Category: Contracts & management
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
The baseline programme is the schedule approved at the start of the project, with its activities, durations and logic, against which progress and delay are measured.
Why it matters on a project
Without an approved baseline, delay cannot be proven and extensions cannot be claimed. It is usually prepared in Primavera P6.
Common mistake
Building a programme with large summary activities and too little detail, so it cannot track progress or analyse delay.
Frequently asked questions
Which software is used for the programme?
Primavera P6 is the most requested on large and government projects; MS Project on smaller ones.
Is the baseline changed?
No. The current programme is updated and compared with it; a new baseline needs formal approval.
Related terms
- Critical pathThe sequence of activities where any delay delays project completion.
- Extension of time (EOT)The contractor’s entitlement to additional time for delay not of its making, subject to timely notice.
- Delay damages (liquidated damages)An agreed sum deducted per day of delay after the contractual completion date, capped in the contract.
- Minutes of meeting (MOM)A written record of what was discussed and decided, with the owner and due date of each action.
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