Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) Practice Exam

The concept described as the original plan of a project plus or minus approved changes is referred to as a baseline. In project management, a baseline provides a reference point that allows for monitoring and controlling project performance. It typically includes key elements such as scope, schedule, and cost, establishing the original approved version against which all actual performance is measured.

When changes occur—which may arise from unforeseen issues, stakeholder requests, or other project dynamics—these adjustments are documented and the baseline is modified accordingly, ensuring that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of the project's scope and progress. This structured approach is essential for effective project management, helping teams maintain alignment and accountability throughout the project lifecycle.

The other choices refer to different elements of project management. The scope statement defines the project's objectives and boundaries but does not include the approved changes that modify the original plan. A milestone signifies a significant point or event in a project timeline, while a deliverable refers to a specific output or deliverable of the project rather than the overall plan.