Projects are typically pulled in three directions: 1) Stay within the budget, 2) meet the schedule, and 3) provide all the deliverables. The likelihood of successfully accommodating all three "pulls" is greatly increased if the project begins with preparation of a project work plan (PWP) and if project progress is periodically monitored with corrections applied as needed. (Preparation and use of PWPs is described in the ASCE web conference call seminar "Project Work Plans: Why and How?").
Monitoring project progress means being able to periodically know and compare what we planned to spend, what we actually spent, and what we've actually produced. With this information, the project manager can identify and build on success or, in contrast, identify problems and correct them. At any point in a project, managers typically know planned expenditures and actual expenditures but often are missing the third essential item, that is, the value of what has been produced. Therefore, they don't know the status of the project and, more specifically, are not able to see and correct looming budget and schedule problems.
The earned value methodology presented in this seminar leverages the value of accounting information. Furthermore, when project managers adopt the earned value approach, accounting departments, which often provide too much financial information to project managers, are like to take a fresh look at the quantity and quality of what they provide.
The earned value methodology can be readily added to a spreadsheet used to plan project tasks and budgets. However, commercially available software compatible with the methodology is available, and is noted in this seminar. Participants in this one hour seminar receive a handout summarizing the seminar. It also includes references to articles, books, e-newsletters, websites and other self-study materials. |
"It is a great format. It allows many of us to gather in the conference room during lunch hour to attend the seminar in a very efficient and limited timeframe. The hour length is fantastic. It fits into our brown bag lunch seminar plan."
"In an environment where time management is so crucial, it is wonderful to be able to attend a meaningful seminar with such little ancillary time commitments such as travel and coordination. My compliments. ASCE has found the perfect seminar format for today's busy professional." |
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Course Description
Develop your technical and management skills and earn PDHs/CEUs. By participating in ASCE Continuing Education, you can rest assured that the goals and objectives of your organization and staff will be met.
