How to carry out a preliminary study ?

Carrying out a pre-project study is essential to better clarify the project's aims and objectives, determine its scope, assess the resources required and plan deadlines, as well as identify and take into account the risks even before implementation begins. The pre-project study thus makes it possible to assess the feasibility of the project in the context of the organization... provided you know how to go about it! Would you like to develop your strategic and managerial project management skills? Take a look at our Business Project Management Master's program, and put your skills to work in real-life situations.

Definition of the pre-project study

There are all kinds of pre-project studies, especially in fields such as architecture, where the design of a building begins with a thorough assessment of needs and constraints. 

However, in the business world, the preliminary study takes on a particular dimension, focusing on the viability and potential of a project. 

A pre-project study, in the entrepreneurial context, is an analytical process that enables us to evaluate an idea or concept before embarking on its realization. Its aim is to answer a number of key questions: Is the project feasible? What are the financial, human and technical stakes? 

Is there a demand for the product or service? This stage is crucial, as it enables us to identify the opportunities and risks associated with a project. 

By taking the time to examine these elements, companies can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that their resources are mobilized effectively. 

The pre-project study then becomes a strategic tool to guide decision-making and direct future actions. So, understanding what a pre-project study entails is fundamental for any company wishing to embark on a new project, whether this involves launching a product, opening up a new market or improving an existing service.

The key stages of a pre-project study

To carry out an effective pre-project study, you need to follow several key steps that will enable you to analyze the proposed idea or concept in depth.

Stage 1: Analysis of the idea or concept

This first step involves clarifying and defining the initial idea. Asking the right questions is crucial. Evaluating the project's objectives enables us to identify the expected results and targeted benefits. The preliminary design stage (APS) outlines the idea, assesses its feasibility and determines overall requirements, without going into detail. The main purpose of this document is to validate the interest of the project and to decide whether or not to pursue the analysis.

Step 2: Market research

Market research is a crucial step in understanding the context in which your project will evolve. Understanding the competitive landscape will help you identify opportunities and threats. Conducting surveys or interviews to identify target needs and expectations can provide valuable insights. This study will not only validate the relevance of your project, but also help you to better orient your commercial strategy.

Step 3: Resource evaluation

Once the idea and the market have been analyzed, it's time to assess the resources needed for implementation by drawing up a provisional budget to estimate the costs associated with the project, including development, marketing and operations. A realistic budget is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises. This preliminary design stage (APD) presents a more precise vision of the project, integrating technical, financial and organizational elements.

Stage 4: Detailed design (APD)

This final stage before implementation provides a comprehensive description of the project, including action plans, schedules, detailed budgets and risk analyses. This document is essential to ensure that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of the issues at stake and the resources required to successfully complete the project.

Drawing up an action plan

The action plan must define the key milestones required to complete the project. This means first identifying project milestones, from development phases to crucial decision-making moments. Each milestone must be accompanied by clear, measurable objectives, keeping the project on track while managing stakeholder expectations. 

A provisional timetable is also essential. By detailing deadlines for each phase, you create a roadmap that guides the team towards the final objectives, while facilitating regular evaluation of progress. The pre-project study report is the central document synthesizing all the analysis. It needs to be clear, concise and well-structured to make it easy for stakeholders to understand. 

To this end, start with an introduction setting out the purpose of the study. Next, set out the results of the various analyses, such as market research, resource assessment and risk analysis. The importance of clarity and conciseness cannot be underestimated. 

By incorporating graphs, tables and visual elements, you'll make the information more digestible. A report that is too dense risks losing the reader's attention, while visual aids can effectively illustrate key points. The validation phase is just as crucial. It's essential to present the results to decision-makers, and to establish clear criteria for determining whether the project should go ahead. 

Organize a meeting to discuss the study's conclusions, encouraging questions and exchanges to clarify the points raised. These decision criteria can include elements such as return on investment, strategic alignment and operational feasibility.

A rigorous pre-project study is essential to ensure the viability and success of a project. By following the key stages of analysis, planning and validation, you can minimize risks and maximize opportunities. To further develop these skills and prepare you effectively, our Master's degree in Business Project Management is a valuable asset to help you turn your ideas into concrete successes.