You can use a standard list of Project Stages or Construction Phases and map these to a project.
How to Create Your Standard List of Project Stages
Navigate to DS Command > Workspace > Project Stages
Create your Project Stages, especially adding the Name and Short Name (Code)
To Modify a Project Stage for a specific Project
Navigate to DS Command > VDC Manager > Projects
Select a Project
Edit
Change the Project Stage (Phase) setting
Click Save
