Construction	Online Guide
		Initiate and Align the Team	Process
Activity:	Review Project Description		Revision July 1, 2005
Description:	The Project Description is a formal statement that defines the purpose and need for the “product” or “outcome” that the project is intended to produce. Region/Organization Management provides the Project Description (as defined on the WSDOT Project Definition form) to the Project Manager. It is used to establish a common purpose and need of both the project and the Construction Phase among the members of the project team.
Inputs:	· Project Definition
Tools:	Ø· Initiate and Align Worksheet Template Ø· Sample Initiate and Align Worksheet
Steps:	1. The Project Manager receives the Project Description from Region/Organization Management and: · Reviews the needs the project is intended to fill. · Reviews the goals, products, and outcomes of the project.
	2. The Project Manager uses his/her understanding of the Project Description to begin to identify team members.
	3. The Project Manager reviews the Construction Phase Project Description and preliminary team member identification with Region/Organization Management.
	4. The Project Manager or designee enters the Construction Phase Project Description on the Initiate and Align Worksheet.
	5. The Project Manager (a) assembles the project team, (b) reviews the Project Description, Team Mission/Assignments, Major Milestones, and Boundaries provided by Region/Organization Management, and (c) begins Team Alignment activities.
Products:	· Completed Project Description
Guidelines:	The Project Description is a statement of the reasons why the project or phase is being undertaken; it acts as the foundation for all further project planning and actions. A Project Description generally includes the following characteristics: · It is a statement of the desired condition at the end of the project; hence, it describes an “end result” and should be capable of being seen. · It is a “project” objective, not the duty of an individual. · It establishes a common goal toward which all project activities and efforts strive. · It is expressed in positive terms; it is a positive end result.