This original ITCertPath learning chapter supports concept review and scenario practice. Confirm final policies and exam details with PMI before your appointment.
Build one integrated view of delivery
The project management plan coordinates subsidiary plans and establishes how work will be executed, monitored, controlled and closed. Baselines provide approved reference points; forecasts describe the currently expected result.
Progressive elaboration adds detail as information becomes available. It does not mean silently changing approved scope or baselines.
- Scope baseline: scope statement, WBS and WBS dictionary.
- Schedule baseline: approved schedule model used for comparison.
- Cost baseline: time-phased budget excluding management reserve.
- Performance measurement baseline: integrated scope, schedule and cost reference.
Control changes without blocking learning
When a requested change affects a controlled baseline, assess its impact and use the defined change-control process. After approval, update all affected plans, documents and stakeholder communications—not only the schedule.
A sponsor requests an additional capability. Document the request, analyze scope, schedule, cost, risk and benefit impacts, submit it to the authorized decision body, and implement only after the decision is recorded.
Use data to forecast, not to decorate reports
Variance identifies a difference from plan; trend analysis shows direction; forecasting estimates a future outcome. Earned value can connect scope, schedule and cost, but the project manager must still explain the cause and corrective action.
- CPI = EV ÷ AC; below 1.0 indicates cost inefficiency.
- SPI = EV ÷ PV; below 1.0 indicates less work completed than planned.
- EAC depends on whether current variance is expected to continue.
- Reserve analysis confirms whether contingency remains adequate for identified risk.
Deep-dive lessons
From requirements to an approved scope baseline
Requirements describe stakeholder needs and conditions. The scope statement defines included deliverables, exclusions and acceptance criteria. Decomposition organizes deliverables into a work breakdown structure, while the WBS dictionary adds details such as responsibility and acceptance information.
The approved scope statement, WBS and WBS dictionary form the scope baseline. Requirements traceability links each requirement to its origin, business need, deliverable, verification and status so that omissions and unauthorized additions are visible.
Integrated change control step by step
Capture the request and clarify its purpose. Analyze consequences for scope, schedule, cost, quality, risk, resources, procurement and benefits. Identify options and obtain recommendations from specialists when needed.
Submit the assessed request to the person or body with approval authority. Communicate the decision. If approved, update baselines and related plans, implement the change, verify the result and retain decision history. If rejected, record the reason and do not direct the team to perform it informally.