How do you assess the impact of engineering changes on project scope, cost, and schedule?

1 Define the change request

The first step is to define the change request clearly and document its origin, purpose, and requirements. A change request is a formal proposal to modify the project scope, deliverables, specifications, or design. It can originate from various sources, such as the customer, the project team, the stakeholders, or the regulatory authorities. The change request should specify what needs to be changed, why, how, when, and by whom. It should also include a preliminary assessment of the feasibility, risks, benefits, and costs of the change.

2 Analyze the impact of the change

The next step is to analyze the impact of the change on the project scope, cost, and schedule. This involves evaluating how the change will affect the project objectives, scope baseline, work breakdown structure, deliverables, quality standards, resources, budget, schedule, risk register, and stakeholder expectations. The impact analysis should also consider the interdependencies and trade-offs among the project variables, as well as the potential ripple effects on other projects or processes. The impact analysis should be conducted by a cross-functional team of experts and stakeholders, using appropriate tools and methods, such as simulation, modeling, testing, or prototyping.

3 Review and approve the change

The third step is to review and approve the change according to a predefined change control process. A change control process is a set of procedures and criteria for evaluating, approving, rejecting, or deferring change requests. It should also define the roles and responsibilities of the change control board, the change owner, the change implementer, and the change auditor. The change control process should ensure that the change is aligned with the project vision, scope, and goals, that it is justified by a valid business case, that it is feasible and beneficial, and that it has the support and approval of the relevant stakeholders.

4 Implement and monitor the change

The fourth step is to implement and monitor the change according to a detailed change plan. A change plan is a document that outlines the steps, tasks, resources, timeframes, and deliverables for executing the change. It should also specify the communication, training, testing, verification, and validation activities for ensuring the quality and effectiveness of the change. The change plan should be integrated with the project plan and updated accordingly. The change implementation should be monitored and controlled by the change owner and the project manager, using appropriate performance indicators, metrics, and feedback mechanisms.

5 Evaluate and close the change

The final step is to evaluate and close the change according to a formal change closure process. A change closure process is a set of procedures and criteria for assessing, documenting, and communicating the results and outcomes of the change. It should also include the lessons learned, best practices, and recommendations for future changes. The change closure process should ensure that the change has met its objectives, delivered its benefits, satisfied its stakeholders, and complied with its requirements. The change closure should be approved by the change control board and the project sponsor, and communicated to the project team and other stakeholders.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?