Which element describes a change order?

• A. A unilateral decision by the contractor to change terms.
• B. A staff resignation.
• C. Modification of scope, price, or schedule in a controlled, written manner with mutual agreement.
• D. A rebranding of the project.

Answer: (C)

Change orders are formal, written modifications to a contract that adjust the project’s scope, price, or schedule and require mutual agreement. This precise description captures what a change order is: a controlled change documented in writing, with both parties agreeing to the new terms, so everyone stays aligned on what changes and how it affects cost and timing.

In practice, a change order prevents disputes by keeping the contract terms up to date and traceable. It isn’t a unilateral decision by the contractor, which would bypass the contract’s protections. It isn’t about staff resignations or cosmetic things like rebranding, which don’t modify the contract or project terms.