Scope Baseline
The scope baseline is not a single document; it is a collection of three documents: Scope Statement, Work Breakdown Structure and WBS Dictionary.
The scope baseline is controlled documentation against which project status and progress are measured.
Components of the Scope Baseline
The three components of the scope baseline are:
- Scope Statement
- Work Breakdown Structure
- WBS Dictionary
Scope Statement
A scope statement defines the complete scope of work. It provides details about project deliverables, objectives, assumptions, constraints, inclusions and exclusions.
Work Breakdown Structure
| Phase | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Initiation | 1.1 Develop the basic plan 1.1.1 Assign the project leader |
| 2.0 Organization | 2.1 Define the scope 2.2 Develop the schedule 2.3 Estimate costs |
| 3.0 Implementation and Verification | 3.1 Implementation 3.2 Control |
| 4.0 Closure | 4.1 Product handover 4.2 Release the team |
Figure 1: Reference example based on EC0935.
The work breakdown structure hierarchically breaks all project work or deliverables into smaller, manageable components. It generally has two or three levels of detail; an element at the lowest level is called a work package.
Sometimes, work packages are preceded by planning packages, with control accounts preceding planning packages.
WBS Dictionary
| WBS Code | Work Area | Lower-Level Work |
|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | Site preparation | 1.2 Site cleanup 1.3 Boundary wall construction |
| 2.1 | Resource procurement | 2.2 Cost estimation 2.3 Purchase materials and equipment 2.4 Recruit the workforce |
| 3.1 | House construction | 3.1.1 Foundation construction 3.1.2 Structural construction 3.1.3 Painting and plumbing |
| 4.1 | Cleanup | 4.2 Debris removal |
| 5.0 | Handover | Deliver the completed house |
Figure 2: Reference example of a WBS dictionary.
The WBS dictionary is integral to the WBS: the WBS is incomplete without it. Since the graphical WBS does not show element details, the dictionary lists that information.
Uses of the Scope Baseline
The scope baseline defines approved deliverables, the scope of work and agreed objectives. It provides a basis for project progress and helps determine daily work.
A scope baseline helps you:
- Establish a shared understanding among stakeholders,
- Move the project forward smoothly,
- Provide a basis for monitoring and controlling work,
- Prevent scope creep and gold plating.
The scope baseline is approved documentation containing stakeholder requirements and expectations. It is the reference for getting back on track after a deviation and a useful communication tool for clarifying team members’ responsibilities.
With all tasks defined, you and your team know what you are expected to do. Responsibilities are clear, allowing the work to proceed smoothly.
The approved scope baseline helps measure project status and progress against a clear objective. To change the scope, submit a change request and obtain approval for the revised baseline.
Controlling all changes reduces the likelihood of scope creep—uncontrolled changes to scope. It also reduces gold plating, or adding uncompensated extras, because the scope baseline is defined and progress is compared with it.
How to Develop the Scope Baseline
The project leader develops the scope baseline with the project management team.
The scope baseline is created while developing the work breakdown structure and consists of the project scope statement, WBS and WBS dictionary.
The scope statement includes a detailed description of the scope of work, project deliverables, assumptions, constraints, milestones, inclusions and exclusions.
To develop the scope statement, review the contract and requirements documents, then draft the statement.
A WBS is a visual, hierarchical breakdown of a project into smaller components or tasks.
It is a vital foundation for project planning, helping managers identify components, determine costs and develop the schedule. It integrates scope, schedule and the cost baseline, ensuring that project plans are aligned.
The WBS is developed after the scope statement is completed. It validates the statement and helps refine it throughout the process.
A work breakdown structure (WBS) may have two or three levels of detail; complex projects may require more.
According to the PMBOK Guide, the WBS dictionary provides detailed deliverable, activity and scheduling information for each component of the work breakdown structure.
The dictionary describes every WBS element, including deliverables, scope, duration, milestones, start and finish dates, required resources, costs, quality requirements and assigned team members.
Develop the WBS dictionary during or after creating the WBS. The dictionary reinforces the structure and makes it clearer for team members.
Conclusion
The scope baseline is the approved version of the scope statement, WBS and WBS dictionary. Changes must pass through a formal change control system.
Developing a scope baseline is the first step toward successful project completion. It defines the scope of work, supports schedule development and provides information about milestones, assumptions and constraints.
It is one of the performance measurement baselines that help keep your project on track.
References:
- PMBOK Guide, 6th Edition.
- CONOCER Competency Standard EC0935, “Managing Work Through Projects.”
- PM Study Circle.
