Steps for Proper Project Closure
PMO Redesign Series #7: Closing the Project
26 November 2024 I PMO Redesign Series
Project Closure: More Than Just a Final Step
Closing a project might seem like a simple administrative process, but it’s essential to ensuring success, aligning with organisational goals, and safeguarding stakeholder satisfaction. As the Project Management Institute highlights, skipping proper closure can result in unresolved tasks, operational inefficiencies, and accountability issues, potentially undermining a project team’s credibility.
Why Project Closure is Essential
Think of a project as building a house: skipping the final inspection leaves uncertainty about whether everything meets expectations. Similarly, without proper closure, a project risks incomplete tasks, unachieved goals, and missed opportunities to learn and improve.
Project closure isn’t about bureaucracy—it’s about recognising achievements, ensuring transitions to Business as Usual (BAU), and preparing for future success.
Steps for Proper Project Closure
1. Finalise Deliverables
Confirm all outputs meet the agreed scope and standards. Stakeholders validate deliverables to ensure usability and alignment with goals.
2. Transition to BAU
Document workflows and configurations, and provide training to operational teams for a smooth handover.
3. Secure Stakeholder Approval
Conduct a final review to formalise acceptance. Gather feedback to guide future projects.
4. Conduct a Post-Implementation Review
Assess outcomes against objectives, highlighting successes and areas for improvement.
5. Close Financial Accounts
Reconcile budgets, approve final invoices, and account for unused funds.
6. Release Resources
Reallocate team members to new roles and close vendor contracts.
7. Archive Project Documentation
Store charters, RAID logs, and financial records centrally for future reference.
8. Celebrate Achievements
Recognise the team’s efforts with a closure meeting or celebration, marking a successful conclusion.
Final Thoughts: The Value of Closure
Proper project closure ensures a seamless transition to BAU, safeguards organisational goals, and captures valuable insights for future success. At ANRF Research and Consultancy, we excel at executing this phase with precision, ensuring every project ends on a high note.
Need help with project closure?
Contact Dr. Farukh Rahman for expert guidance to streamline your project lifecycle.
Please reach out to ANRF Research and Consultancy for tailored advise in obligation-free discussion:
📞 Call : 1300 845 135
📧 Email: director@anrf.com.au
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