What event marks the end of the network planning stage?

The end of the network planning stage is marked by network design approval. This is a crucial point in the project lifecycle because it signifies that all stakeholders have reviewed and accepted the proposed network design, ensuring it meets the project's requirements and objectives.

Until this approval is granted, the network planning stage is still in progress as various design elements are being discussed, assessed, and modified. Network design approval is essential moving forward, as it paves the way for the subsequent phases of the project, including bid releases and vendor selection. Approval indicates that the design has been validated for feasibility, cost-effectiveness, scalability, and compliance with any regulatory or operational standards that apply.

The other options, while important steps in the overall project management and execution process, do not specifically represent the conclusion of the network planning stage. Project initiation refers to the start of the project and does not indicate completion. Bid release comes after the design has been finalized and is a step towards vendor selection, which also happens post-approval.