Scope Management
Scope Management involves controlling what is included and excluded in a project. It is crucial for ensuring that the project stays on track and does not expand beyond its original objectives, a phenomenon known as scope creep.
Scope Creep
- Definition: Occurs when new requirements are added after the project has started, leading to increased scope beyond the original plan.
- Effects: Can negatively impact the project schedule and budget.
Techniques to Manage Project Scope
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Identify All Requirements at the Outset:
- Gather and document all project requirements before starting the project.
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Allow Only Necessary Changes:
- Implement changes only if they are deemed absolutely necessary and beneficial.
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Examine the Impact of Changes:
- Assess how proposed changes will affect the project schedule, budget, and resources before approval.
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Delay Some Changes:
- Postpone non-essential changes for future enhancements to prevent scope creep.
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Time Boxing:
- Limit the amount of time dedicated to a particular task or project phase.
Timeboxing Steps
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Set the Date for System Delivery:
- Establish a fixed deadline for when the system or project will be delivered.
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Prioritize Functionality:
- Determine which functionalities are most important and should be included in the initial release.
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Build Core Functionality:
- Focus on developing the most crucial features first.
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Postpone Less Critical Functionality:
- Delay features that cannot be developed within the allocated time frame.
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Deliver Core Functionality:
- Release the system with the core features completed.
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Iterate for Enhancements:
- Repeat the development process to add refinements and additional features in subsequent phases.
Effective scope management and Project Staffing are essential for keeping a project on track and ensuring its success. Properly managing scope helps prevent delays and cost overruns, while a well-structured staffing plan ensures that the project is adequately resourced and organized.