Scope Verification
DE: Scope-Verifizierung
The process of formalizing acceptance of completed project deliverables.
Detailed Explanation
Scope verification (also called Validate Scope in PMBOK 5th+) is the process of formalizing acceptance of the completed project deliverables. It involves reviewing deliverables with the customer or sponsor to ensure they are completed satisfactorily and meet the acceptance criteria.
Scope verification is different from quality control. QC focuses on correctness (does it work properly?), while scope verification focuses on acceptance (does the stakeholder formally accept it?). A deliverable can pass QC but fail scope verification if it does not match stakeholder expectations.
The output of scope verification is accepted deliverables (formally signed off) or change requests (when deliverables need modification). The requirements traceability matrix is a key input — it ensures every requirement has a corresponding deliverable that has been verified.
Key Points
- Formalizes stakeholder acceptance of deliverables
- Different from QC: QC checks correctness, scope verification gets acceptance
- Uses acceptance criteria as the basis for verification
- Output: accepted deliverables or change requests
- Requirements traceability matrix is a key input
- Performed at each phase end and at project closure
Practical Example
A software project conducts scope verification at the end of each phase. For the reporting module, the PM walks the CFO through each report against the acceptance criteria. The CFO verifies that all 12 required reports are present and correct, signs the acceptance form, and the deliverable is formally marked as accepted in the project records.
Tips for Learning and Applying
Use the RTM to ensure every requirement has been addressed
Conduct scope verification formally with documented sign-off
Do QC before scope verification — do not present unreviewed work to stakeholders
Schedule scope verification at natural phase boundaries
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