How do you manage software project metrics and KPIs when things get unpredictable?

1 Choose the right metrics and KPIs

Not all metrics and KPIs are equally useful or relevant for every software project. You need to select the ones that align with your project goals, scope, and context. For example, if your project is agile, you might use metrics and KPIs related to velocity, sprint completion, backlog health, and customer satisfaction. If your project is waterfall, you might use metrics and KPIs related to schedule, budget, scope, and quality. You also need to consider the level of detail, frequency, and format of your metrics and KPIs, and how they will be collected, analyzed, and reported.

2 Adapt to changing conditions

Software projects are often affected by changes in requirements, priorities, resources, dependencies, and risks. These changes can impact your metrics and KPIs, and require you to adjust them accordingly. For example, if your project scope increases, you might need to revise your schedule, budget, and quality metrics and KPIs. If your project faces new risks, you might need to add or modify your risk metrics and KPIs. You should review your metrics and KPIs regularly, and update them as needed to reflect the current state of your project.

4 Communicate clearly and consistently

Software project metrics and KPIs are only useful if they are communicated clearly and consistently to the relevant stakeholders. You should establish a communication plan that defines who, what, when, where, why, and how you will share your metrics and KPIs. You should also use appropriate tools and techniques to present your metrics and KPIs in a meaningful and engaging way. For example, you can use dashboards, charts, graphs, tables, or reports to visualize your metrics and KPIs, and highlight trends, issues, or achievements. You should also provide context, explanations, and recommendations based on your metrics and KPIs, and solicit feedback and questions from your stakeholders.

5 Learn and improve

Software project metrics and KPIs are not only for tracking and reporting, but also for learning and improving. You should use your metrics and KPIs to evaluate your software project performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and discover opportunities and threats. You should also use your metrics and KPIs to compare your software project performance against your baselines, benchmarks, or best practices, and measure your progress, value, and impact. You should also use your metrics and KPIs to initiate and implement changes, actions, or improvements that will enhance your software project outcomes and benefits.