Overview: Closing Process Group
The Closing Process Group finalizes all project activities across all knowledge areas to formally complete the project, phase, or contract. It ensures that the work is complete, approved, documented, and archived, and that all contractual and administrative matters are resolved.
Purpose
The Closing Process Group is responsible for:
- Verifying project deliverables have been accepted
- Ensuring contractual obligations are fulfilled
- Releasing project resources
- Capturing lessons learned
- Archiving project documentation
- Formally closing out all activities and communications
It confirms that the project is complete, evaluated, and ready for handoff or closure.
Key Characteristics
- Occurs once per project or phase
- Requires stakeholder sign-off and acceptance
- Focuses on documentation, audits, and administrative closure
- Involves team demobilization and transition of ownership
Primary Process
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Close Project or Phase | Finalizes all project or phase activities, confirms completion, and conducts post-project evaluations. |
Common Inputs
- Project Management Plan
- Accepted Deliverables
- Procurement Documentation
- Organizational Process Assets (OPAs)
- Business Documents (e.g., business case, benefits management plan)
Typical Outputs
- Final Product, Service, or Result Transition
- Final Report
- Updates to OPAs (e.g., lessons learned, historical databases)
- Formal Acceptance Documentation
- Contract Closure and Payment Completion
Why the Closing Process Group Matters
- Ensures Formal Completion – Verifies that all work has been done and all requirements met.
- Captures Value – Documents knowledge, performance data, and stakeholder feedback.
- Releases Resources – Frees team members, vendors, and tools for other work.
- Strengthens Organizational Learning – Updates internal systems with lessons and artifacts to support future projects.
Related Knowledge Areas
- Integration Management – Close Project or Phase
- Procurement Management – Contract closure and vendor settlement