Baseline Schedule
Scheduling Terms
Reviewed by forProject Technology - updated Sep 2026
Quick definition: The Baseline Schedule is the approved version of a project schedule. Schedule progress is measured against it.
The Baseline Schedule is the yardstick for measuring schedule progress. It can change, but only with formal management approval, usually after a change to the contract's scope or to internal conditions.
What this means for you
Without a Baseline Schedule, "ahead of schedule" and "behind schedule" have no meaning. It is the schedule counterpart to the cost-side Performance Measurement Baseline.
Also known as
N/A
Used in
Baseline slippage analysis; Performance Measurement Baseline
See also
FAQ
What's the difference between the Baseline Schedule and the Forecast Schedule?
The Baseline Schedule is the approved plan. The Forecast Schedule shows actual progress and the current forecast, updated each status cycle.
How often does the Baseline Schedule change?
Rarely, and only with formal management approval, usually after a change to the contract's scope or for internal management reasons.
Definition maintained by forProject Technology.
© 2026 forProject Technology, Inc.
© 2026 forProject Technology, Inc.
