Definition
Baselines are established points of reference used to measure performance or status against a known good state. They represent the agreed upon, documented characteristics of a system, project, or product at a specific time. In practice, baselines are created by capturing the initial state and then used for comparison as changes occur. This comparison is crucial for identifying deviations, managing scope creep, and ensuring project objectives remain on track. For instance, a project baseline might document the initial scope, schedule, and budget, allowing the team to track progress and control changes. Unlike a snapshot, which is a point in time, a baseline is a formally approved reference point that guides future actions. This concept is frequently tested in project management certifications like PMP and CAPM.