Use These Six Steps for Scope Changes on Small Projects
Sunday, August 7, 2016, 6:00 AM | Leave Comment
Since small projects are much easier to define and complete quickly, they typically do not have many scope change requests.
If scope changes occur, they are typically also small in nature.
Even though the changes are small, they still need to be documented and managed.
The following simple process should be used able to be performed quickly.
-
Identify scope change request
Scope changes can be surfaced by anyone on the project team. They should be sent in writing to the project manager by paper, email, etc. No formal form is needed. However, the request must be in writing – not verbal.
-
Enter change in Scope Change Log
Even small projects need to track changes.
-
Determine the impact of the request
The project manager determines the impact of the scope change to the project in terms of cost, effort and duration. If there are multiple viable options, the project manager determines their impact as well.
-
Determine the value of the change
The person that requests the change should also validate the benefits of the change. For a small project this may not be a qualitative value, but might be expressed in subjective terms.
-
Take the information to the appropriate approver
The project impact, benefits and alternatives are taken to the project sponsor (or other designated person) for resolution.
If the sponsor does not approve the request and the corresponding impact, the scope request is not pursued.
An alternative for small projects is that the sponsor allows the project manager to approve the change. This would only be the case if the project can still be delivered within current schedule and budget expectations.
If the project manager declines, the change can still be taken to the sponsor. If the sponsor approves, the project receives schedule/budget relief to work on the change.
-
Update Scope Change Log
Update the Scope Change Log with the sponsor decision – accept or decline.
This simple process will ensure you maintain control of scope and reduce scope creep – even on small projects.
Throw us a like at Facebook.com/doable.financeCourtesy of…
This column is © copyright to www.Method123.com and originally appeared in their weekly project management tip newsletter.
Use the best project management process in the world. Method123 Project Management Methodology (MPMM) is used by tens of thousands of customers around the world.
Take a test drive with the free trial download.
Buy MPMM today – NOW with extra program management and IT development modules.
Get your project started quickly with a pre-built set of great project management templates.
