Process: Control Scope
Process Group: Monitoring and Controlling
Knowledge Area: Project Scope Management
Purpose
The Control Scope process involves monitoring the status of the project and product scope and managing changes to the scope baseline. It ensures that only approved changes are implemented and helps prevent scope creep by identifying deviations early and initiating corrective actions.
Inputs
- Project Management Plan – Especially the scope management plan, scope baseline, and change management plan.
- Project Documents – Includes lessons learned register, requirements documentation, and traceability matrix.
- Work Performance Data – Information on scope-related task status and completed deliverables.
- Organizational Process Assets (OPAs) – Historical data, change control procedures, and scope control policies.
Tools and Techniques
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Data Analysis
- Variance Analysis – Compares planned vs. actual performance to detect scope deviations.
- Trend Analysis – Monitors evolving scope issues over time.
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Expert Judgment – Used to interpret scope data and recommend corrective actions.
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Meetings – Held to assess scope changes, review status, and communicate actions to stakeholders.
Outputs
- Work Performance Information – Aggregated data showing how scope is performing relative to the plan.
- Change Requests – Triggered when deviations require updates to scope, deliverables, or documentation.
- Project Management Plan Updates – Especially to the scope baseline, if change requests are approved.
- Project Document Updates – Including the requirements documentation and traceability matrix.
Role in the Process Group and Knowledge Area
- As part of the Monitoring and Controlling Process Group, Control Scope ensures project work stays aligned with approved scope boundaries.
- Within Project Scope Management, it reinforces the structure needed to detect and address scope issues before they impact schedule, cost, or quality.
Why It Matters
- Prevents Scope Creep – Ensures that work performed aligns with authorized requirements only.
- Maintains Control – Allows timely intervention to resolve unauthorized changes or misunderstandings.
- Enables Transparent Change Management – Integrates tightly with Perform Integrated Change Control.
- Supports Predictable Performance – Keeps the project focused on delivering what was promised.