Sign in Subscribe

Describe the purpose of scope verification and scope control.

Last updated on 

Scope Verification:

Purpose:
Scope verification is a process that involves formalizing acceptance of the project scope by the stakeholders. It is performed to ensure that all the work and only the work included in the project scope is completed successfully.

Technical Details:

  1. Scope Baseline:
    • Scope verification starts with a well-defined scope baseline, which includes the project scope statement, WBS (Work Breakdown Structure), and the WBS dictionary. This baseline serves as a reference for validating whether the project work is in alignment with the agreed-upon scope.
  2. Inspection and Review:
    • The project deliverables and work results are inspected and reviewed against the predefined criteria and requirements specified in the scope baseline.
    • Verification may involve various techniques, such as inspections, walkthroughs, and audits, to ensure that the work complies with the project scope.
  3. Stakeholder Involvement:
    • Key stakeholders, including the project sponsor and relevant subject matter experts, participate in the verification process. Their input is crucial for confirming that the project meets their expectations.
  4. Documentation:
    • The verification process generates documentation confirming that the work completed aligns with the scope baseline. Any discrepancies or changes are documented for further analysis and decision-making.
  5. Formal Acceptance:
    • Once the verification process is complete and all discrepancies are resolved, formal acceptance of the project scope is obtained from stakeholders. This marks the end of the verification phase.

Scope Control:

Purpose:
Scope control is the process of monitoring and controlling changes to the project scope. Its primary goal is to prevent unapproved changes and ensure that the project stays on track with its original objectives.

Technical Details:

  1. Change Control System:
    • Establish a change control system that includes a formalized process for submitting, reviewing, approving, and implementing changes to the project scope. This system helps in maintaining control over any alterations to the project scope.
  2. Scope Change Identification:
    • Continuously identify and assess potential changes to the project scope. This involves evaluating requests for changes, understanding their impact on the project, and determining whether they are necessary or aligned with project objectives.
  3. Impact Analysis:
    • Conduct a thorough impact analysis for proposed scope changes. Assess how changes may affect project time, cost, resources, and overall objectives. This analysis is critical for making informed decisions on whether to approve or reject a scope change.
  4. Scope Change Approval:
    • Changes to the project scope should only be approved after careful consideration and analysis. The project manager, along with relevant stakeholders, decides whether the change is necessary and aligns with the project's goals.
  5. Documentation and Communication:
    • All changes, whether approved or rejected, must be documented. This documentation includes details about the change, its impact, the decision-making process, and any adjustments made to the project plan. Communication about scope changes is crucial to keep all stakeholders informed.
  6. Rebaseline if Necessary:
    • If significant changes are approved, it might be necessary to update the project baseline, including the scope baseline, to reflect the modified project scope accurately.

Scope verification ensures that the project work meets the agreed-upon scope, while scope control focuses on managing and controlling changes to prevent scope creep and maintain project alignment with its objectives. Together, these processes contribute to successful project management by ensuring clarity, alignment, and control over the project scope.