Project Charter vs Project Plan in PMP
In PMP online training, understanding Project Charter vs Project Plan is vital. Many professionals mix up these two documents, but mastering their differences is key to PMP exam success and effective project execution.
🧾 What Is a Project Charter?
A Project Charter is the official document that authorizes a project. It provides the project manager with the authority to use resources to meet project goals.
Key Elements
- Purpose and objectives
- Key stakeholders
- High-level scope and deliverables
- Budget summary and timeline
- Project sponsor authorization
The Project Charter is created during the Initiating Phase of the PMBOK® framework.
📚 What Is a Project Plan?
A Project Plan (also called a Project Management Plan) is a comprehensive document outlining how the project will be executed, monitored, and closed.
Components
- Scope, Schedule, and Cost baselines
- Risk and Quality management
- Communication and Stakeholder plans
- Change control process
This plan is developed during the Planning Process Group and is regularly updated throughout the project lifecycle.
⚖️ Project Charter vs Project Plan: Key Differences
💡 Why PMP Professionals Should Know the Difference
Understanding Project Charter vs Project Plan helps PMP professionals connect theory with practice. During the PMP exam, multiple questions test whether you can identify which document is used when — and by whom.
In real-world scenarios, the Project Charter gives you the green light to start, while the Project Plan provides the roadmap to deliver.
