Baseline – When Should I Baseline My Project

A baseline is a snapshot of a certain time that captures the Start, Finish, Work, Cost and Duration.

So when should it be done?

In Microsoft project you should do a baseline 0 and 1,  once you have built out the WBS (Work Breakdown), resources are assigned, entered your work efforts, added any dependencies, constraints, deadlines, and the sponsor has agreed to the schedule.

To set a project Baseline:

  1. From the Project tab, click Set Baseline in the Schedule area.
  2. Select the Set Baseline ( if this is the first baseline select baseline 0 and 1)
  3. Select Entire Project
  4. Click OK
  set baselineset baseline

So when do you add a new one for your project.

You should only add a new one when you have an approved change order.

It is recommended never to overwrite an existing one, but to use one that you have not used.

Once time goes on, you will be able to view your Earned Value, and any variances you may have in your schedule.

Project Professional variance