This project checklist lets you check, in just a few minutes, whether your project's foundations are solid enough before launch.
You're launching a project that matters for your business — and like any project, you want it to succeed.
But how do you know if you've really thought of everything?
In 20 years of managing complex projects, I've observed the same thing every time: projects don't go off track because people lack skills. They go off track because the foundations weren't properly laid at the start.
The good news: you can take stock in just a few minutes to check that your project is on solid footing, with this simple checklist — no jargon, no overthinking.
Project checklist: the 10 points to check
Ready? Grab your notebook, something to tick boxes with, and let's go.
Key #1: Your project aims to achieve specific objectives.
They're clear, defined, shared, achievable.
Key #2: Your project has an end date
A project isn't continuous improvement. It's something with a beginning and an end. You've identified an end date.
Key #3: You've defined a team to work on this project.
And roles and responsibilities are clear within the team.
Key #4: Your project has a budget attached to it.
It's the basics, but it's worth saying anyway: a project isn't a blank check.
Key #5: You've set a rhythm
Daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly… you have check-ins that pace everyone's progress.
Key #6: Your project has a specific decision-making body
Things don't always go as planned: you need a system in place for making decisions.
Key #7: You have a way to track everyone's schedule and tasks
It can range from an A4 sheet stuck on the fridge to highly specialized software, but there's a single place where all of it is recorded and tracked.
Key #8: You're managing risk
Every project carries risks. No burying your head in the sand: a risk needs to be actively managed.
Key #9: You've planned for change management
Communicating about what's going to change is essential to bring as many people on board as possible.
Key #10: You've planned a project closeout review to draw conclusions
You can call it a debrief, a post-mortem, lessons learned… if the project mattered to you, these reviews are worth doing.
This project checklist provides a first level of diagnosis to flag warning signs before they turn into real obstacles.
In summary
A well-framed project means: clear objectives, an end date, a team with defined roles, a budget, a rhythm, governance, a tracking tool, risk management, a change plan, and a planned review.
If you've got all 10 — well done. Your project is on solid footing.
If you're missing one — that's often where things get stuck.
If you want to know more, stay tuned: detailed articles on each key are coming this fall!
Need an outside perspective?
That's exactly what I offer with the project audit: a quick diagnosis to identify what's missing and give you concrete recommendations.
👉 Discover the Project Audit offer
I hope this post was helpful, and if you have any questions… feel free to get in touch!