Plain-language definitions for terms in this category.
Project charter
The document that authorizes a project and names its objectives, scope and sponsor.
Work breakdown structure (WBS)
A hierarchical breakdown of a project's total scope into smaller, manageable pieces of work.
Milestone
A significant point or event in a project schedule, typically marking the completion of a major deliverable.
Critical path
The longest sequence of dependent tasks that determines the shortest possible project duration.
Stakeholder register
A log of everyone with an interest in the project, their influence, and how to manage their expectations.
Scope statement
A document defining project boundaries: what is and isn't included in the project's deliverables.
Project baseline
The approved version of a project's scope, schedule and cost, used as a reference to measure performance.
Gantt chart
A bar chart showing a project schedule, with tasks listed against time and bars marking start and finish dates.
Dependency
A logical relationship between two tasks where one cannot start or finish until another does.
Risk register
A log of identified project risks, their likelihood, impact and planned response.
Earned value management (EVM)
A method for measuring project performance by comparing planned work, completed work and actual cost.
Change request
A formal proposal to modify a project's scope, schedule, cost or other baseline.