Why does the remaining 5% slow down the project completion?

[Sandeep.K]

I've noticed that projects often move quickly in the beginning, but the final stretch, the last 5 - 10%, drags on much longer than expected.

What makes this last phase so challenging, and how can teams keep momentum until the very end

 

[thescopemaster]

In the final stages, you'll need to tackle some intricate integration work, testing, documentation, and getting the green light from stakeholders. It's important to establish clear criteria for completion right from the start and to include some buffer time in your schedule for those unavoidable last-minute tweaks and approvals

 

[Sandeep.K]

@thescopemaster That's a great point, you're right, the final stretch usually brings the most intricate work like integration, testing, and those all-important approvals. I like your point about setting clear completion criteria upfront; it prevents endless back-and-forth later.

In your experience, do you find teams underestimate this phase because it feels less 'exciting' than the build phase, or is it more about planning blind spots?