Project Scope

"They say all marriages are made in heaven, but so are thunder and lightning."

- Clint Eastwood



The other day at work I was writing a project scope document for a new set of programs, and I wondered what a project scope document for other parts of life would be like. 

A project scope document is intended to outline what a project hopes to achieve, and more importantly what the project will not do.  It says who is affected by the project and what they will receive.  It should also give a brief history of the project.

I wondered, what would a project scope document for my marriage be like? Guess I'm just a romantic at heart.

Project Scope – Marriage of Matthew & Gina

Nov 12, 2013

1. Project Background and Description

describe how the project came about, who is involved, and the purpose

This project started as a mutual interest in photography.  After being added to a group devoted to photography enthusiasts Matthew was soon receiving numerous requests from Gina for more information on the photos he shared.

In the initial phase he was somewhat annoyed by all the questioning, but soon realized it signified that she was indeed examining his photos in great detail.

By the end of the 1st quarter a friendship had developed.  The normal process of this friendship consisted largely of an informal exchange of comments on the previously mentioned social group, along with Gina frequently defeating Matthew soundly in a game of Scrabble.

As the relationship progressed the love paradigm was established.  It became apparent that moving forward into a marital paradigm was essential for maximizing gratification.
 

2. Project Scope

define the boundaries of the project, what will be done, what will not be done

A. The marital relationship should be a source of support and comfort, of happiness and togetherness. 

B. This relationship must not be possessive, as such feelings are not fit for purpose, nor appropriate to the marriage place. 

3. High-Level Requirements

describe high level requirements, “what will we achieve”

Happiness. Outcome is dependent on many factors, primarily mutual respect and friendship.
 

4. Deliverables

what each stake holder will receive

A. Love.
B. Respect.
C. Support.
D. Comfort.
E. Friendship
F. Occasional tickling
 

5. Affected Parties

what individuals and/or processes will be affected

This project will be a life long project.  It is not expected to have a sharply defined attainable goal, but rather an ongoing pursuit of happiness.

The beta testing for this project has been highly promising.  As the project moves into the production phase an increase in contentment is expected.

 

Of course I would not seriously equate marriage with a business project.  For one thing, a business project is about making money.  Plus in most companies there's one Chief Executive Officer.

 

In a good marriage there are none.