Project Review: Lifecycle Architecture Milestone

At the end of the Elaboration phase is the Lifecycle Architecture Milestone. At this point, you examine the detailed system objectives and scope, the choice of architecture, and the resolution of the major risks. If the project fails to reach this milestone, it might be aborted or at least seriously reconsidered, and it's better for this to happen early, rather than late. The iterative approach, in combination with this milestone, forces such a decision.

The Lifecycle Architecture Milestone review includes the following evaluation criteria:

• Are the product Vision and requirements stable?

• Is the architecture stable?

• Are the key approaches to be used in testing and evaluation proven?

• Have testing and evaluation of executable prototypes demonstrated that the major risk elements have been addressed and resolved?

• Are the iteration plans for Construction of sufficient detail and fidelity to allow the work to proceed?

• Are the iteration plans for the Construction phase supported by credible estimates?

• Do all stakeholders agree that the current Vision, as defined in the Vision Document, can be met if the current plan is executed to develop the complete system in the context of the current architecture?

• Are actual resource expenditures versus planned expenditures acceptable?

For large projects, this review may take the form of a one-day assessment, or it may be performed over several days. Smaller projects may do the assessment in a one- hour team meeting.