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Project Charter Template

Updated: Apr 26

The Project Charter template defines a project's vision, scope, objectives, and overall direction.



The Project Charter serves as the foundational document for a project, defining its vision, scope, objectives, and overall direction. It grants the project manager the authority to use organisational resources and acts as a contract between the sponsor and the project team.



Project charter example


Key Components

Leadership & Roles

  • Sponsor: Provides sponsorship and high-level oversight.

  • Project Manager: Leads the project and has authority over organisational resources.

Objectives & Justification

  • Purpose & Justification: Explains why the project is initiated, including problems or opportunities it aims to address.

  • Objectives: Listed as OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) to provide measurable success criteria.

Scope & Constraints

  • In Scope: Specifies what the project includes.

  • Out of Scope: Outlines what is not part of the project.

  • Constraints: Lists known limitations like time, budget, or resources.

Assumptions & Risks

  • Assumptions: Outlines planning and execution premises.

  • Key Risks: Describes the likelihood and mitigation strategies for potential risks.

Budget

  • Project Budget: Details the cost structures for various phases and types of expenses.

Stakeholders

  • Stakeholder List: Specifies the roles and interests of key stakeholders involved in the project.

Project Timeline

  • Project Phases: Describes key activities and timelines across different phases like Initiation, Planning, Execution, Monitoring & Control, and Closure.

Approvals

  • Outlines the method for obtaining approvals from critical stakeholders such as the project sponsor.


How to Use

The Project Charter template is a guiding document for decision-making throughout the project life cycle.


It should be referenced by all stakeholders to ensure that everyone has a shared understanding of the project's purpose, scope, and success criteria.



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About the author

Alan Parker is an IT consultant and project manager who specialises in IT governance, process implementation, and project delivery. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Alan believes that simplifying complex challenges and avoiding pitfalls are key to successful IT management. He has led various IT teams and projects across multiple organisations, continually honing his expertise in ITIL and PRINCE2 methodologies. Alan holds a degree in Information Systems and has been recognised for his ability to deliver reliable and effective IT solutions. He lives in Berkshire, UK, with his family.

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