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Project Mandate Checklist

Checklist provides a clear foundation for defining and justifying a project, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and securing stakeholder buy-in.

Project Mandate Checklist

Project Mandate Checklist to ensure a well-defined project foundation:


1. Define Project Purpose
  • Clearly state the reason for initiating the project.

  • Align the purpose with organizational goals and strategies.

  • Ensure the project addresses a specific need or problem.


2. Outline Project Objectives
  • Identify measurable and achievable project goals.

  • Ensure objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART).

  • Confirm objectives support the overall project purpose.


3. Identify Key Stakeholders
  • List all stakeholders who will be impacted by or have an interest in the project.

  • Define the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder.

  • Ensure early stakeholder engagement to align expectations.


4. Establish Project Scope
  • Define the boundaries of the project, including what is in-scope and out-of-scope.

  • Clarify deliverables and expected outcomes.

  • Ensure scope aligns with project objectives.


5. Define Project Benefits
  • Identify the expected benefits or value the project will deliver.

  • Ensure benefits are realistic, measurable, and achievable.

  • Include both short-term and long-term benefits.


6. Define Constraints and Assumptions
  • List project constraints (e.g., budget, time, resources).

  • Identify key assumptions made during project planning.

  • Validate that assumptions are realistic and manageable.


7. Outline High-Level Risks
  • Identify potential risks that could affect the project.

  • Include external factors (e.g., market, legal, environmental risks).

  • Define mitigation strategies for major risks.


8. Set Project Timeline
  • Establish a high-level project schedule or timeline.

  • Ensure milestones are clearly defined and realistic.

  • Include major phases or stages of the project.


9. Define Budget Estimate
  • Provide an initial estimate of the project’s budget.

  • Include high-level cost estimates for resources, equipment, and other expenses.

  • Ensure the budget is aligned with the scope and objectives.


10. Gain Formal Approval
  • Obtain formal approval from key stakeholders and decision-makers.

  • Ensure alignment with organizational leadership and governance processes.

  • Document all approvals in writing for accountability.


This checklist provides a clear foundation for defining and justifying a project, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and securing stakeholder buy-in.



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