Major Process Groups in WWPMM
In WWPMM, phases are referred to as process groups. The major process groups are Defining, Planning, Executing/Controlling, and Closing the project. Depending on the project, it might be appropriate to apply all the WWPMM process groups within one individual project phase. An example would be using the Defining, Planning, Executing/Controlling, and Closing process groups were all used for one of the IPD phases.
- Defining. In this process group, the objectives of the project are agreed upon, the scope of the project is established, the initial organization is defined, responsibilities are assigned, and the assessment of situational factors is documented.
- Planning. In this process group, detailed work and risk management plans are developed, the organization is confirmed, staff assignments are made, and the budget and time frame are agreed upon. No significant amount of resources is expended on the project (in other words, execution does not begin) until clear plans are in place and authorization to proceed has been received at the end of this phase.
- Executing/Controlling. In this process group, the plans and controls are used to execute and manage the project as project development and delivery work is performed. As work proceeds, plans are expanded or refined as necessary.
- Closing. In this process group, the sponsor agrees to close the project, the project is closed, and the project evaluation report is produced. This report includes lessons learned that can be applied to future projects to increase their probability of success.