The term 'distinct stages' can be defined as a series of distinct steps or PHASES. These PHASES can be used to describe a process, such as the development of a product or the completion of a project. The term 'PHASES' is often used to refer to the different stages of a process, and it can also be used to refer to the different stages of a life cycle. In this context, the term 'distinct stages' refers to the individual steps or PHASES that make up a process or life cycle.