Maximizing Benefits from IT Project Management

Chapter 5

The Systems Development Life Cycle—Planning

The first step envisaged in existing methodologies for information technology and communications is the planning step. Planning is an essential step before starting any project. It helps individuals and teams acquire the best understanding of the project in terms of the needs and expectations that justify its launch, in terms of the support and interest required from business managers, and in terms of the nature of the work to be pursued.

The purpose of this life cycle stage is to provide a framework in which to strategically place the project with regard to other candidate projects. This is done in order to select projects that will ultimately be approved and planned to support business ...