Lessons learned.

Question 3

What are the benefits of a linear lifecycle?

Answer 3

1. Suitable for low risk projects.
2. Provides a clear framework for the project team.
3. Provides maximum control and governance.

Question 4

What are the limitations of a linear lifecycle?

Answer 4

1. Requires very early clarity on scope and governance.
2. Less flexible with strict change control.
3. Realising benefits is a longer process.

Question 5

What are the phases of an iterative lifecycle?

Answer 5

Pre-project - this is similar to concept and assesses project viability against organisational strategy.

Feasibility - again similar to concept. This tests commercial viability and seeks to obtain project funding.

Foundations - planning phase for time and resources, including how many iterations there will be.

Question 6

What are the benefits of an iterative lifecycle?

Answer 6

1. Fixed time and cost
2. Allows close working with users
3. Greater flexibility - evolving objectives
4. Benefits realisation is achieved sooner

Question 7

What are the limitations of an iterative lifecycle?

Answer 7

1. More challenging resource management
2. Relies on user and stakeholder input which can hinder delivery
3. Complex delivery - i.e. must ensure each new feature is compatible with previous features

Question 8

What are the benefits and limitations of a hybrid lifecycle?

Answer 8

Benefits: incorporates flexibility whilst maintaining rigor and structure.

Limitations: much more complex to manage.

Question 9

What is an extended lifecycle?

Answer 9

An extended lifecycle incorporates adoption of outputs and benefits realisation into the project lifecycle.

Question 10

What are the benefits and limitations of an extended lifecycle?

Answer 10

Benefits: project manager remains accountable for successful adoption of outputs and benefits. Ensures knowledge transfer from project team to BAU.

Limitations: adds significant time to the project.

Question 11

What affects choice of lifecycle?

Answer 11

1. Type of organisation - i.e. heavily regulated sectors (linear), rapid evolution/innovation (iterative).
2. Organisation culture - i.e. inflexible to change (linear), open to risk (iterative). Project should match BAU environment.
3. Funding - i.e. where is the funding coming from? Is the project able to access total budget at once (iterative) or is this released in phases (linear)?