How are baseline changes controlled and who typically approves them?

How are baseline changes controlled and who typically approves them?

• A. Baselines change automatically with no approval.
• B. Only the project manager can approve changes, no formal process.
• C. Changes to baselines are managed via the change control process and typically require approval by the CCB or sponsor.
• D. Changes are made only at project closure.

Answer: (C)

Baseline changes are controlled through a formal change control process, which ensures any modification to the approved baselines—scope, schedule, cost, and related performance targets—is evaluated before it’s made. A change request is submitted, its impact on schedule, budget, quality, and risk analyzed, and then the Change Control Board reviews and decides whether to approve, reject, or defer the change. In practice, approval often comes from the Change Control Board, sometimes in collaboration with the project sponsor or other authorized authority, depending on the organization’s governance structure. Once approved, the baseline documents are updated and stakeholders informed; if not approved, the baselines stay as they are. Automatic changes or changes made without this formal process would erode governance and alignment with objectives, and making changes only at project closure would be too late.

Baseline changes are controlled through a formal change control process, which ensures any modification to the approved baselines—scope, schedule, cost, and related performance targets—is evaluated before it’s made. A change request is submitted, its impact on schedule, budget, quality, and risk analyzed, and then the Change Control Board reviews and decides whether to approve, reject, or defer the change. In practice, approval often comes from the Change Control Board, sometimes in collaboration with the project sponsor or other authorized authority, depending on the organization’s governance structure. Once approved, the baseline documents are updated and stakeholders informed; if not approved, the baselines stay as they are. Automatic changes or changes made without this formal process would erode governance and alignment with objectives, and making changes only at project closure would be too late.