In project management, what is the purpose of a project charter?

A project charter serves as a foundational document that outlines a project's goals, objectives, and scope, and it establishes the authority and legitimacy of the project. It defines what the project aims to achieve and sets the stage for all subsequent project planning and execution activities. By clearly articulating the project's purpose, stakeholders give their approval and commitment, which helps ensure alignment and encouragement from all parties involved.

The project charter facilitates communication among stakeholders and provides them with a shared understanding of the project's intent and expected outcomes. Establishing authority through the charter also empowers the project manager to allocate resources effectively and make decisions to steer the project toward its goals.

Other options, while they might relate to project management in some capacity, do not capture the primary role of a project charter. For example, documenting team member evaluations, providing financial projections, or limiting stakeholder engagement are separate activities or components of project management that do not reflect the core purpose of the project charter.