groundwork
/ˈɡraʊndˌwɜːrk/Definitions
1. noun
preliminary study, investigation, or effort that is necessary before a project or plan can be put into effect
“The team spent several months laying the groundwork for the new business venture.”
2. noun
the foundation or basis on which something is established or operates
“The new policy has been built on solid groundwork, and it’s expected to be successful.”
3. verb
to prepare the way for something or to lay the foundations for it
“The organization will groundwork for the new initiative over the next few months.”