predictive approach
A development method where scope, schedule, and cost are defined early in the life cycle and managed against set baselines.
Key Points
- Plans and baselines for scope, schedule, and budget are created upfront and guide delivery.
- Best for stable, well-understood requirements and low technical uncertainty.
- Changes are controlled through formal change control and impact analysis.
- Progress is tracked against the plan using milestones, phase gates, and variance analyses.
Example
A government office build-out with fixed requirements and strict codes uses a predictive approach: the team completes detailed design, creates a WBS and schedule, sets scope/schedule/cost baselines, and manages any requested changes through a formal change control board.
PMP Example Question
A project has stable requirements, a fixed budget and deadline, and significant compliance documentation. Which development approach is most appropriate?
- Predictive approach
- Iterative approach
- Incremental approach
- Hybrid approach
Correct Answer: A — Predictive approach
Explanation: When scope, time, and cost are determined early and must be tightly controlled, a predictive approach with formal baselines and change control is most suitable.
