Project Brief
The Project Brief is generally the first document in any project. It is produced when the project is initiated by the Project Sponsor following a Project Proposal stage. It should establish for the project manager:-
- What the project is to achieve,
- by when, and
- within what resources.
A typical format is as follows with more details below:
Project Brief
Part A
1. Title of project,
2. Background to the Project
3. Terms of Reference & Key Objectives
4. Benefits & Costs Analysis in Outline
5. Risk Assessment in Outline
Part B
6. Initial Thoughts on Project Plan (organisation, timescales, resources, costs)
Project Brief
Part A
1. Title of project,
Together with the names of the Project Manager and Project Sponsor.
2. Background to the Project
A brief description of the background to the project including how the project came about, what the project is about, why we are undertaking the project, and what in very broad terms the outcome of the project will be to the organisation.
3. Terms of Reference & Key Objectives
First, a brief (5 to 10 line) overall definition and description of the project and its aims including some reference to likely timescales, budget and resources, and what the project will aim to deliver. Then a statement of what the project is to deliver - the key objectives. The latter is often done as a listing the main stakeholders of the project with a statement for each of what the project will aim to deliver to them.
4. Benefits & Costs Analysis in Outline
A brief statement of the main benefits to be gained from undertaking this project and the main costs which will be incurred and which need to be controlled and contained. Not necessarily a full cost-benefit analysis but a brief overview.
5. Risk Assessment in Outline
The main risks - implementation issues which may delay the project. The priority ones should be identified with suggestions as to how they could be averted or their impact lessened.
Part B
6. Initial Thoughts on Project Planning & Organisation
- Project Organisation - Outline description
A description of the overall project organisation, in particular the names of the individuals or groups who should be the project sponsor, and the individual who will be the project manager - Timescales
A broad estimate of timings, in particular completion date and any other key milestones - Resources likely to be needed
The resources, money and peoples time, which we will need to invest to carry out this project. - Costs
A broad estimate of overall costs to be incurred and the required budget.