The baseline project plan is a comprehensive and formal document created during the planning phase of the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
- It outlines the fundamental aspects of the project, such as its scope, timeline (schedule), budget, resources, and risk assessment.
Purpose and Importance:
- The main purpose of building a baseline project plan is to establish a clear roadmap for the development effort.
- It provides a foundation against which actual project progress can be measured and monitored.
- By defining objectives and constraints early, the plan helps ensure that the project remains on track and within scope.
Key Components of the Baseline Project Plan:
- Scope – It describes what the project will deliver, including major functionalities and boundaries.
- Schedule – It details the time frame, including key milestones and deadlines for each phase.
- Budget – It estimates the total cost, including development, resources, tools, and contingencies.
- Risk Analysis – It identifies potential risks, their impact, and strategies for mitigation.
Review and Approval Process:
Once the baseline project plan is prepared, it must be reviewed and approved by stakeholders, including project sponsors, system analysts, and key business users. This review ensures that the plan aligns with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations.
- The approval of the plan signifies a formal commitment to proceed with the project. It sets expectations and serves as an authoritative reference throughout the development lifecycle.
Ongoing Role of the Baseline Plan:
After approval, the baseline project plan is used as a control tool. As the project progresses, managers refer to the baseline to:
- Monitor performance.
- Evaluate changes.
- Manage risks.
- Communicate status to stakeholders.
Any significant deviations from the baseline must be formally reviewed and justified through change management processes.
