A project is a time bound process that is undertaken by a team to achieve a specified goal. The project development process involves certain common processes called the initiation, development process, execution and closure or maintenance. Let us discuss the above mentioned processes in detail.

Initiation process

The nature and the scope of the development of the project are determined by the initiation process. If this stage is not performed efficiently, the project would probably fail to satisfy the needs of the business.

The necessity to understand the environment of the business should be kept in mind here. This is to make sure all the necessary controls are well incorporated in the project process. Any kind of defect or deficiency should be reported and should be fixed at the earliest opportunity.

The initiation stage should include the project planning and project scheduling. It includes preparing a framework to realize the needs of the business. It also includes preparing the conceptual design of the final product, requirement for equipments, a financial analysis including the benefits and costs plus a budget.

Execution process

In the project management system, the execution or implementation stage is the most crucial. This stage follows the initiation stage.

In this stage, the team works according to the prepared plan to complete the project successfully.

The project testing process is accomplished by the use of a combination of end users and testers. It is made sure that the final product meets the specifications of the charter of the project.

The project is considered successful if it satisfies the sponsor of the project, user and also the business requirements. It performs the functions as it was supposed to, can be produced being under quality standards and can be produced within budget and time limitations.

Closing and maintenance

The last stage of closing is reached when the project is accepted formally and ends. Certain administrative activities that include documentation and file archiving are also accomplished in this stage.

The documentation is done to learn lessons from the flaws in the project, if any. Also documentation helps for future reference. Also, it is useful for project analysis.

The maintenance stage includes the continuous support of the users, error correction and regular software update. It is extremely important to pay attention to the rectification of any problems and how effectively they are resolved. Maintenance is necessary to ensure long term relations with the user.

All these processes can be successfully completed with the help of project planning software or project manager software. These are readily available in the software market.

For almost all projects that include the development of a product, the project development process is the same. It will normally include the above mentioned processes. These processes need proper implementation to make sure that you end up with the desired result.