LESSON 5-6: Setting the Original Baseline
This tutorial describes:
• Original Baseline
• How to create a Baseline
• How to compare the current and the baseline data
• Variance fields
• The differences between Baseline and Current schedule

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1. Original Baseline.
Use a baseline to create a record of project data at a given point in time. As the project progresses, compare its current values to the baseline to evaluate its performance. The first baseline created is the original baseline. This is typically done after the project plan is approved and before it starts.

2. Create a Baseline.
Use the Baselines page in Schedule to create and set project baselines. To add a baseline, enter a name and assign a type. The first Baseline must be set as the original. The Baseline will contain project data as it existed on the baseline date. By default, data will be taken from the current date. Capture data from the past by selecting a date all the way back to the project creation.
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3. Compare the current and the baseline data.
Compare the current and the baseline data on the Activities page to evaluate how well the project is progressing. Add columns for the original baseline dates, durations, and costs and compare them to the project's current values. 

4. Variance fields.
Variance fields calculate the difference between the current and baseline values. Add bars to the Gantt chart for a visual representation of the original baseline schedule.

5. Differences between Baseline and Current schedule.
Before the project starts, the Baseline and Current schedule are the same. As the project progresses, differences between the two can be seen. Here we see an activity that is scheduled to finish late as compared to the Original Baseline. Baseline data is also utilized in Scope. Note that setting the Original Baseline affects the way updates and changes can be made to Scope data.
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