What does the baseline established by project performance criteria indicate?

The baseline established by project performance criteria primarily reflects the original project plan. This serves as a reference point against which the project's performance can be measured throughout its lifecycle. The baseline encompasses various elements, including scope, schedule, and cost, providing a comprehensive framework that helps in assessing how well the project is adhering to its initial goals and objectives.

When project managers reference the baseline, they can effectively track variances and manage deviations from the plan. This visibility is crucial for ensuring that the project remains on course and can facilitate informed decision-making when adjustments are necessary. Thus, understanding the baseline is vital for successful project management, as it lays the foundation for performance evaluation and control methods.

While other choices may refer to components that are part of the project planning process, none encapsulates the overall essence of what a performance baseline represents as comprehensively as the original project plan.