For project managers, it would be fantastic to have a tool in the Gantt view that allows us to see the "before" and "after" of project planning.

We all know that projects are dynamic elements that begin with an initial plan but may experience delays and deviations over time.

Projects in ClickUp include the critical path and slack, which are fantastic tools. However, from my perspective, there is a missing feature: a tool that lets us see the project's "before," meaning the initial schedule, and its "after," meaning the final schedule, to assess whether the project has deviated from the original plan.

Other tools, such as Monday.com, include this feature called Baseline, which displays two overlapping Gantt charts: one with the initial estimation and another showing the current reality.

What is a "Baseline" in Project Management?

A baseline is a project management tool used to outline the target schedule of a project. It serves as a reference framework for comparing the current progress (after any delays or changes) with the originally planned schedule. In other words, it’s an excellent way to visually understand the project’s overall progression over time. A baseline is best added at the start of a project so that it can serve as a reference point throughout the project’s lifecycle.

The baseline is a fixed reference point that defines the approved scope, schedule, and budget of a project at a specific moment in time. It serves as a benchmark for measuring the project’s progress and performance throughout its lifecycle. It is critical in project management as it helps identify deviations from the original plan and allows for corrective actions if necessary.

Baseline Components

Scope Baseline: Defines the project's deliverables, including approved goals, objectives, and requirements. It is typically documented in the Scope Statement and Work Breakdown Structure (WBS).

Schedule Baseline: This is the approved project schedule, including all activities, durations, dependencies, and key dates. It represents the initial plan for meeting project deadlines.

Budget Baseline: This is the approved cost estimate for the project, encompassing all resources needed to complete the activities within the established scope and schedule.

Importance of the Baseline

Monitoring and Control: Enables comparison of actual project performance with the plan, identifying deviations in scope, time, and cost.

Change Management: Facilitates impact analysis when project changes are requested, ensuring decisions are based on clear data.

Performance Evaluation: Used to calculate key indicators, such as Earned Value Management (EVM), which evaluates project progress in terms of cost and schedule.

Reviewing and Adjusting the Baseline

A baseline can be formally updated if significant changes to scope, schedule, or budget are approved. This is done through change management processes, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned with the adjustments made.

In summary, the baseline is the starting point and key reference for project management, ensuring that work is performed according to plan and that any deviations are effectively managed.