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CREATION OF A PHASE MODEL AS A TEAM

Now is the time to plan the project in terms of cost and time. A simple but effective approach is to draw up a phase plan. [11]. This process model divides a project into individual phases, i.e. into manageable time periods that can be defined in terms of subject matter or content. Each phase begins and ends with a milestone or other measurable event. A new phase can only begin once the previous phase has been completed. It is therefore advisable to create the phase model in a workshop with the team.

1. Project phase plan
Date of phase plan creation, participants.

2. Workshop procedure

  • Definition of phases and the results in each phase. A standard phase model is useful here
    Team work 15 min
  • Estimate of the duration and costs of each phase
    Individual work 5 min
  • Preparation of a summary of results, tables and a chart
    Team work 20 min

3. Workshop planning results

Standard phase models for different project types


Presentation of the results in tabular form:

Tabular representation of the phases and milestones of a phase model


Presentation of the results in graphical form:

Graphical representation of the phases and milestones of a phase model

KNOWLEDGE GAINED AND FURTHER PROCEDURES

Targets
Without a clear designation of the phases and a clear definition of the results at the end of the phase, there will be problems estimating the effort and time required. The standard phases in a project are initiation phase, planing phase, execution phase, monitoring phase and closure phase (= project completion).

Budgeting model Before estimating the time and cost expenditure, it must be determined whether the estimation should be carried out using the top-down or bottom-up method. Top-down: Starting with 100 % (corresponds to the maximum possible costs / or time value), each phase is set in relation to the other phases. It is then estimated how much (in %) each phase contributes to the overall project. Bottom-up: At the beginning, the values for each phase are estimated separately and added up later.

Limits of the phase model Long-running, overlapping and / or cost-intensive phases generally require the creation of a work breakdown structure.

Targets
Unless the phases are precisely specified and the phase outcome is properly defined, it will be difficult to estimate costs and timeframes.

Budgeting model
Before an estimate is made, it is necessary to decide whether to use the top-down or bottom-up method.

Limitations of the phase model
Lengthy, overlapping and/ or cost-intensive phases generally cannot be implemented without a work breakdown structure.