How are change orders used in professional practice?

• A. They are optional notes for internal records.
• B. They replace the original contract entirely.
• C. They formally document changes to scope, schedule, or fee, and require approval by client and appropriate signatories.
• D. They only document schedule changes.

Answer: (C)

Change orders are the formal way to handle adjustments to a project after the contract is in place. They document any agreed change to the scope of work, the project schedule, or the project fee, and they require approval by the client and the appropriate signatories. This makes the change part of the contract in a traceable, enforceable way, helping prevent misunderstandings or disputes about what was changed, by how much, and when it will be delivered. They do not replace the original contract; they modify it. For example, if a client asks for an additional feature, a change order records the new feature description, the updated cost, the revised timeline, acceptance criteria, and the required signatures. This keeps everyone aligned and accountable throughout the project.