Which document is essential for managing changes to the project scope?

The change request form is essential for managing changes to the project scope because it provides a formal mechanism to request and document any alterations. When stakeholders identify a need to modify the project scope, the change request form captures the details of the proposed change, including the rationale, potential impacts on the project timeline, budget, and overall objectives. This structured approach ensures that all changes are evaluated systematically, allowing project managers to assess their implications before making decisions.

On the other hand, while the project charter outlines the initial scope, objectives, and stakeholders of the project, it does not serve as a tool for managing changes. The risk assessment matrix helps identify and evaluate potential risks, and a lessons learned report documents what was learned throughout the project for future reference, but neither of these directly facilitates the process of handling scope changes.