This week, you will compose a 2- to a 3-page paper outlining how to Close out the Project with the customer.
Document in detail how you will execute the following project closure activities:
- Collecting and making final payments
- Recognizing and evaluation staff
- Conducting post project evaluations
- Documenting Lessons Learned
- Organizing and archiving project documents
All assignments should be completed in a Word document using correct APA formatting (Headers, one-inch margins, and double spacing, title page and Reference page, etc.). Please complete the essay in a Microsoft Word document. Essays that are pasted into the Assignments area will not be accepted. The length of your essay response should be around 500+ words.
For this assignment, you will compose a reflective essay based on your project and your experience as a project manager. Please include the following:
- Executive summary
- Leveraging the project lifecycle (initiation, planning, execution, and closing), reflect on things that went well and opportunities for improvement for each phase of the project. Reflect on the project charter, WBS, Schedule, Budget, Risk, etc.
- Discuss the tools and techniques you learned and how they were a benefit to the project and/or how you would leverage the tools and techniques in the future.
- Summary
All assignments should be completed in a Word document using correct APA formatting (Headers, one-inch margins and double spacing, title page and Reference page, etc.). Please complete the essay in a Microsoft Word document. Essays that are pasted into the Assignments area will not be accepted. The length of your essay response should be no less than 1000 words and you must have a minimum of 2 sources.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In the field of project management, the process of closing a project is as important as any other phase, as it sets the foundation for future projects. In this paper, we will outline the various activities and processes of closing a project and how to execute them effectively.
1. Collecting and making final payments:
The first step in closing a project is to collect any outstanding payments from the customer. This is an essential step as it not only reflects proper financial management but also creates a good image in the minds of the customers. The project manager must ensure that all vendors, contractors, and suppliers have been paid and that all relevant paperwork is in order. The project manager should also obtain a signed acknowledgment of project completion from the customer.
2. Recognizing and evaluating staff:
The project manager should recognize and evaluate the efforts of all staff involved in the project. This can be done by holding a team meeting where each team member can share their experiences and feedback. The project manager can also provide letters of appreciation and project completion certificates to the team members. This acknowledgment not only serves as recognition for the team’s hard work but can also boost morale and improve team spirit.
3. Conducting post-project evaluations:
Post-project evaluations are conducted to assess the project’s performance and identify areas for improvement. The project manager should conduct an evaluation meeting where the team can discuss their experiences and share feedback. The evaluation should include both the project’s successes and failures, and the team should identify areas for improvement that can be implemented in future projects. It is important to document the evaluation and share the lessons learned with the relevant stakeholders.
4. Documenting lessons learned:
Documenting lessons learned is an important step in the project closure process. This documentation includes all the strengths and weaknesses of the project and outlines the steps taken by the project team to mitigate risks and challenges. The lessons learned document should include recommendations for future projects and serve as a guide for project managers.
5. Organizing and archiving project documents:
Organizing and archiving project documents is the final step in closing a project. The project manager should ensure that all relevant documents, such as project plans, schedules, budget reports, and contract documents, are properly organized and archived. These documents should be readily accessible for future reference and audits.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the project closure phase is an integral part of the project management process. It is important to execute each step with care and attention to detail to ensure the project’s successful closure. The project manager should recognize the efforts of the team, conduct a post-project evaluation, and document lessons learned. These activities will not only ensure a successful project closure but also serve as a foundation for future project success.