How a project is structured over time. You need to recognise linear (waterfall), iterative and hybrid life cycles, know the phases of a linear one, and understand where benefits realisation sits relative to the project.
What life cycles covers in the PFQ
- Linear, iterative and hybrid life cycles and when each suits
- The phases of a linear life cycle: concept, definition, deployment, transition
- Decision gates between phases
- The extended life cycle and where benefits are realised
- Why an iterative approach suits uncertain requirements
Where candidates lose marks
Confusing the project life cycle with the extended (benefits) life cycle — the project ends before most benefits land.
Assuming iterative means 'no planning' — it plans in shorter horizons.
Treating a decision gate as a status update rather than an authorisation point.
Free, timed, exam-style questions across all ten PFQ topics — with an explanation for every answer and a per-topic breakdown.
Start a free practice testLife cycles questions, answered
What is the difference between a linear and an iterative life cycle?
A linear (waterfall) life cycle runs in sequence through defined phases and suits stable, well-understood requirements. An iterative life cycle delivers in short repeating cycles and suits uncertain or evolving requirements.
Where does benefits realisation sit in the life cycle?
Mostly after the project has closed. The project life cycle ends when the outputs are handed over; the extended life cycle continues into operations, where the benefits are actually realised.
The other nine topics
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