When planning project communications, communication requirements describe what information is needed and by whom. Communication requirements are defined by which main consideration?

Introduction / Context:
Effective communication planning ensures that project stakeholders receive the right information at the right time and in the right format. Communication requirements define what information various stakeholders need, how often, and in what form. This requires more than just counting stakeholders or picking tools; it involves considering the value of information to those who receive it.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The focus is on defining communication requirements. - Communication requirements describe information needs for stakeholders. - The question asks which consideration primarily defines these requirements. - Standard PMI communication planning practices apply.

Concept / Approach:
According to PMI guidance, communication requirements result from combining the type and format of information needed with an analysis of the value of that information. This means understanding what stakeholders need to know, how detailed it should be, and how its value justifies the effort of collecting and distributing it. While the number of stakeholders, locations, and communication technologies influence planning, the core requirement definition comes from matching information type and format to stakeholder value.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that communication requirements are about what information is needed, by whom, and how valuable it is. Step 2: Recognize that type and format of information must be aligned with stakeholder decision needs and responsibilities. Step 3: Look for the option that explicitly mentions combining type and format of information with analysis of its value. Step 4: Select that option as the best description of how communication requirements are defined.

Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, imagine creating a communication plan. You start by identifying stakeholders and understanding what decisions they must make. You then decide what information they need to make those decisions, in what format and frequency, and consider whether the cost of gathering and distributing that information is justified by its value. This matches the description of combining type and format with value analysis, not simply counting people or choosing tools.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A is wrong because adapting sender receiver models and listening styles is part of communication effectiveness, not the primary basis for defining requirements. Option B is wrong because logistics and locations influence communication planning but do not by themselves define information requirements. Option C is wrong because selecting technologies comes after understanding requirements; tools support but do not define what is needed. Option E is wrong because blindly copying historical plans ignores the unique information needs and value assessments of the current project.

Common Pitfalls:
A common pitfall is to start by choosing communication tools or formats without first understanding what stakeholders actually need. Another mistake is to generate excessive reports that add little value, increasing project overhead. Project managers should always tie communication requirements back to stakeholder needs and the value of the information, ensuring that every communication serves a clear purpose.

Final Answer:
Communication requirements are defined by combining the type and format of information required with an analysis of the value of that information to stakeholders.