Defining Project Scope

1
Defining Project Scope

• Research has demonstrated that a clearly defined
  project scope is a major component of project
  success.
• A clearly defined project scope statement sets
  the stage for effective project planning and
  execution.
• A documented project scope performs as a standard
  by which performance and quality may be measured.
  

A project scope document is not a project plan. A
complete project plan includes schedules,
budgets, a work breakdown structure and many
other components.
2
Project Scope Checklist

• Project Objective
• Deliverables
• Milestones
• Technical Requirements
• Limits and Exclusions
• Reviews with Customers

3
Project Objectives

• An objective is the end-point of a process
• Answers the questions of what, when, and how much
• Provides a verifiable and measurable accounting
  of project success

4
Objectives are Goal Oriented

• An objective is not a process
• To provide my supervisor with information on
  buying a new computer for my office.
• Thats like an archer saying
• My objective is to move the arrow in the
  direction of the target.
• It is more likely that the archer would say
• My objective is to hit the bulls-eye.
• Revising the objective above would yield
• To convince my supervisor to approve the
  purchase of a new computer for my office.

5
Project Deliverables

• Deliverables are what the project will produce
  during its execution
• Deliverables may include the creation of specs,
  prototypes, and finished product
• Typically include time, quantity, and/or cost
  estimates

6
Project Milestones

• A milestone is a significant event in a project
  that occurs at a point in time
• Milestones identify major segments of the work
  that are completed
• Milestones serve as critical control points in
  project development
• Milestones are easily recognized by all
  participants in the project

7
Technical Requirements

• Technical requirements set the minimum allowable
  quality and capability for project outcome
• Examples
• The computer must be able to run on 240 and 115
  volts AC, as well as 24 volts DC.
• The entire hamburger production process must be
  limited to 4 minutes or less.

8
Limits and Exclusions

• Determines what is not included in the project
• Prevents project creep
• Examples
• The house will be built, but no landscaping or
  security devices added.
• Software will be installed, but no training
  given.

9
Reviews with Customers

• Reviews are a necessary component of project
  control
• Customer reviews are often a primary source of
  input for change and enhancement
• Reviews insure that everyone associated with the
  project know whats going on
• Reviews are vital tools in maintaining a strong
  client-PM relationship

10
Maintaining Project Scope Control

• Know the Business Situation and Your Clients
• Communicate Effectively, Clearly and Often
• Provide Concise and Measurable Results
• Clearly Define Authority and Responsibility
• Avoid Micro-Managing

11
The Three Levels of Scope

• Level 1
• Scope statements must be objectively measurable,
  unambiguous, and describe strategically relevant
  business results.
• Level 2
• The project scope must make clear the projects
  position and importance within the overall
  strategic goals of the organization.
• Level 3
• The subdivision of every task within the project
  team is associated with a measurable outcome.

12
Project Scope
Questions?