In the traditional approach, the phase release decision creates the prerequisite for the work in the next phase.

The phase outcomes are checked and accepted or rejected. The current phase is completed and the next project phase is released, as are any resources needed. If the defined project objectives cannot be achieved, the project is terminated (see Decide on project discontinuation).

At the end of the current project phase, the phase report is approved and a decision is made on the conclusion of the phase. The sponsor then decides on the release of the next phase.

Before phase release, the phase report and the project management plan are compared with the overarching strategies and objectives of the core organization. New findings are taken into account.

Adjustments to the project management plan and project organization are decided and put into effect.

If the project has specific controlling and QA/risk management bodies, they prepare a report for the project sponsor.

1. Project management plan
2. Project status report
3. Phase report

1. Add further release criteria to the phase release checklist.
2. Critically review objectives, feasibility, and benefits of the envisaged solution based on new findings and align with the core organization's objectives.
3. Check whether overarching strategies, standards, and requirements have been adhered to and whether confirmations from the competent bodies are available.
4. Ensure that the necessary resources (human, financial, infrastructure, knowledge and experience) are available in a timely and sufficient manner for the remainder of the project.
5. Coordinate the decision in the core organization.
6. Review and approve or reject phase report, project management plan, and phase-specific outcomes.
7. Make formal decision on phase release or reject outcomes.
8. If the decision is positive:
9. 1. Release resources for the next project phase.
   2. Inform those affected about the decision.
10. If the set objectives cannot be achieved:
11. 1. Either determine corrective measures, or
    2. Decide on project discontinuation and request termination of the project.

1. Phase release checklist
2. QA and risk report
3. Phase release milestone
4. List of steering project decisions