DESCRIPTION

This article will help you understand and navigate the process of updating, completing, or discontinuing a project. You'll learn how to initiate a modification, select the appropriate change type, provide justifications for your updates, and understand the approval workflow.

pushpin Only internal CMEI users can initiate a project modification. Once you start the process, labs can make necessary edits. Keep in mind that your project must be in either an Approved or Mod-Approved status to begin. Projects that are Approved are read-only and are locked by default until you initiate a modification.

STEP 1: Initiate a Modification

  • To begin, find your project and start the modification process:

    • From the Lab Planning Home page, locate your specific project.

    • Click the dropdown menu next to your project and select Edit.

    • From the Manage Project dropdown, choose Initiate Modification.

pushpinRemember: You can only initiate a modification if the project's status is already Approved or Mod-Approved.


STEP 2: Select the Type of Change You Need to Make

  • Clearly define what you want to do with your project. The type of change you select will update your project's status accordingly:

    • Project Modification: Choose this if you need to update or revise an existing project. The project's status will change to Mod at HQ/Lab.

    • Project Complete: Select this when all deliverables and tasks for your project are finished. The project's status will change to Completed.

    • Project Discontinued: Use this option if your project needs to be terminated before it's completed. The project's status will change to Discontinued.

  • If you select Project Complete or Project Discontinued, an additional field will appear:

    • Project End Date: Manually enter the end date or select it using the calendar icon.


STEP 3: Explain Your Changes

  • Provide a clear explanation for why you are making this modification and what specific changes are involved. This helps reviewers understand your request:

    • Rationale for Change: Clearly explain the reason behind this modification. What problem are you solving? Why is this change necessary?

    • Description of Change: Provide specific details about what is being changed or updated in the project. What exactly is different?


STEP 4: Submit Your Request

  • Once you've provided all the necessary information, submit your changes for review and approval:

    • Click Submit to finalize your request and send it into the approval workflow.



What Happens After You Submit Your Modification

After you submit, your modification enters an approval process:

  • The project status will update to Pending Mod Approval.

  • Your modification will be routed to the CMEI Project Lead, Office Admin, and Office Director for their review and approval.

  • A reviewer will either:

    • Approve the modification: The project status will become Mod-Approved, and a new version of your project will be created.

    • Cancel the modification: You will receive a notification with instructions on how to revise your request and resubmit it.

  • All updates and status changes throughout this process are recorded in the Change History of your project.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why can't I initiate a modification for my project? You can only initiate a modification if your project is in an "Approved" or "Mod-Approved" status. If your project is in a different status, you won't see the option to initiate a modification. Contact your CMEI Project Lead if you believe the status is incorrect.

2. What happens if my modification is canceled by a reviewer? If a reviewer cancels your modification, you will receive a notification explaining why. You will then need to revise your proposed changes based on their feedback and resubmit the modification for approval.

3. How will I know when my modification is approved? Once your modification is approved, the project status will change to "Mod-Approved" and a new version of your project will be created, reflecting your updates. All status changes are recorded in the project's Change History.

4. Can I modify a project that has been marked "Complete" or "Discontinued"?  Once a project is marked "Complete" or "Discontinued," it is generally considered final. If you believe there has been an error or you need to reactivate a project, you will need to contact your CMEI Project Lead or Office Admin to discuss possible options, as direct modification via this process would not be available.