The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for managing software lifecycle. Based on declarative models and knowledge of their interpretation, embodiments of the present invention facilitate lifecycle management for model-based software applications. Lifecycle models, such as, for example, lifecycle state machine models are stored in a shared repository such that executive services can determine how software application lifecycles are to be managed and transitioned. Software lifecycle activities can verify that a transition is possible and identify any errors preventing a lifecycle transition. Model-based error handling and error recovery mechanisms can be used to correct any identified errors.