Change Request
An official, documented request to alter a project document, a deliverable, or an approved baseline.
Key Points
- Must be documented and submitted for review through the change control process.
- May propose corrective or preventive actions, defect repairs, or updates to project documents.
- Changes to a baseline require approval before implementation.
- Should include impact analysis on scope, schedule, cost, quality, and risk.
Example
After scope is baselined, a client asks for an extra reporting feature. The project manager prepares a change request detailing impacts on schedule and cost and submits it to the change control board for a decision before any work begins.
PMP Example Question
A stakeholder asks to add functionality after the scope baseline is approved. What should the project manager do next?
- Implement the change if it increases business value.
- Have the team estimate and start the work immediately.
- Submit a formal change request for evaluation through change control.
- Update the risk register and proceed with the change.
Correct Answer: C — Submit a formal change request
Explanation: Once baselines are approved, any modification must go through the formal change control process and be approved before implementation.
HKSM