What does a change control process primarily manage?

A change control process is essential in project management as it systematically manages and regulates changes to various aspects of a project. The primary focus of this process is on managing changes specifically related to project scope, schedule, and cost. Such changes can arise due to various factors, including stakeholder requests, unforeseen obstacles, or shifts in business goals, and without a structured change control process, these changes could disrupt the project.

By establishing a formal procedure for reviewing and approving changes, the change control process helps to ensure that all adjustments are appropriately assessed for their impact on the project's overall objectives. This includes evaluating how changes could affect timelines and budget constraints, allowing for informed decision-making and minimizing potential negative effects on project delivery. Ultimately, robust change control contributes to maintaining project alignment with its original goals while being flexible enough to adapt to necessary modifications.