Monitor and Control Project Work

1. Introduction

Monitoring and Controlling Project Work is an integration process that consolidates all monitoring and controlling efforts in a project. It ensures that the work being executed aligns with the project plan.

The key goal of this process is to answer the question: Are we on plan? It involves tracking progress, reviewing work, and making adjustments where necessary.

2. Understanding Monitor and Control Project Work

A. Integration of All Control Processes

• All monitoring and controlling processes roll up into this integration process.
• It consolidates insights from scope, schedule, cost, quality, risk, procurement, and stakeholder engagement.
• Example: Ensuring that a construction project stays within scope, meets its deadline, and remains within budget.

B. Key Monitoring Questions

• Is the work on scope?
• Are we on schedule?
• Are we within budget?
• Are we meeting quality standards?
• Are stakeholders engaged?
• Are there any risks impacting the project?

3. Key Components of Monitoring and Controlling

Component	Description	Example
Work Performance Data	Raw data collected during execution.	Number of hours worked on a project task.
Work Performance Information	Analyzed data that compares actual work to the plan.	Task completion percentage vs. planned schedule.
Work Performance Reports	Consolidated reports summarizing project status.	Weekly project health reports for stakeholders.
Change Requests	Requests to update the project plan if needed.	Extending project duration due to unforeseen delays.

4. Steps in Monitoring and Controlling Project Work

• Step 1: Track progress against the project plan.
• Step 2: Review deliverables and compare actual performance with expected results.
• Step 3: Identify deviations and determine if corrective action is needed.
• Step 4: Record findings in the Work Performance Reports.
• Step 5: If necessary, initiate a Change Request to update the project plan.

5. Example Scenario

Imagine a home renovation project where the initial plan allocated:

• Two weeks to complete painting.
• A budget of $2,000 for materials.

Halfway through, the project manager realizes:

• Painting is taking longer than expected.
• The cost of materials has exceeded the budget.

In response, a Change Request is submitted to adjust the budget and schedule.

6. Summary

• Monitoring and Controlling Project Work is an integration process that ensures project alignment.
• It consolidates data from multiple control processes.
• Key outputs include Work Performance Reports and Change Requests.
• Project managers must continuously monitor progress and adjust plans as needed.
• Regular communication is essential to keep stakeholders informed.

By effectively monitoring and controlling project work, teams can minimize risks, maintain efficiency, and achieve successful project completion.