What does the project scope statement define?

The project scope statement is a critical document in project management that clearly defines the project's deliverables, boundaries, goals, and overall approach. It serves as a foundational element that communicates what is included in the project and what is not, which helps prevent scope creep—where additional tasks or features are added without proper evaluation or agreement.

By detailing the specific deliverables, the project scope statement ensures that all stakeholders have a shared understanding of what will be produced. It also outlines the limitations of the project by defining boundaries, which helps to manage expectations and clarify the project's focus. This clarity is essential for aligning the team's efforts with the project's goals and objectives, ultimately guiding all subsequent planning and execution phases.

The other options address different aspects of project management, such as timeline and budget, team structure, and risk management. While these are also important components of project planning, they do not specifically pertain to the definition of the project scope. The scope statement is uniquely focused on defining what the project encompasses, which makes the chosen answer the most accurate representation of its purpose.