What is the purpose of establishing planning and baselines early in an initiative's life cycle?

The purpose of establishing planning and baselines early in an initiative's life cycle is fundamentally to maximize control and minimize risk. Early planning provides a structured approach to guide the project’s trajectory, allowing stakeholders to align on objectives, scope, resources, and timelines. By laying down these baselines, teams can monitor progress against established metrics, anticipate potential issues, and implement corrective measures in a timely manner.

When baselines are set, they create a reference point for performance measurement, enabling project managers and teams to assess whether they are on track to meet their goals. This proactive stance helps in identifying and mitigating risks before they escalate into more significant problems that could jeopardize project timelines, budgets, or deliverables. Ultimately, the early establishment of planning and baselines fosters accountability and enhances overall project governance, which are crucial for successful project outcomes.