Definition
A kickoff is the formal initiation meeting for a project or a significant phase of a project. It serves to align all stakeholders on project goals, scope, timelines, roles, and responsibilities. During a kickoff, the project manager typically outlines the project plan, introduces the team, and establishes communication protocols. This meeting is crucial for setting expectations and ensuring everyone understands their part in achieving the project's objectives. For instance, a software development team might hold a kickoff before starting a new feature build to define user stories and acceptance criteria. It is distinct from a status update, which occurs periodically throughout the project. Understanding kickoffs is fundamental for project management roles and appears on exams like CAPM and PMP.