As the final phase of the project, closeout confirms completion of project deliverables to the satisfaction of the project sponsor. All deliverables are finalized and formally transferred, and all documentation is signed off on, approved, and archived. The project management closeout phase is completed in tandem with, but is a separate process than, the formal closure process that the Office of Sponsored Projects performs in closing an award.
The Project Management Office (PMO) has designed a seven-step process that gives an opportunity to review and evaluate the project’s achievements and deficiencies, which is crucial for planning and executing successful projects in the future.
The PMO project closure process ensures that:
- All work has been completed according to the project plan and scope.
- All project management processes have been executed.
- The project has received final sign-off and approval from all parties.
The PMO project closure helps to avoid:
- Having final products or deliverables without dedicated support and resources.
- Failing to identify the team or individuals who will own and maintain the solution following final delivery.
- Creating liability issues resulting from incomplete payments, contracts, or deliverables.
