Topic Definitions #
Project Scope Statement
Key Stakeholders
Project Modification
Approve Vision: Finalizing the Project Vision #
The Approve Vision block is the final step in developing a project vision. Its main goal is to approve the Project Scope Statement as the key document that defines what the project includes and what it does not. Key stakeholders approve this document to confirm the strategic direction and align all participants.
Approve Vision
Approve Vision
Approve Vision
Approve Vision
Approve Vision
Approve Vision
Project Scope Statement and Its Importance #
The Project Scope Statement contains several essential components. Together, they clarify what the project will deliver and what lies outside its scope:
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Product Scope Description
– describes the project’s product, its configuration, and main features to be developed. Ideally, this should align with the overall product vision.
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Project Goals, Milestones, and Deliverables
– defines what the project aims to achieve, major checkpoints, and expected outputs across its lifecycle.
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Formalizing Feedback
– captures and integrates stakeholder feedback into the scope documentation in an official manner.
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Constraints and Assumptions
– lists limitations and expectations that affect planning and execution. These must be considered from the beginning.
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Exclusions
– clarifies what the project explicitly does not include. This helps avoid confusion and prevents scope creep.
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Risks
– identifies known or anticipated risks. A more detailed risk analysis will take place during the planning phase.
Once the Project Scope Statement is ready, it becomes the central point of reference, replacing the need for additional documentation or tools at this stage.
How to Approve the Project Scope Statement #
Step 1: Prepare for Approval
Step 2: Organize a Stakeholder Meeting
Hold a meeting with executives, sponsors, and team leads. Structure it as follows:
Step 3: Formalizing Feedback
Step 4: Document Approval
The final approval process can be conducted in the following ways:
Step 5: Documenting the Decision
Step 6: Post-Approval Actions
Once the Project Scope Statement is approved:
Managing Scope Creep with the Scope Creep Matrix #
Even with a clear scope, change is inevitable. To manage this, use the Scope Creep Matrix — a tool for tracking and assessing every change request.
What Is the Scope Creep Matrix?
The Scope Creep Matrix is a visual tool that helps systematize information about change requests, including their impact on the scope, approval status, and final decisions. This matrix enables the project team and stakeholders to:
- Gain a complete overview of the current state of change requests.
- Assess which requests significantly impact the project scope.
- Make timely decisions on each request.
- Record communication and assign responsibility.
How is the Scope Creep Matrix structured?
The matrix includes the following key components:
At the approval stage, all stakeholders focus on this document, eliminating the need for additional tools or the creation of new materials.
Conclusion #
The approval of the project vision through the confirmation of the Project Scope Statement is a critical milestone that ensures a shared understanding of the project’s goals, boundaries, and deliverables among all stakeholders. This document serves as a foundational reference for subsequent planning and execution phases, clearly outlining what is included in the project, what is excluded, the risks to consider, and the requirements to be fulfilled.
The approval process involves thorough discussion, incorporation of feedback, final edits, formal endorsement, and proper documentation of the decision. Moving forward, effective change management is ensured by utilizing the Scope Creep Matrix, which allows the team to maintain control over the scope and adhere to the agreed-upon plan. Thus, a well-prepared and approved Project Scope Statement provides a solid basis for the successful implementation of the project.
