HKSM
Monitor
Continuously gather information on how the project is performing, turn that information into meaningful metrics, and report and distribute the results to stakeholders.
Key Points
- Monitoring is an ongoing activity performed throughout the project lifecycle.
- Data sources include schedule, cost, scope, quality, risks, issues, and change logs.
- Outputs include performance metrics and trends (e.g., SPI, CPI, burn rates, dashboards).
- Monitoring observes and reports results; controlling uses those results to decide and implement actions.
Example
The project manager collects weekly actuals from team leads, updates the schedule and budget data, calculates SPI and CPI, and shares a status dashboard and summary report with sponsors and key stakeholders.
PMP Example Question
Which activity best represents the Monitor function in project management?
- Gathering performance data, generating metrics, and distributing the results to stakeholders
- Approving change requests and updating the project management plan
- Developing the work breakdown structure for the project
- Executing corrective actions to realign the project with the plan
Correct Answer: A — Gathering data, creating metrics, and sharing performance information
Explanation: Monitoring focuses on collecting and analyzing performance information and communicating it. Actions like approving changes or implementing corrections belong to controlling or executing.
