3 5 Perform Integrated Change Control
Perform Integrated Change Control Explained
Perform Integrated Change Control is a critical process in project management that involves reviewing all change requests, approving changes, managing changes to deliverables, and updating the project management plan and project documents. This process ensures that changes are properly evaluated, approved, and implemented to maintain project integrity and alignment with project objectives.
Key Concepts
1. Change Request
A Change Request is a formal proposal to modify any document, deliverable, or baseline. It can include requests to add, update, or delete project scope, schedule, cost, or resources. Change requests are initiated by stakeholders, project team members, or external factors.
Example: During a software development project, a client might request additional features not originally specified in the project scope. This request would be documented as a change request and evaluated for its impact on the project.
2. Change Control System
A Change Control System is a set of procedures that defines how changes to the project will be formally initiated, evaluated, approved, and implemented. It includes tools, processes, and roles to manage change requests effectively.
Example: A construction project might use a change control system that includes a change request form, a review committee, and a tracking tool to log and monitor all change requests. This system ensures that changes are systematically evaluated and managed.
3. Integrated Change Control
Integrated Change Control involves coordinating and integrating changes across all project components. This includes evaluating the impact of changes on scope, schedule, cost, quality, risk, and stakeholders. The goal is to ensure that changes are aligned with the project's overall objectives and constraints.
Example: In a marketing campaign, a change in the campaign's target audience might require adjustments to the messaging, budget, and timeline. Integrated Change Control ensures that these adjustments are made in a coordinated manner, minimizing disruptions to the project.
4. Impact Analysis
Impact Analysis is the process of evaluating the potential effects of a change request on the project's objectives, constraints, and stakeholders. This analysis helps in determining the feasibility and priority of the change request.
Example: For a construction project, an impact analysis might assess the cost, schedule, and quality implications of adding an extra floor to a building. This analysis helps in making informed decisions about whether to approve the change request.
5. Change Management Plan
The Change Management Plan is a subsidiary plan of the project management plan that outlines the procedures for managing changes to the project. It includes details on how change requests will be processed, who is responsible for approving changes, and how changes will be communicated to stakeholders.
Example: A software development project might have a Change Management Plan that specifies that all change requests must be reviewed by the project manager and the client, with final approval from the steering committee. This plan ensures that changes are managed consistently and transparently.