The controlled close of a project is as important as the controlled start. There must be a point when the objectives set out in the original and current versions of the Project Initiation Documentation and Project Plan are assessed in order to understand:
✔ Whether the objectives have been achieved
✔ How the project has deviated from its initial basis
✔ That the project has nothing more to contribute.
Without this approach, the project may never end; a project can become business as usual and the original focus on benefits will be lost.
Authorizing closure of the project is the last activity undertaken by the Project Board, prior to its own disbandment, and may require endorsement from corporate or programme management.
The Project Board may appoint Project Assurance to undertake some of the reviewing and assessing actions (e.g. inspecting the End Project Report to confirm it is accurate).
