A project charter and a project plan are two of the most important documents that a project manager needs to create to ensure a project’s success. Both documents serve different purposes, but they are both essential in their own way.
In this blog post, we will compare and contrast the project charter Vs project plan and explain when to use each.
What is a Project Charter?
A project charter is a document that details the objectives, goals, and approach for a project. It is typically created at the beginning of a project and serves as a roadmap for the project team.
The charter should be concise and straightforward and include all stakeholders’ input. A well-crafted charter can help keep a project on track and prevent scope creep. Furthermore, you can use the charter can as a reference point throughout the project lifecycle.
Overall, a project charter is an essential tool for any project manager
Parts of a Project Charter
Several key components should be included in a project charter. These include the purpose and objectives of the project, a list of stakeholders, a description of deliverables and timelines, risks and assumptions, and any other relevant information about the project.
Additionally, relevant stakeholders should sign the charter to indicate their commitment to the project’s success.
What is a Project Plan?
A project plan is a document that sets out the detailed steps that will be taken to complete a project. It includes a schedule of activities, milestones, and deliverables, as well as a clear indication of who is responsible for each task.
A well-written project plan is essential for ensuring that a project stays on track and is completed on time. With a project plan, it can be easier to identify potential problems or roadblocks, leading to costly delays. In addition, a project plan can help keep all team members aligned and focused on the same goal.
By clearly outlining the steps to be taken to complete, a project plan helps ensure that everyone is working towards the same objective. The project plan can be in word or excel.You can download project plan template here
Parts of a Project Plan
Several different elements typically make up a project plan. These may include timelines, objectives, deliverables, budget requirements, risk assessments, work breakdown structures (WBSs), and resource allocation information. Other vital components can consist of stakeholder management plans and communication plans.
One of the most important aspects of a project plan is its schedule. It should indicate all key milestones and deadlines for the project, as well as specific tasks and responsibilities for each team member involved in the project.
The budget section of the plan is also crucial in a project plan. A project budget is an estimation of the total costs required to finish a project within a set time frame. This includes all anticipated costs for each stage of the project.
Finally, it is crucial to identify any potential risks or challenges associated with the project and to outline how they will be addressed. Check out examples of project plans for different industries here
What’s the Difference Between a Project Charter and a Project Plan?
A few key differences exist between a project charter and a project plan. A project charter sets the overall vision and scope for the project, while a project plan details the steps that need to be taken to achieve the project goals. The charter also defines the roles and responsibilities of all team members, as well as the resources that will be required.
The project plan, on the other hand, focuses on the timeline and budget for the project. It includes milestones and deliverables and outlines how these will be achieved within the set timeframe. While both documents are essential for ensuring the success of a project, they serve different purposes and should be used accordingly.
Role of a Project Manager in the Project Charter and a Project Plan
A project manager’s role is essential in the project charter and the project plan.
In the charter, the project manager is responsible for ensuring that all key stakeholders are aligned around the goals and objectives of the project, as well as defining any risks or potential roadblocks that may arise. The manager also helps identify any resources or support needed to complete the project successfully.
In a project plan, the primary role of a project manager is to lead and manage team members throughout the various stages of the project. It includes assigning tasks, monitoring progress, resolving conflicts, and addressing any issues or challenges. The manager must also maintain effective communication within the team and with other stakeholders to keep
A project charter and a project plan are two of the most important documents that a project manager needs to ensure a project’s success. Both documents serve different purposes, but they are both essential. We hope our comparison of the project charter and project plan will be beneficial for you to manage your next project better.