An engineering approach for project scoping

Benefit realization is becoming a critical performance criterion measure for project success. However, the mechanism through which outputs eventually become outcomes has not yet been identified. This paper proposes that an output utilization mechanism is needed to explain the cause and effect relationship between a project´s outputs and target outcomes. The paper describes such a utilization mechanism, and discusses its role in the generation of target outcomes. By expanding on the concept of output utilization, the paper suggests the utilization map as a new tool for project scoping.