Baseline in Project Management – Definition and Meaning
A baseline is the originally approved and thus binding version of a project plan or a specific part of it (e.g., schedule baseline, cost baseline, scope baseline). It serves as the official reference point for measuring and evaluating project performance during execution. Baselines are used to identify deviations from the original plan and to objectively assess project progress by providing a fixed comparison benchmark.
Example, best practice, and further information
In an IT project, the baseline might include the initially approved schedule and the originally defined budget. A best practice is to change a set baseline only after submitting a formal change request and receiving approval. This aligns with the Integrated Change Control process in the PMBOK Guide and agile release planning. It ensures that changes to the plan are managed and documented to maintain the integrity of the project.