HBR Guide to Project Management (HBR Guide Series)

Chapter 16

Monitoring and Controlling Your Project

by Ray Sheen

Unlike processes—where the same people repeatedly perform the same activities—projects often involve unique activities (such as using new technologies, building new buildings, or writing new software) carried out by individuals who may be working together for the first time. So as a project leader, you’ll need to actively monitor progress to figure out whether your plan is really bringing the team closer to its objectives.

When monitoring and controlling a project, you’ll follow five basic steps:

1. Track project activities

It’s important to check in with team members regularly to make sure they’re completing their tasks and meeting quality standards. You can do this most effectively ...