What is the purpose of change control in project management?

The purpose of change control in project management is to manage changes with proper authorization and documentation. This process ensures that any modifications to the project scope, timeline, or resources are formally reviewed, evaluated, and approved prior to implementation. By following a structured change control process, project managers can assess the impact of changes on the project's objectives, risks, and stakeholders. This helps to maintain project integrity, align changes with strategic goals, and minimize disruptions.

Adequate documentation within change control also provides a clear record of what changes were made, why they were necessary, and who authorized them. This fosters accountability and transparency among the project team and stakeholders, thus preventing unauthorized or hasty changes that could derail project progress or increase costs unnecessarily. In summary, change control is a vital aspect of effective project management that supports structured decision-making and enhances project outcomes.