With the decision on project initiation release, the project is established and it starts with the initiation phase .

With the project initiation release, the project formally begins. An initial clarification is undertaken whether the envisaged solution will be pursued.

In the order placement, the points are clarified that are important for successful project initiation.

The decision on project initiation release is the first regular decision in the project, with which the project is formally established. The decision is made solely by the project sponsor on behalf of the core organization, possibly within the framework of an existing portfolio. The decision is made that the envisaged project should be checked for project suitability and worthiness as part of the initiation phase.

The project sponsor assigns a project manager to draw up the project initiation order, which is still outside the possible future project structure. The project manager does not necessarily have to take over project management for the following phases. As long as the decision on project initiation release has not been made, the project is still non-existent.

The project organization for the initiation phase, consisting at least of the project sponsor and the project manager/user representative (in the same person) is put into effect. The resources required for initiation are released.

1. Project initiation release checklist
2. Project initiation order

1. Outside the possible future project structure:
2. 1. Add further criteria to the project initiation release checklist.
   2. The project sponsor checks the project initiation order with the project initiation release checklist.
   3. Ensure resources for the initiation phase.
3. As part of the project:
4. 1. Make formal decision on project initiation release.
   2. Sign project initiation order.
   3. Release resources for the initiation phase.
   4. Inform the core organization and enter projects in any existing portfolio.

1. Project initiation release checklist
2. Project initiation order
3. Project initiation release milestone
4. List of steering project decisions