How can you create a software project scope statement?

1 Define the project vision

The first step is to define the project vision, which is the overarching goal or purpose of the project. It should answer the questions: Why are you doing this project? What problem are you solving? What value are you creating? The project vision should be clear, concise, and compelling. It should also be aligned with the strategic objectives of the organization and the needs of the customers.

2 Identify the project stakeholders

The second step is to identify the project stakeholders, which are the people or groups who have an interest or influence in the project. They can be internal or external, and they can have different roles, expectations, and requirements. You should identify the key stakeholders, such as the sponsor, the customer, the team, and the end-users, and understand their needs, expectations, and communication preferences. You should also document their level of authority, involvement, and influence in the project.

3 Define the project deliverables

The third step is to define the project deliverables, which are the tangible or intangible products or services that the project will produce. They can be divided into two categories: the main deliverables, which are the final outputs that satisfy the customer's requirements, and the supporting deliverables, which are the intermediate outputs that help to complete the main deliverables. You should list the project deliverables, describe their features and functions, and specify their quality criteria and acceptance criteria.

4 Define the project boundaries

The fourth step is to define the project boundaries, which are the limits or constraints that define what the project will and will not do. They can be related to the scope, time, cost, quality, risk, or resources of the project. You should state the project boundaries clearly and explicitly, as they help to avoid scope creep, which is the uncontrolled expansion of the project scope due to changes or additions that are not authorized or approved. You should also identify the assumptions and dependencies that affect the project boundaries.

5 Define the project approach

The fifth step is to define the project approach, which is the method or strategy that you will use to execute the project. It should describe how you will plan, manage, and control the project activities, processes, and resources. It should also include the project life cycle, which is the sequence of phases or stages that the project will go through, and the project methodology, which is the set of principles, practices, and tools that you will use to deliver the project. You should choose a project approach that suits the nature, complexity, and size of the project.

6 Review and approve the project scope statement

The final step is to review and approve the project scope statement, which is the process of validating and verifying that the project scope statement is complete, accurate, and consistent. You should review the project scope statement with the key stakeholders, especially the sponsor and the customer, and get their feedback and approval. You should also document any changes or revisions that are made to the project scope statement, and communicate them to the relevant stakeholders.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?