Work Performance Information
Work performance information is the performance data collected from various controlling processes, analyzed in context, and integrated based on relationships across areas.
Explanation
Work performance information is the second level in the data-information-reports hierarchy. It is created when raw work performance data is analyzed and compared against the project management plan components such as baselines, performance measurement criteria, and thresholds. The result is contextualized information that shows whether the project is on track, behind, or ahead.
Examples of work performance information include schedule variance (SV) and cost variance (CV) from earned value analysis, the status of deliverables (complete, in progress, not started), the severity of quality defects, forecasted estimates at completion, and risk assessment updates. This information tells a meaningful story that raw data alone cannot.
Work performance information is produced by the various controlling processes — Control Schedule produces schedule performance information, Control Costs produces cost performance information, and so on. This information then flows into the Monitor and Control Project Work process, where it is integrated across all areas to produce a holistic view of project health.
Key Points
- •Analyzed and contextualized performance data
- •Second level in the data-information-reports hierarchy
- •Compares actual performance against baselines and plans
- •Includes variances, trends, forecasts, and status assessments
Exam Tip
If the exam describes analyzed data showing a variance or trend (e.g., "the project is 10% over budget"), that is work performance information — not raw data and not yet a report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Work Performance Data
Work performance data is the raw observations and measurements identified during activities performed to carry out the project work.
Work Performance Reports
Work performance reports are the physical or electronic representation of work performance information compiled in project documents, intended to generate decisions, actions, or awareness.
Monitoring and Controlling Process Group
The Monitoring and Controlling Process Group consists of processes required to track, review, and regulate the progress and performance of the project, identify areas where changes to the plan are needed, and initiate corresponding changes.
Baselines (Scope, Schedule, Cost)
A baseline is the approved version of a work product that can be changed only through formal change control procedures and is used as a basis for comparison to actual results.
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