What is a change request in project management?

A change request in project management is fundamentally a formal proposal to modify any project document or deliverable. This can encompass a wide range of changes, including adjusting the scope, altering the timeline, revising resource allocations, or changing specific deliverables. The essence of a change request lies in its formal nature, which ensures that any modifications to the project are documented, evaluated, and approved through the established change control process. This process is crucial for maintaining project integrity, as it involves assessing the impact of the proposed changes on various project aspects, including schedule, cost, and quality.

The other options, while related to project management, do not capture the full scope of what a change request entails. For example, a proposal to change the project timeline specifically addresses only one aspect of the project and does not encompass all potential changes that could be requested. Similarly, a method to assess project quality is part of quality management practices but does not relate directly to the formal modification process. A request for additional project funding concerns financial aspects rather than the broad spectrum of possible changes to the project framework or documents. Therefore, the definition of a change request as a formal proposal to modify project-related elements is the most comprehensive and accurate understanding in project management.