2 CHAPTER 2 PROJECT LIFE CYCLE AND ORGANIZATION Projects and project management take place in an environment that is broader than that of the project itself. Understanding this broader context helps ensure that work is carried out in alignment with the goals of the enterprise and managed in accordance with the established practice methodologies of the organization. This chapter describes the basic structure of a project as well as other important high-level considerations including how projects impact ongoing operational work, the influence of stakeholders beyond the immediate project team, and how organizational structure affects the way the project is staffed, managed, and executed. The following major sections are discussed: 2.1 The Project Life Cycle--Overview 2.2 Projects vs. Operational Work 2.3 Stakeholders 2.4 Organizational Influences on Project Management