There are four stages to the lifecycle of an HTNG workgroup. The lifecycle is dynamic, and each stage may be repeated. Since 2010, all existing and prior workgroups have been formally classified into one of four states:

• Incubation (defining what they will do)
• Chartered (doing it)
• Maintenance (refining/fixing problems)
• Retirement (complete, but with the possibility of revival as needed)

Workgroups in each state have rules of engagement appropriate to that state, in terms of objectives, deliverables, process, meeting schedule, participation, and other aspects.

Incubation

Any small group of interested members may start an incubation workgroup. Incubation workgroups work with an HTNG facilitator to write a short charter request, which must (a) define a business problem, (b) identify a set of desired outcomes (solutions), (c) agree on at least the first specific deliverables, and (d) provide a high-level project plan to achieve the first deliverables within about six months. A subcommittee of HTNG directors reviews charter requests for relevance and feasibility, and either approves them, or provides feedback on what needs to change to achieve approval. HTNG may disband incubation workgroups that do not produce a viable charter within a reasonable period of time, which may range from a few weeks for simple charters to 3-4 months for complex ones.

Chartered (Active)

Once approved, the workgroup becomes a chartered workgroup and begins holding regular meetings. Most workgroup charters will have durations of six to 18 months, but never longer than the period of time for which they have already defined specific deliverables, outcomes, and milestones. Chartered workgroups may be continually re-chartered as they are able to define successive stages of deliverables.

Maintenance

Once a chartered workgroup reaches its last approved milestone, it can either seek to re-charter with follow-on objectives, or it can become a maintenance workgroup. Maintenance workgroups can address problems or minor omissions in the solution or related specifications, and typically meet on a less regular basis. If new requirements are identified, the workgroup can submit a new charter request, and upon approval, reverts to “chartered workgroup” status.

Retired

Once the solution and any supporting specifications are stable, maintenance workgroups are formally retired, and oversight of any specifications is transferred to the associated Forum. The workgroup can still be re-chartered if future needs arise. Minor maintenance may be handled by ad hoc committees appointed by the Forum chairs, or the workgroup can be reactivated as a maintenance workgroup for larger issues.