Change Control Process Deep Dive

Integrated Change Control

Integrated Change Control is the process of reviewing all change requests, approving or rejecting changes, and managing changes to deliverables, project documents, and the project management plan.

Change Control Process

1. Identify the change — Any stakeholder can identify a need for change
2. Document the change request — All change requests must be formally documented
3. Assess the impact — Evaluate effects on scope, schedule, cost, quality, risk, and other areas
4. Submit to the CCB — The Change Control Board reviews and decides
5. Implement if approved — Update plans, baselines, and execute the change
6. Communicate the decision — Inform all affected stakeholders
7. Update change log — Record the decision and outcome

Key PMP Exam Points

• ALL changes go through change control — even if the sponsor requests them
• Only the CCB can approve changes to baselines
• The PM can approve changes that don't affect baselines (in some organizations)
• Rejected changes should still be documented in the change log
• Emergency changes can be fast-tracked but must still be documented

Related Study Resources

• Integration Management Cheat Sheet
• Process Domain Study Guide