In the project management world, we often come across the terms of Project scope and product scope. Further, they are one of the important concepts for the exam and many people get confused between these two due to lack of clarity. So, Let’s dive in..
So, there are 3 terms
- Scope
- Product
- Project
It would be easy to understand project Scope and Product Scope if we have a clear understanding of what Scope, Product, and Project.
Scope
In simple terms, Scope is the details of the work that needs to be done or achieved.
You should understand that Scope is not the list of requirements. Check Scope VS Requirements if you feel confused.
Product
Dictionary meaning of Product is “An article or substance that is manufactured or refined for sale.”
PMBOK defines product as an artifact that is produced, is quantifiable, and can be either an end item in itself or a component item. Additional words for products are materials and goods. (PMBOK 6th Edition).
Project
PMBOK defines it as A temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service or result. Check this detailed post on What is a Project.
Now let’s see what Product Scope is, and what Project Scope is
Product Scope
PMBOK defines Product Scope as the features and functions that characterize a product, service, or result.
In simple terms, Product scope defines how the product looks, how its works, and its various features etc.
Example: Product is a Laptop, the Product scope is the details of screen size, Operating system, CPU, RAM, hard drive specifications etc.
Project Scope
It is the work performed to deliver a product, service, or result with the specified features and functions.
In simple words, Project Scope defines the features and functions of the product, and the work required to create and deliver the product.
The high level project scope is defined in the Project Charter, However, the detailed Project scope is developed by the Define scope process in the project planning phase. The detailed Project Scope is present in a document called Project Scope Statement, which is the output of “Define Scope” process.
Example:
Product = A Bridge
Product Scope = Specifications of the bridge such as length, height etc
Project Scope = Product Scope + Work needed to deliver the product (planning, coordination, procurement, and other works required for the development of the bridge with the required specifications).
Important
Completion of Product Scope is measured against Product Requirements.
Completion of Project Scope is measured against Project Management Plan.