Lecture 2: Project Concept Document

What is a Project Concept Document?

Project Concept Document, is a document represented

before the complete project proposal, to describe the main

idea and objectives of a project.
The purpose of the project concept document, is to capture

the interest of the funding agency, and to demonstrate that

the idea they are proposing is worthy of further
consideration

Sections of a Project Concept Document

Introduction (Problem Statement)
This document is usually presented to a funding agency,
and thus you need to persuade this agency that your
project worth funding!
Your opening paragraph must capture the community

needs you have identified while also stimulating the

reader to continue reading your document.
Explain the problem that exists in the environment

under study (company, institution, etc), and how by

applying this project, this problem will be efficiently
solved.

Sections of a Project Concept Document

Introduction (Problem Statement)
Briefly provide supporting documentation for the importance

of addressing the problem in concern. If you have statistical

data, use it, numbers are always convincing.
In short, indicate why anyone should care to fund or to buy

such a project.
Make sure to cite or refer to what others have accomplished

relative to your project or research. Beware of stating that you

are the only person who has ever proposed such a project.
Even the most brilliant and innovative concepts are based on
the work of others from related fields

Sections of a Project Concept Document

Project Description
Goals and Objectives/Research Questions

A goal is statement describing a broad or abstract intent,

state or condition.
An objective is a statement of measurable outcomes that
relate to the goal. An objective include who, what, and
when information. It is not a statement about how.

Methodology and Timeline

Give an overview of your methodology, how the project

will be carried out, and any innovative approaches,
techniques, or processes that will be used.
Include general timelines for what you hope to
accomplish (you can benefit from the deliverables due
date table illustrated in the previous lecture)

Sections of a Project Concept Document

Cont. Project Description
Benefits/Anticipated Output

Describe the anticipated benefits/output and who will

benefit. What you expect to add to the environment in
concern when implementing your project.

Tip: Try to be brief, concise and clear. Concept papers

should not be longer than five pages. Dont overwhelm

the reader with details, but avoid sounding vague or
unsure about what you want to accomplish. Be
positive and definite. Instead of saying an objective
may be accomplished indicate that the objective
will be accomplished by a certain time.

Sections of a Project Concept Document

Support Needed & Costs (if requested)
Only include budgetary information if it is specifically

requested.
Finally, appearance is important. This concept paper represents

you!
The type size should be large enough to read easily (usually 12
pts and 14 for headers)
Margins should be standard size (left margin 3.5 cm, other
margins 2.5cm)
Check the spelling errors before submission.
Attention to details is important.
Number all pages.
Place your name and the date in the header
Include your contact information at the end of the document

Suggested Format of a Project Concept

Paper
[Project Title]
[Your names]
[Date]
Introduction (Problem Statement)
Project Description
Goals and Objectives/Research Questions
Methodology and Timelines
Benefits/anticipated outputs
Support Needed and Costs (if requested)
Contact Information