> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://urd.gitbook.io/compass/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://urd.gitbook.io/compass/the-project-cycle-and-meal/the-project-cycle.md).

# The Project Cycle

Officers, workers, volunteers, managers, donors, advisors, consultants, and evaluators can organise their contributions around the six phases of the project cycle proposed by COMPASS.

It is **important** to note that these phases are indicative and adaptable. Project cycle management remains flexible, as phases may overlap, and the investment for each phase should be proportional to the context, risks, and available capacity.

<figure><img src="https://703690093-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FjVZ7GutuuOfKVB2ccnej%2Fuploads%2Frl5VUy1M3srnvhav7fBq%2FPCMdetailed.png?alt=media&amp;token=f0d8c354-8443-430c-8de0-a994e983e697" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Click the buttons below to go to each phase:

#### <a href="/compass/implementing/preliminary-phase.md" class="button primary">Preliminary phase</a>=⇒ <mark style="color:red;">Through simple questions, this first phase leads to the decision to conduct an initial assessment or not</mark>

#### <a href="/compass/implementing/initial-assessment.md" class="button primary">Initial Assessment</a> =⇒ <mark style="color:blue;">In this phase, all necessary information is collected to (a) determine whether to design a project and (b) create the project design.</mark>

#### <a href="/compass/implementing/design.md" class="button primary">Design</a>=⇒ <mark style="color:green;">Here, a relevant project strategy is developed.</mark>

#### <a href="/compass/implementing/launch.md" class="button primary">Launch</a>=⇒ <mark style="color:$success;">This phase focuses on creating all necessary conditions for the optimal implementation of project activities.</mark>

#### <a href="/compass/implementing/implementation-and-monitoring.md" class="button primary">Implementation and Monitoring</a> =⇒ <mark style="color:$warning;">The goal of this phase is to ensure that planned activities are executed effectively and achieve the intended results for communities and individuals affected by crises and in situation of vulnerability.</mark>

#### <a href="/compass/implementing/closure.md" class="button primary">Closure</a>=⇒ <mark style="color:purple;">In the final phase, the project comes to an end with two possible outcomes: continuation (in adapted forms) or termination.</mark>

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### <mark style="color:blue;">**Checklist**</mark>

You can consult the good practices checklist developed by CHS commitment during the implementation phase online by clicking the buttons, or you can download the PDF file below, available in English, French, Spanish and an accessible version.

{% file src="/files/u27lQ27MDfp5qA8EzZPa" %}