Project Scope

Scope definition

The totality of outputs, outcomes and benefits and the work required to produce them

The features and functions that characterise a product, service or result and the work that needs to be accomplished to deliver a product, service or result with the specified features or functions

Scope management definition

The process whereby outputs, outcomes and benefits are identified, defined and controlled

Objectives definition

A generic term for predetermined results towards which effort is directed. May be defined in terms out outputs, outcomes or benefits

Acceptance criteria

The requirements and essential conditions that have to be achieved before a deliverable is accepted

Deliverable definition

A tangible or intangible component of a project’s output. Aka product or output

Outcome definition

The changed circumstances or behaviour that results from the use of an output and leads to realisation of benefits

Milestone definition

A key event selected for its importance in the schedule commonly associated with tangible acceptance of deliverables

Scope creep definition

the continual extension of the scope of some projects, due to changing requirements, specifications and priorities

Importance of a clearly defined scope

Clarifies boundaries, avoids duplication or conflicts, prevents misunderstandings

What is a product breakdown structure

an organised presentation of the products that make up the main output of the project

What is a work breakdown structure

An organised presentation of the work needed to produce the products that are identified in the product breakdown structure

What is the purpose of PBS and WBS

focuses on objectives and provides logical structure for project, used to estimate and track costs and time, improves communication

What is a cost breakdown structure

Financial breakdown of the project into budgets, provides financial view of the project, splits project scope into individual cost components

What is an organisational breakdown structure

Represents the hierarchy of the company carrying out the project, shows who is responsible for completing the work and reporting on progress, useful for members of project team working across multiple projects

What is a responsibility assignment matrix

Combines WBS and OBS to show who is doing what in the project, provides summary of tasks, responsibilities and accountability