Upon validation of project deliverables, what should the project manager ensure before proceeding with project closure?

The focus during project closure is to ensure that all deliverables meet the required standards and are accepted by stakeholders. One of the critical items to validate before project closure is the transfer of the completed deliverables. This means ensuring that the deliverables not only have been produced according to the project specifications but are also officially handed over to the relevant stakeholders or clients.

In this context, the correct answer highlights the importance of transferring deliverables. This transfer process often includes providing documentation, training, or any other necessary information that stakeholders may need to effectively utilize the deliverables. Without this step, there is a risk of misunderstandings or misalignment around what has been delivered, which could lead to dissatisfaction or further issues.

While it is also important that stakeholders approve project deliverables, the focus on transfer signifies that the project manager needs to ensure complete handover of all project outputs before formally closing the project. This transfer solidifies the end of the project lifecycle by confirming that the project's objectives have been met and that the deliverables are in the hands of those who will use them moving forward.