What is the purpose of using a baseline in project management?

Using a baseline in project management serves as a crucial reference point for measuring the project’s performance against the original plan. It establishes a set of parameters—including scope, schedule, and budget—that are agreed upon at the outset of the project. This allows project managers and stakeholders to compare actual progress with what was initially planned.

As the project progresses, having this baseline enables teams to assess how well they are performing in relation to the original objectives and whether they are staying within the defined constraints. If there are deviations from the baseline, these discrepancies can be analyzed to identify potential issues, allowing for timely corrective actions to keep the project on track.

Establishing a baseline is essential for effective project control as it provides a clear framework for performance measurement, facilitating informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.