To ensure successful project execution, which document is crucial for recording changes?

The change order is essential for recording changes during the execution of a project because it formally documents any alterations to the original scope of work agreed upon in the contract. This document serves multiple purposes: it defines what the change is, the reason for the change, and the adjustments needed for the project timeline, scope, or budget as a consequence of the change.

By utilizing a change order, both the contractor and client have a clear record of the modifications, which helps prevent disputes and ensures that all parties agree to the new terms. This maintains clarity and accountability throughout the project. Without this formal documentation, changes might go unrecorded or become sources of misunderstanding, potentially jeopardizing the project's success.

The other documents, while important in their own right, do not specifically serve the same purpose of formally recording changes to the project.