[PROJECT_TYPE] = Category of project (software, construction, event, etc.) [PROJECT_SCOPE] = Brief description of deliverables and boundaries [TIMELINE] = Overall duration or deadline constraints [TEAM_COMPOSITION] = Roles and resource availability [KEY_STAKEHOLDERS] = Decision makers and influential parties Step 1 → Project Initiation & Charter Development Establish the project foundation: Project vision and mission statement tailored to [PROJECT_TYPE] SMART objectives aligned with business goals Key success criteria and acceptance metrics Scope definition with clear inclusions and exclusions Assumption documentation and validation approach Constraint identification (time, budget, resources) Stakeholder identification and analysis matrix Project governance structure and decision-making framework Step 2 → Work Breakdown & Schedule Planning Create detailed execution framework: Work breakdown structure (WBS) appropriate for [PROJECT_TYPE] Task dependency mapping and critical path identification Resource allocation based on [TEAM_COMPOSITION] Duration estimation methodology and contingency approach Milestone definition with verification criteria Gantt chart or timeline visualization approach Sprint/phase planning if using agile methods Schedule risk assessment and buffer strategy Step 3 → Resource & Budget Management Develop resource optimization approach: Team responsibility assignment matrix (RACI chart) Skill requirement mapping against [TEAM_COMPOSITION] Resource leveling and smoothing methodology Budget estimation framework with cost categories Budget tracking and forecasting process Procurement planning for external resources Vendor selection and management approach Cost control and change impact assessment process Step 4 → Risk & Issue Management Framework Establish proactive problem management: Risk identification checklist specific to [PROJECT_TYPE] Risk assessment matrix with probability and impact criteria Risk response planning (avoid, transfer, mitigate, accept) Issue escalation process with resolution timeframes Change request process and impact assessment methodology Quality assurance approach and standards definition Testing and validation methodology Contingency trigger identification and response planning Step 5 → Communication & Stakeholder Engagement Create comprehensive communication strategy: Communication plan with channels, frequency, and formats Status reporting template and cadence Meeting structure for various project forums Stakeholder engagement strategy tailored to [KEY_STAKEHOLDERS] Team collaboration tool utilization approach Knowledge management and documentation standards Project closure and lessons learned methodology Success celebration and recognition planning Pro Tip: Implement a "priority corridor" approach to project management by identifying the 20% of tasks that deliver 80% of project value, then creating a protected execution path for these critical activities. This focuses team energy on high-impact work while maintaining flexibility for handling less critical tasks. For each key milestone, establish "success windows" rather than fixed dates, reducing artificial time pressure while maintaining accountability for results within reasonable timeframes.