Project Charter Example for Every Project Manager

A project charter is one of many project management forms used in the planning stage of project management – and one of the most crucial documents. Proper construction of a Project Charter can help ensure the success of any project and, likewise, taking shortcuts in the preparation of this all-important document can subject your project to numerous pitfalls and unnecessary hold-ups. So, what should you be sure to include in this form?

Every project charter should consist of at least three primary components:

• Project Overview Section
• Project Approach Section
• Project Approval Section

Depending on the nature of your project, additional sections may be required, but we'll restrict ourselves to examining these three components in this article. The following guidelines will take a closer look at the items that should be detailed in each of these sections and give a brief explanation of why that information is needed.

1. Identification: Give the formal name of the project as well as any other terms that might be used to identify the project and the primary groups that will be involved with it. With this consistent terminology, it will be easier for all parties involved – such as the project team, stakeholders, and end users – to discuss and work on the project.
2. Project Background: Give any background information that will help explain how the project came to be.
3. Purpose / Business Need: Explain why the project is needed. If applicable, include details of why existing tools or products are inadequate.
4. Project Scope: Define the project scope, being careful to note boundaries and limitations. The project scope should be clearly detailed so that all parties involved are very aware of exactly what the project includes as well as what it doesn't.
5. Project Objectives: Using appropriate business terminology, state all objectives for the project. Be sure to include the project's intended purpose in language that is both concise and explanatory.
6. Sponsorship & Ownership: Provide a list of names identifying the major parties involved in the project, such as project sponsors, stakeholders, and eventual project owners. In addition, be sure to identify the role of each individual listed so that there is no confusion concerning responsibilities later down the line.
7. References: List any related documents or other resources that could be helpful in understanding various aspects of the project, such as the scope and business need.
8. Terminology: Provide a basic, but complete, glossary that defines special terms related to the project. If there are any key terms, phrases, or acronyms that might prove to be confusing or new to anyone related to the project, be sure to include them in this section.

Continue on to the next page for information on what should be included in the Project Approach and Approval sections of a Project Charter.