Which component typically defines the project's scope?

The project charter is a foundational document that formally authorizes the existence of a project and outlines its objectives. It typically includes a high-level description of the project’s scope, including the goals, deliverables, and the overall vision for what the project aims to achieve. By defining these aspects, the project charter serves as a guiding document that helps align stakeholders and ensures everyone has a shared understanding of the intended outcomes. It also establishes the framework for project planning and execution, thereby directly influencing scope management.

In contrast, while a Gantt chart is a valuable tool for scheduling tasks and tracking progress, it does not define the project scope. Similarly, a work breakdown structure provides a detailed view of the project’s deliverables and the tasks required to complete them, but it is developed based on the scope defined in the project charter. Lastly, stakeholder analysis focuses on identifying and analyzing the needs and expectations of those involved or affected by the project, which plays a role in shaping the project's objectives but does not define the scope itself. The project charter stands out as the primary document that encapsulates the project's scope clearly and formally.