Glossary
/
Scope
arrow_back
All courses

What is Scope?

Scope

Scope refers to the combined objectives and tasks that need to be completed to finish a meeting or project.
Definition
Daniel Wirtz
Daniel Wirtz
Co-Founder, Facilitator School
Last updated
June 14, 2024

Scope essentially encapsulates all the objectives and tasks that are necessary to successfully complete a meeting or a project. It clearly outlines the boundaries and deliverables of a project, ensuring that everyone involved has a comprehensive understanding of what needs to be done and what the final goals are. By defining the scope, you establish a roadmap for the project or meeting, which includes identifying the necessary resources, tasks, timelines, and responsibilities.

For meetings specifically, clarifying the scope means deciding the main topics to cover, the decisions that need to be made, and the outcomes you aim to achieve by the end of the session. It acts as a guideline that helps keep the meeting focused and efficient, preventing the common pitfall of scope creep. Understanding and managing the scope right from the start can significantly influence the productivity and success of the project or meeting.

Learn more about

Scope

How do you define a project scope?

expand_more

Project scope is defined as the specific boundaries, objectives, and deliverables of a project. It outlines what is included and what is excluded from the project, ensuring everyone involved knows the full range of tasks and expected outcomes. This is crucial for planning, executing, and concluding a project without confusion or oversight. Often, a key tool used is the scope statement, which is a document detailing these elements explicitly.

What is a scope statement?

expand_more

A scope statement is a critical document in project management that clearly outlines the project scope, including its objectives, deliverables, and boundaries. For example, if a company is planning to launch a new product, the scope statement may detail the project's purpose, specify the product's specifications, and clarify the responsibilities of each team member. It helps in maintaining alignment among stakeholders and ensures comprehensive understanding across the team.

What is project scope management?

expand_more

Project scope management involves the processes used to ensure that a project includes all the work required, and only the work required, to complete the project successfully. It's a discipline that helps in defining and controlling what is included and what is not included in the project, through tools like work breakdown structures and scope statements. Effective scope management can prevent scope creep, thereby ensuring project success within the defined constraints.

Why is it important to establish project scope?

expand_more

Establishing project scope is vital as it serves as a foundation for project planning and execution. It helps in determining the necessary resources, setting realistic timelines, and assigning clear responsibilities. Properly defining the scope also aids in managing stakeholders' expectations and aligning the team's efforts towards achieving the set objectives. Ultimately, a well-defined scope increases the chances of project success and minimizes the risk of project failure due to misaligned goals or mismanaged resources.

We use cookies to enhance your experience, analyze site traffic and deliver personalized content. Read our Cookie Policy.
Reject
Accept