tenstep

TenStep is a project management methodology and training program designed to provide a structured, repeatable lifecycle for managing projects. It is marketed as a framework that organizations can adopt to standardize project processes and improve delivery predictability.

Developed by TenStep, Inc., the framework is built around a ten-phase lifecycle that covers initiation through closure. Each phase defines objectives, roles, inputs, and outputs, with an emphasis on governance, scope management, planning, execution, monitoring, risk, quality, communications, and change control. The framework encourages the use of formal artifacts such as a project charter, a detailed project plan, risk registers, status reports, change requests, and a lessons-learned repository.

TenStep is used across industries, particularly in information technology, engineering, and manufacturing. It is often taught through training courses and may include certification for practitioners. In practice, organizations may tailor TenStep to their own project governance needs and align it with other standards such as PMBOK or ISO 21500.

Evaluation of TenStep varies; proponents cite its clarity and structured approach, while critics note that it is less widely adopted than some competitors and can be seen as more prescriptive. As with other project management frameworks, success depends on organizational buy-in, proper tailoring, and continued process improvement.

Related topics include project management methodologies, PMBOK, PRINCE2, and organizational process improvement.