What stage follows product validation in the project lifecycle?

Following product validation in the project lifecycle, the appropriate next step is to commence closeout procedures. This stage involves completing all necessary activities related to finalizing the project. Closeout procedures include obtaining acceptance of deliverables, ensuring that all project documentation is finalized, conducting a lessons learned session, and transitioning any remaining project responsibilities to operations or maintenance teams.

This stage is crucial as it formally concludes the project, ensuring a smooth handover and capturing valuable insights gained throughout the project's lifespan. It also allows for assessing the overall performance of the project against its goals and objectives, which enhances the organization's future project execution and management practices.

The other choices do not represent the immediate next stage after product validation. New work implies ongoing tasks outside the validation phase, which might occur but is not a direct continuation. Change request processes pertain to managing modifications if any aspects of the project require alteration, but they are not inherently part of the standard closing procedure. Deliverables transference refers to handing off project outputs but should normally precede the closeout actions, rather than follow immediately after validation.