Initiating vs. Issuing

Attribute	Initiating	Issuing
Definition	Starting or commencing something	Giving out or sending something
Responsibility	Usually falls on the person or entity starting the action	Usually falls on the person or entity sending out the item
Timing	Occurs at the beginning of a process or action	Occurs when something needs to be distributed or sent out
Focus	On starting or initiating a process	On distributing or sending out something

Definition

Initiating and issuing are two terms commonly used in project management. Initiating refers to the process of formally authorizing a project or phase, while issuing involves distributing information or deliverables to stakeholders. Both are crucial steps in the project management process, but they serve different purposes.

Key Attributes of Initiating

Initiating a project involves defining the project at a high level and obtaining approval to proceed. This phase typically includes creating a project charter, identifying stakeholders, and establishing the project management team. It sets the foundation for the project and ensures that everyone is aligned on the project's objectives and scope.

During the initiating phase, project managers work closely with stakeholders to gather requirements and define the project's goals. This phase is critical for setting expectations and ensuring that the project is feasible and aligned with the organization's strategic objectives. It also involves identifying risks and constraints that may impact the project's success.

Initiating a project requires strong leadership and communication skills. Project managers must be able to effectively communicate the project's vision and objectives to stakeholders and secure their buy-in. They must also be able to navigate organizational politics and secure the necessary resources and support to move the project forward.

One of the key outputs of the initiating phase is the project charter, which formally authorizes the project and provides the project manager with the authority to allocate resources and make decisions. The project charter serves as a roadmap for the project and outlines the project's objectives, scope, deliverables, and constraints.

Overall, initiating is a critical phase in the project management process that sets the stage for the project's success. It involves defining the project, obtaining approval to proceed, and establishing the project management team and governance structure.

Key Attributes of Issuing

Issuing, on the other hand, involves distributing information or deliverables to stakeholders. This can include project status updates, reports, deliverables, or any other information that stakeholders need to be informed about. Issuing is a key communication activity that ensures stakeholders are kept informed and engaged throughout the project.

During the issuing phase, project managers must ensure that information is distributed in a timely and accurate manner. This may involve creating and distributing project status reports, meeting minutes, or other project documentation. Effective communication is essential to keep stakeholders informed and engaged in the project.

Issuing also involves managing stakeholder expectations and addressing any concerns or issues that may arise. Project managers must be proactive in communicating with stakeholders and addressing any issues that may impact the project's success. This may involve holding regular meetings, providing updates, and addressing any questions or concerns that stakeholders may have.

One of the key outputs of the issuing phase is the distribution of project deliverables. Project managers must ensure that deliverables are completed on time and within budget and that they meet the project's quality standards. Issuing deliverables involves obtaining approval from stakeholders and ensuring that they are satisfied with the results.

Overall, issuing is a critical communication activity in the project management process that ensures stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the project. It involves distributing information, reports, and deliverables to stakeholders in a timely and accurate manner to keep them informed and engaged in the project.

Comparison

While initiating and issuing are both important phases in the project management process, they serve different purposes. Initiating focuses on defining the project, obtaining approval to proceed, and establishing the project management team and governance structure. Issuing, on the other hand, involves distributing information, reports, and deliverables to stakeholders to keep them informed and engaged in the project.

Initiating is more about setting the foundation for the project and ensuring that everyone is aligned on the project's objectives and scope. It involves defining the project, obtaining approval to proceed, and establishing the project management team and governance structure. Initiating is critical for setting expectations and ensuring that the project is feasible and aligned with the organization's strategic objectives.

Issuing, on the other hand, is more about communication and keeping stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the project. It involves distributing information, reports, and deliverables to stakeholders in a timely and accurate manner. Issuing is critical for managing stakeholder expectations, addressing concerns, and ensuring that stakeholders are satisfied with the project's progress and results.

Overall, both initiating and issuing are essential phases in the project management process that contribute to the project's success. Initiating sets the foundation for the project and ensures that everyone is aligned on the project's objectives and scope, while issuing keeps stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the project by distributing information, reports, and deliverables in a timely and accurate manner.

By understanding the key attributes of initiating and issuing, project managers can effectively navigate these phases and ensure the success of their projects. Initiating and issuing are complementary activities that work together to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders.