Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Other Inputs to Project Scope Definition

When defining project scope, you may find that the formal scope planning documents are not always a sufficient source of information. What other sources can you tap into to get the information you need, so you can accurately define project scope?

One source of additional information that contributes to scope definition is outputs from other project planning processes. Outputs of the planning processes in the other knowledge areas can be inputs to defining project scope.

Typically, other planning processes are underway simultaneously with scope planning. The outputs that result from many of these planning processes should be reviewed during scope definition because they often contain valuable information that can be used when defining the project's scope. Oftentimes, the outputs from other planning processes have an impact on the defined scope for a project.

Although you can review other management areas when defining your project scope, you should review four key areas that produce outputs to determine if these outputs have an impact on project scope definition. The four areas you should review are listed below.
  • Project cost management. This area ensures that a project is completed within the approved budget. Since scope definition involves cost estimating, outputs from this area that should be used as inputs to scope definition will focus on resource planning, cost estimating, and cost budgeting.
  • Project time management. This area ensures timely project completion. Since project scope definition requires duration estimates, outputs from this knowledge area that should be used as inputs to scope definition focus on activity definition, activity sequencing, and schedule development.
  • Project human resource management. This area helps a project manager make the most effective use of team members. Since scope definition requires resource projections, outputs from this area that should be used as inputs to scope definition concern organizational planning and staff acquisition.
  • Project quality management. This area ensures that the project will satisfy the needs for which it was undertaken. Since scope definition requires defining deliverables for client satisfaction, outputs from this area will focus on quality planning, quality assurance, and quality control.
Given the importance of the scope definition process, you should seek out all available supporting information. Outputs of the four project management areas described above are excellent inputs that can help you accurately and efficiently define your project scope.

5 comments:

Unknown said...

What a great Blog for Managing IT project management.

Why did you stop .. Did you get you PMP .. What lessons have you learned While project managing?

So much more to learn. I loved this information Thanks so so much please continue

dheeraj said...

This is so helpful, almost like a lesson in project management. very well written, Thanks so much!

Anonymous said...

Hi,
yes it is real practical blog,keep it up, but i have one question , which is that here the scope definition is the first step in plaining how come those areas will be input to scope if they are not yet established, or you mean that on a high level they will input to scope definition as they might be part of defining the scope

Anonymous said...

Matchless phrase ;)

Anonymous said...


Tag: PM201A51. Let me share all of you about #5 Tips for Project Management Success,, I hope you enjoy it

1. Plan your day using time management techniques

As a project manager, time management skills are essential because you are dealing with a wide range of tasks that demand a quick turnaround time. Planning your day will go a long way in keeping you organized and increasing your productivity. Assist your task planning by using project management software which helps you track the work of you and your team.

If you are not very tech savvy, a simple to-do list can also be a great organizational tool. Prioritize your most important tasks by putting them at the top of the list and less important ones at the bottom. Having a visual plan of your daily tasks helps to keep you on track and aware of time.

Related post: Free ebook 104 secrets to become a great project manager

2. Include stakeholders in important project conversations

While you will have plenty of responsibilities regarding the project, don’t neglect your clients.

Good communication is essential is keeping both parties informed of project progression, curtailing scope creep, and apprised of changing requirements. Some clients may have different expectations when it comes to communication, so make sure to establish the frequency and type of communication (like emails, phone calls, and face-to-face conversations) at the beginning of your project.

Establishing communication expectations early helps alleviate stakeholder uncertainty about communication frequency and delivery.

3. Regularly communicate with your team

Daily team communication helps keep misunderstandings and unclear requirements under control. Keeping your team informed in every step of the project is essential to project management success.

For example, a study published by Procedia Technology found that good communication skills were the cornerstone of project management. The study examined over 300 “construction project managers, architects, construction managers, engineers and quantity surveyors” and their successes and failures on various construction projects.

4. Anticipate project setbacks

Even the best-laid plans often go awry.

Remember that even with a high amount of planning and attention to detail, your project may still encounter some challenges. Pay attention to complaints from stakeholders or colleagues, and other warning signs, like a missed deadline or cost overrun, that there may be a problem.

Preventing a crisis will keep your project running smoothly, save you a lot of time, and keep you, your team, and your stakeholders confident in progressing with the project.

Unfortunately not every complication can be avoided. Crisis management skills are essential for dealing with the unexpected. Project managers need to be flexible and pragmatic. Improvise and make sharp decisions when needed.

Related post: 92 free project management templates

5. Stay focused on the details

A common problem project managers encounter is having the project aims not aligned with the organization’s objectives. A great project manager will strategize a plan for the project to lead back to the overall success of the business.

Know your project’s scope by heart and avoid wandering outside of the project’s requirements. It’s too easy to get lost in minor details and forget what your focus is, so a well-planned project scope is essential for success.

And final, you should use KPI to measure effectiveness of the project, here are full list: 76 project management KPIs