Change Control Process for Scope Changes
During a predictive project's execution phase, a key stakeholder requests a change that adds a minor feature. The project manager assesses the impact and determines the change will increase cost by 5% and extend the schedule by two days, which is within the contingency reserves. What should the project manager do first?
Quick Answer
The correct first step is to submit a change request to the change control board (CCB). This is because the change control process for scope changes in predictive projects mandates that all proposed modifications, even minor ones, must be formally documented and reviewed by the CCB before any action is taken. The project manager’s assessment of cost and schedule impact is part of the analysis, but it does not grant the authority to approve the change; the CCB holds that decision-making power. On the Certified Associate in Project Management CAPM exam, this scenario tests your understanding of the formal change control system and the distinction between analyzing an impact and obtaining approval. A common trap is assuming that minor changes within contingency reserves can be implemented directly, but the process requires submission regardless of size. Remember the mnemonic: “Assess, then request—never implement without the CCB’s behest.”
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Submit a change request to the change control board (CCB).
The change control process requires submitting any change request to the Change Control Board (CCB) for evaluation and approval before implementation, even if the impact is within contingency reserves. Option B is incorrect because the project manager cannot unilaterally approve changes unless explicitly granted that authority. Option C is incorrect because the project charter is a high-level document and is not updated for minor feature changes; such updates are handled through integrated change control. Option D is incorrect because implementing the change without formal approval bypasses the established change control process.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Submit a change request to the change control board (CCB).
Why this is correct
This follows the formal change control process.
- ✗
Approve the change immediately and inform the team.
Why it's wrong here
The project manager may not have authority; change control board approval is needed.
- ✗
Update the project charter to reflect the new feature.
Why it's wrong here
The project charter is a high-level document; changes to scope go through change control.
- ✗
Implement the change since it is within the contingency reserves.
Why it's wrong here
Even if within reserves, formal change control must be followed.
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Variation 1. During project execution, a key stakeholder requests a change that will increase the project scope. The project manager evaluates the impact and determines it will require additional budget and time. What is the first step the project manager should take?
easy- A.Reject the change due to budget and time constraints
- ✓ B.Submit a change request to the change control board
- C.Implement the change and document it later
- D.Approve the change because the stakeholder is key
Why B: In predictive (waterfall) project management, any change that impacts scope, budget, or schedule must follow the formal integrated change control process. The project manager's first step after evaluating the impact is to submit a change request to the change control board (CCB) for approval or rejection. This ensures that all changes are documented, assessed for risks, and aligned with the project baseline before implementation.
Variation 2. During project execution, a key stakeholder requests a change that will increase the project scope. The project manager evaluates the impact and determines it will require additional budget and time. What should the project manager do first?
medium- A.Implement the change and update the project plan
- ✓ B.Submit a change request to the change control board
- C.Update the project baseline immediately
- D.Reject the change because it impacts the baseline
Why B: In predictive (waterfall) project management, any change that impacts scope, budget, or schedule must follow a formal change control process. The project manager first assesses the impact, then submits a change request to the Change Control Board (CCB) for approval before any action is taken. Implementing the change or updating baselines without CCB approval violates the control scope process defined in the PMBOK Guide.
Variation 3. In a predictive project, the project sponsor requests a scope change that will significantly increase the project cost. The project manager should FIRST:
hard- A.Reject the change as it impacts budget
- ✓ B.Evaluate the impact of the change on the project constraints
- C.Update the project charter
- D.Implement the change immediately
Why B: When a scope change is requested, the project manager must first evaluate the impact on project constraints (cost, schedule, quality, etc.) before proceeding. Updating the charter or rejecting the change without evaluation is premature.
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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