The purpose of the stabilization phase is to ensure that the targeted change is achieved and maintained. This enables the business benefits to be realized.
During this phase, the achievement of the targeted change is measured. For example, if the target is to reduce order-delivery lead time from 12 to 4 days, achievement of this target is measured. The target needs to be achieved consistently, on an on-going basis, not just once. Corrective actions are taken, if necessary.
From a change management perspective, the capability of the people to operate as planned is verified. Refresh training is given, if needed. Key project management documents like the project charter, executive summary and in particular, the business case are updated.
The outcome of the stabilization phase is the measured change that is achieved on an on-going basis and the business benefits that have started to flow in. When this is achieved, we are ready to start the project closing activities. This is Milestone M5: Change realized, readiness to close the project.
Steering group / business owner
Documents created in earlier phases are updated as defined in the document list, but no new steering group / business owner documents are created.
Project management
Documents created in earlier phases are updated as defined in the document list, but no new project management documents are created.
Change management
Documents created in earlier phases are updated as defined in the document list, but no new change management documents are created.