HKSM

The authorized baseline of the project's time model that may be updated only through the formal change control process and serves as the reference point for comparing planned versus actual results.

Key Points

• Represents the frozen plan for activity dates, milestones, and dependencies at a given point in time.
• Changes require an approved change request through the integrated change control process.
• Used to measure schedule variance and performance trends against what was originally planned.
• May be rebaselined only when significant, approved changes make the original baseline no longer realistic.

Example

A construction project sets its schedule baseline at the end of planning, locking in key milestone dates and activity sequences. When unexpected soil issues delay foundation work, the team submits a change request. Only after formal approval is the baseline updated; until then, progress is reported and variances are calculated against the original baseline dates.

PMP Example Question

Midway through a project, the team discovers a two-week delay on the critical path. To report variance accurately, what should the project manager compare the current forecasted finish dates against?

1. The latest resource calendar
2. The product backlog
3. The schedule baseline
4. The risk register

Correct Answer: C — The schedule baseline

Explanation: Variance is measured by comparing actuals and forecasts to the approved schedule baseline, which is the official reference for performance measurement.