What is the primary role of baseline documentation in an Engineering Change Proposal (ECP)?

The primary role of baseline documentation in an Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) is to serve as a reference point for evaluating changes. This documentation establishes a clear and agreed-upon foundation of the project's specifications, design, and requirements at a particular point in time. It enables engineers and project managers to assess the impact of proposed changes accurately by comparing the modified aspects to the original baseline. By providing this reference point, baseline documentation ensures that the implications of changes are fully understood in terms of costs, schedules, performance, and overall project scope, facilitating informed decision-making.

Other elements such as enhancing the design process or outlining potential risks are certainly important in project management and engineering contexts but do not define the primary function of baseline documentation in relation to Engineering Change Proposals. Identifying project stakeholders is also vital but falls outside the specific purview of baseline documentation's role in evaluating engineering changes.