Closing and Transition Management
2
Closure Types
Administrative closure and contract closure
1
Sign-Off
Formal acceptance from the customer
OPA
Updates
Lessons learned rolled into organizational process assets
the baton passes · don't drop it at the line
Closure Timeline
how to read this
- › Closure is a sequence, not a checkbox. You can't release resources before the work is formally accepted.
- › Contracts close before the project does. Any open procurement left dangling becomes a future audit finding.
- › The handoff to operations is the last step — and the most skipped. No runbook, no monitoring, no owner = project failed at the finish line.
- › Lessons learned aren't a box to tick. They update organizational process assets so the next project starts smarter.
Exam Traps
Contract closure before administrative closure
Procurement contracts close before the project administratively closes. Unclosed contracts can derail the final closure.
Formal acceptance is required
A casual email from the customer is not acceptance. Get a documented, signed sign-off before declaring closure.
Benefits realization extends past closing
The PM closes the project. Business value is often measured months later. Hand off the benefits realization plan.
Get it in writing
Formal acceptance is documented and signed. No handshake closures.
Do not forget contracts
Every open procurement must close before the project does. Do not leave loose ends.
The customer inspects the house, signs the closing papers. That is formal acceptance.
Pay the movers, cancel the rental truck, return the keys. Procurements are closed.
Lessons learned, warranties, and receipts in a binder for the new homeowner. Knowledge transfer.
Recognize the team. Transitions are an opportunity to thank people.
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