Which document is a type of project issue paper that typically requires approval from a higher authority?

Which document is a type of project issue paper that typically requires approval from a higher authority?

• A. Baseline the metric
• B. Decision paper
• C. Exit criteria
• D. Team-building training

Answer: (B)

A decision paper is used to escalate an issue and obtain authorization from someone with higher authority. It brings together the background, the options with their impacts, a recommended course of action, and the specific decision or approval being requested. This focused, governance-oriented document helps sponsors or steering committees make informed choices and take accountability for the path forward. Baseline the metric is about establishing a starting point for performance measures, not a request for approval. Exit criteria describe what must be achieved to close a phase or the project, not a decision request. Team-building training is a development activity, not a governance document used to secure approvals.

A decision paper is used to escalate an issue and obtain authorization from someone with higher authority. It brings together the background, the options with their impacts, a recommended course of action, and the specific decision or approval being requested. This focused, governance-oriented document helps sponsors or steering committees make informed choices and take accountability for the path forward.

Baseline the metric is about establishing a starting point for performance measures, not a request for approval. Exit criteria describe what must be achieved to close a phase or the project, not a decision request. Team-building training is a development activity, not a governance document used to secure approvals.