Definition
Phase gates are critical checkpoints within a project or development lifecycle, serving as decision points to evaluate progress and determine if a project should proceed to the next stage. These gates involve reviewing deliverables, assessing risks, and confirming that all objectives for the current phase have been met before authorizing advancement. Implementing phase gates ensures that projects remain on track, within budget, and aligned with strategic goals, preventing costly rework or outright failure. For instance, a software development project might have a gate after the design phase, requiring stakeholder approval of the architecture before coding begins. This differs from simple status updates, as phase gates carry the authority to halt or redirect a project. Concepts related to phase gates often appear in project management certifications like CAPM and PMP.