Pre-commissioning and Commissioning are part of the operational preparation activities in the form of inspection, static test, dynamic test, functional test, and pre-operational test activities to ensure that each component, equipment, sub-system, and system of the project facility has been installed and functioning with its specifications in the design for operational purposes. Pre-commissioning and Commissioning is a project transition phase from the construction stage to the operation stage which requires specialized knowledge, skills, and equipment. It is often underestimated, misunderstood, and distracted because the focus is on the completion of engineering, procurement, and construction activities.
Experience has shown that many projects fail to meet their goals and targets because of problems found during the pre-commissioning and commissioning phases. On the other hand, problems in the pre-commissioning and commissioning phases often cause severe and prolonged operational problems after start-up.