How do you avoid common pitfalls and errors when applying EVM?

2 Ignoring the baseline changes

Another common mistake when using EVM is to forget to update the baseline when there are changes in the project scope, schedule, or budget. This can result in inaccurate and misleading EVM metrics, such as cost variance (CV), schedule variance (SV), cost performance index (CPI), and schedule performance index (SPI). To avoid this error, you should follow a clear and consistent change management process that documents and approves any changes to the baseline, and that reflects them in the EVM calculations. You should also communicate the baseline changes to your project team and stakeholders, and explain how they affect the EVM results.

3 Misinterpreting the EVM data

A third common pitfall when using EVM is to misinterpret the EVM data or to rely on them too much without considering other factors and sources of information. For example, a positive CV or CPI does not necessarily mean that your project is under budget or performing well, as it may be due to scope reduction, quality issues, or delayed payments. Similarly, a negative SV or SPI does not necessarily mean that your project is behind schedule or performing poorly, as it may be due to changes in the priority, scope, or quality of the deliverables. To avoid this mistake, you should always analyze the EVM data in context, and use them as a complement to other project management tools and techniques, such as risk management, quality management, stakeholder management, and lessons learned.

4 Forgetting the human factor

A fourth common error when using EVM is to forget the human factor and the impact of motivation, communication, and collaboration on project performance. EVM is a quantitative and objective method, but it does not capture the qualitative and subjective aspects of project management, such as team morale, stakeholder satisfaction, customer feedback, and organizational culture. To avoid this error, you should not use EVM as a sole or primary tool for evaluating and rewarding your project team and stakeholders, but as a part of a balanced and holistic approach that considers both the hard and soft skills and factors that contribute to project success.

5 Not using EVM consistently and continuously

A fifth common pitfall when using EVM is to not use it consistently and continuously throughout the project lifecycle. EVM is not a one-time or occasional activity, but a regular and systematic process that requires planning, monitoring, controlling, and reporting. If you do not use EVM consistently and continuously, you may miss important trends and signals in your project performance, and lose the opportunity to make timely and informed decisions and adjustments. To avoid this pitfall, you should establish a clear and agreed-upon EVM framework and methodology for your project, and follow it from the initiation to the closure of your project. You should also review and update your EVM data and reports at least monthly, or more frequently if needed, and share them with your project team and stakeholders.