What is the purpose of software baselining?

The purpose of software baselining is to establish a reference point for a software project, which serves as a cutoff for making changes during the design phase. When a baseline is created, it marks a specific version of the software, including its requirements, design, and other significant elements. This reference allows the project team to track progress, implement control measures, and manage changes effectively.

By having a baseline, any modifications to the software must be carefully evaluated against the established version. This helps ensure that changes are necessary and beneficial, preventing scope creep and maintaining project integrity. It also provides clarity for stakeholders regarding what was agreed upon at that juncture in the project.

This practice is crucial in maintaining focus on original goals and timelines, as it effectively delineates what has been approved and what remains under consideration. Thus, it plays a key role in ensuring that the development process remains organized and aligns with the initial project objectives.