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Module 1: Introduction to project execution

Tracking and measuring project progress

The importance of tracking

• Tracking project progress is crucial for project management. It involves following the progress of project activities and measuring performance regularly to identify deviations from the project plan.
• Purpose of Tracking: To ensure the project stays on track, maintain transparency, manage risks effectively, and build confidence in the project's success.

Types of Deviations:

• Deviations from the project plan can be positive or negative.
• Positive deviations, like completing tasks ahead of schedule, are beneficial, while negative deviations, such as unexpected setbacks, can impede progress.

Benefits of Tracking:

• Transparency: Tracking centralizes project information, making key project details transparent to all stakeholders, which aids in accurate decision-making.
• Deadline and Goal Visibility: It keeps team members and stakeholders informed about deadlines and project goals, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding progress.
• Risk Management: Tracking helps identify risks and issues promptly, allowing the team to take corrective action in a timely manner.
• Confidence Building: It builds confidence among team members that the project will be delivered on time, within scope, and within budget, keeping the team motivated and focused.

Common things to be tracked during project execution:

1. Project Schedule:
   • Track tasks and activities to ensure the project progresses effectively towards its completion date, aiming to deliver the project's deliverables on time.
2. Task Progress and Milestones:
   • Monitor the status of action items, key tasks, and activities to ensure work is being completed and progress is made towards milestones.
3. Costs:
   • Track project costs to ensure they align with the budget, avoiding overspending or underspending on tasks and resources with budget implications.