What you need to do

Estimate the time required for the project, delivery of operational services/works and transition to the new operational state. Include key milestones and allow appropriate margins for any delays if the delivery date is critical. Where a commitment has been made to deliver by a specific date (e.g. existing contract expiry) check that this can be achieved.

Points to consider

Where timeframes are critical, you may need to make trade-offs on time (e.g. lengthening the time to deliver), on cost (e.g. paying more for faster delivery) or on functionality (e.g. making do with less). If compromises have to be made, check that they are acceptable to all major stakeholders.

Where the project involves a major procurement pay particular attention to ensure that the work can be done within EC timetables if these apply.