How to Create a Project Scope Statement

Creating a project scope statement is crucial for defining the boundaries, deliverables, and objectives of a project. It helps ensure clear communication with stakeholders and provides a foundation for effective project management. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a project scope statement:

1. Define the Project Objectives: Start by clearly defining the objectives or goals of the project. What is the purpose of the project, and what do you hope to achieve? Clearly articulate the desired outcomes to set a clear direction for the project.
2. Identify Project Stakeholders: Identify all the key stakeholders involved in the project. This includes internal team members, external clients, suppliers, and any other individuals or groups impacted by or having influence over the project.
3. Gather Requirements: Engage with stakeholders to identify their requirements and expectations. Conduct interviews, surveys, or workshops to gather their input. Make sure to document these requirements, prioritizing them based on importance and feasibility.
4. Define Deliverables: Specify the tangible outputs or deliverables that the project will produce. These can be end-products, results, reports, software, or any other tangible outcomes. Define them in a clear and measurable manner, to avoid ambiguity and ensure everyone is on the same page.
5. Establish Boundaries: Define the boundaries and constraints of the project. This includes specifying what is included in the project scope (in-scope) and what is not included (out of scope). Clearly define any limitations regarding budget, resources, and time.
6. Set Project Milestones: Determine the key milestones or major achievements that will mark the progress of the project. These are important checkpoints to monitor progress and ensure alignment with project objectives.
7. Outline Assumptions and Risks: Identify any assumptions made during the project planning phase, and document associated risks. Assumptions should be tested and risks should be managed throughout the project lifecycle.
8. Obtain Stakeholder Sign-Off: Once the project scope statement is complete, present it to stakeholders for their review and approval. Seek their input and address any concerns or discrepancies. Obtain formal sign-off to ensure agreement and alignment across all key stakeholders.
9. Maintain Scope Control: Throughout the project, monitor and control changes to the project scope. Scope creep, or uncontrolled expansion of the project scope, can impact timelines, budgets, and overall project success. Any changes to the scope should follow a formal change control process.

Remember, the project scope statement serves as a reference document to manage expectations and guide project execution. It should be reviewed and updated as necessary to reflect any changes during the project lifecycle.