A new year and new projects. Here are things you can do to start a new project on the right track.

#1 - Understand the expectations for the project. This is not just scope but what the sponsor & users really expect.

#2  - Validate the scope. Charters are written to get projects approved. Verify that each scope item is still valid.

#3 - Verify the project is approved to start. This sounds silly but selection and approval to start are different.

#4 - Make sure the budget has been authorized and realeased for the project to start spending.

#5 - Create a two week inititiation plan that includes the kick off mtg, sponsor mtg etc. This could be a punch list

#6 - Identify and begin to fill key project roles. Tech lead, SMEs, QA lead, BA should be among first roles filled.

#7 - Meet with the project sponsor to discuss the project and his / her role throughout the project.

#8 - Do a sanity check on the technology and methodology to be used. Does it make sense? Is it new?

#9 - Identify major dependencies including other projects, technology purchases, and vendor delivery.

#10 - Plan the kick off meeting. Don't just hold the meeting. Have an agenda, key talking points, sponsor statement ready

These 10 steps are in addition to the normal initiation tasks. These are important because they address areas that often negatively impact the project.