When should determining the benefit of a change be done?

Determining the benefit of a change should be done before any document is drafted. This is crucial because understanding the potential impact and advantages of the proposed change informs the entire Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) process. By assessing benefits upfront, engineers and stakeholders can effectively prioritize changes, allocate resources appropriately, and ensure that the proposed modifications align with overall project objectives. This initial evaluation lays a solid foundation for justifying the change later in the ECP and facilitates smoother discussions with management and other stakeholders involved in decision-making.

Assessing benefits at the outset helps to avoid unnecessary documentation and efforts for changes that may not provide sufficient value, guiding the project team to focus on those proposals that will have the most significant positive impact. It also allows for a more structured evaluation of the change in terms of time, cost, and resources required to implement it, which is essential for forward planning and project success.