There are a number of common activities that should exist during the Quality Planning Process.

Objectives/Goals Planning

Setting the project objectives/goals is an important component of the planning cycle. Goals and objectives should be measurable and achievable. If goals are not measurable it will be difficult to determine whether or not the project is successful. If the goals are not achievable the assigned staff are in a “no win” situation. However, some management philosophies believe in using stretch goals to push people to achieve a higher level of performance. Specifically, this activity should address:

Project objectives and goals expressed in quantitative terms

Any qualifications for objectives that can impact the sequence of work, or alternative strategies can be determined

Quality and productivity goals

Assumptions/Potential Planning

This planning activity identifies those probable developments that will affect the ability to achieve the project objectives. These developments should be as specific as possible in terms of how much and when. In this activity the planners are trying to describe what will happen in the next month or years so that implementation can seize any new opportunities that may develop. Specifically, this planning activity should address:

Assumptions which if not correct will impact the success of the project

Current opportunities received from implementing the project

How future opportunities will be identified during the implementation and operation timeframe of the project.