Why is documentation important in defining project scope?

Documentation is crucial in defining project scope because it establishes a clear and detailed reference point for all aspects of the project. This foundational element is essential for managing changes and amendments throughout the project's lifecycle. When documentation is thorough, it outlines the original project scope, objectives, deliverables, and various requirements, helping to ensure that everyone involved in the project has a consistent understanding.

When changes are proposed, the documentation provides a baseline against which those changes can be measured. It allows project managers to assess the implications of changes on time, cost, and quality, and to communicate these impacts effectively to stakeholders. This process is vital to maintain control over the project and to prevent scope creep—when uncontrolled changes extend the project scope beyond its original intentions.

Therefore, the importance of documentation in defining project scope lies in its role as a foundational tool for managing ongoing projects and ensuring that all changes are well-documented and understood by all parties involved.