Change
An alteration made to any baselined deliverable, a component of the project management plan, or a project document that is under formal control.
Key Points
- Applies only to items under formal configuration or baseline control.
- Documented through a change request and analyzed for impact on scope, schedule, cost, quality, and risk.
- Requires approval through the defined change control process (e.g., CCB) before implementation.
- Once approved, triggers updates to baselines, plans, and related documents, and must be communicated to stakeholders.
Example
A sponsor asks to add a new compliance report after the scope baseline is approved. The project manager logs a change request, performs impact analysis on cost and schedule, seeks CCB approval, and if approved, updates the scope baseline, schedule, and reporting deliverables.
PMP Example Question
Which statement best describes a change in a formally controlled project environment?
- An informal suggestion shared during a team stand-up.
- A variance noted in a status report that requires no follow-up.
- Any proposed or approved alteration to a baselined deliverable, plan component, or controlled project document.
- A quick fix implemented by the technical lead to satisfy a user request.
Correct Answer: C — An alteration to a baselined deliverable, plan component, or controlled project document
Explanation: A change affects items under formal control and must follow the change control process, including documentation, impact analysis, and approval.
