Which term describes the process of defining project goals and objectives?

The process of defining project goals and objectives is best described as planning. During this phase, project managers and stakeholders identify and outline the desired outcomes of the project, establish clear objectives, and determine the methods and resources needed to achieve those goals.

Planning serves as the foundation for the entire project, providing direction and clarity on what needs to be accomplished. It involves setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives, which guide the team throughout the project lifecycle. By clearly defining goals and objectives, the project can stay focused, align stakeholder expectations, and enhance the likelihood of successful completion.

In contrast, execution refers to the actual carrying out of the project plans, monitoring involves tracking progress and performance against the defined objectives, and completion signifies the end of the project, not the initial definition of goals.