What is the purpose of a change control process in project management?

The purpose of a change control process in project management centers around managing how changes are implemented. This process establishes a structured approach to evaluating, approving, and documenting any changes that may occur during the project lifecycle. By having a defined change control process, project managers can effectively assess the impact of a proposed change on project timelines, costs, and overall scope, ensuring that any modifications align with the project's goals and objectives.

This structured approach is critical for maintaining project stability, as it helps prevent unplanned changes from derailing the progress. It allows teams to make informed decisions about whether to accept a change, defer it, or reject it based on thorough analysis. The change control process fosters communication among stakeholders, promoting clarity and ensuring that everyone is aligned with the project's direction.

The other options may relate to project management concepts but do not capture the primary focus of the change control process. While a change control process can indirectly help in managing delays or project budgets, its core function is centered specifically on how changes are managed throughout the project, ensuring that any adjustments are handled systematically and efficiently.