Project identification is the initial phase in the project life cycle focused on recognizing and selecting a project to initiate. It involves brainstorming, analyzing, and evaluating ideas to identify a need, problem, or opportunity that justifies starting a project
. This process results in documenting the project concept objectively, often culminating in a project proposal or business case that outlines goals, costs, timelines, and key activities
Key Aspects of Project Identification:
- Purpose: To discover new, worthwhile projects aligned with organizational goals and values, ensuring they address real problems or opportunities
- Process: Includes idea generation, feasibility and viability studies, and risk assessment to confirm the project’s practicality and alignment with strategic priorities
- Outcomes: A clear project brief or proposal that defines objectives, scope, critical success factors, KPIs, resource needs, and potential risks
Benefits of Project Identification:
- Helps clarify project objectives and scope.
- Identifies critical success factors and KPIs for measuring progress.
- Reduces risks by early detection and mitigation.
- Optimizes resource allocation.
- Engages and aligns stakeholders and team members
In summary, project identification is a foundational step that ensures projects are viable, strategically relevant, and well-planned before formal initiation and execution begin
