What is the primary purpose of a project charter?

The primary purpose of a project charter is to define and authorize the project at a high level. It acts as a foundational document that outlines the project's objectives, scope, stakeholders, and purpose, clearly establishing the framework within which the project will operate. By providing this overarching direction, the project charter ensures that all team members and stakeholders have a shared understanding of the project's intent and aligns their efforts toward achieving the defined goals.

Creating a project charter is essential because it not only facilitates a shared vision among stakeholders but also serves as a reference point throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring that any decisions or changes made later are consistent with the initial project intentions. While it may touch on aspects related to negotiation or task assignment, its main role revolves around providing authorization and a clear definition of the project itself. This structured approach helps mitigate misunderstandings and provides clarity, which is crucial for project success.