Project Controlling

Project controlling is a central component of project management that aims to ensure the achievement of project objectives and to minimize risks. It includes planning, controlling, monitoring, and analyzing projects to ensure an efficient and effective process. The following sections explain the basics, methods, and tools of project controlling, as well as its significance for project success.

Project Controlling: Definition and Basics

Project controlling is a central element of project management and deals with the systematic planning, controlling, monitoring, and analysis of projects. The aim of project controlling is to ensure the achievement of project objectives, to minimize risks, and to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of project execution. It thus supports project managers in decision-making and contributes significantly to project success.

Tasks of Project Controlling

The main tasks of project controlling can be divided into four areas:

 
1. Planning: In the planning phase, project objectives are defined and the necessary resources, costs, and schedules are determined. Project controlling creates detailed project planning, in which all relevant information is compiled.
 
2. Controlling: Controlling projects includes coordinating the individual project phases, monitoring deadlines, resources, and costs, and adjusting plans when deviations occur. Project controlling ensures that project objectives are met and that project execution is effective and efficient.
 
3. Monitoring: As part of monitoring, project controlling regularly checks the progress of the project and compares it with the planned specifications. Deviations are identified, and corrective measures are initiated.
 
4. Analysis: The analysis of projects involves the evaluation of project data, the identification of success factors and weaknesses, and the derivation of recommendations for action. Project controlling thus provides valuable information for optimizing project execution and for future projects.

Methods and Tools of Project Controlling

Various methods and tools are used in project controlling to support the planning, controlling, monitoring, and analysis of projects. These include, among others:

 
• Work Breakdown Structure (WBS): The WBS forms the basis for planning and controlling projects by structurally presenting the individual project phases, work packages, and milestones.
 
• Scheduling and Resource Planning: Scheduling and resource planning are used to determine the timing and resources required for the successful execution of projects.
 
• Cost Planning and Control: Cost planning and control serve to determine and monitor project costs and ensure that the project budget is adhered to.
 
• Risk Management: Within the framework of risk management, potential risks are identified, assessed, and minimized through appropriate measures.
 
• Quality Management: Quality management ensures that the quality standards defined in the project are maintained and continuously optimized.
 
• Reporting and Documentation: Regular reports and comprehensive documentation enable the monitoring of project progress and the analysis of project results.

Importance of Project Controlling for Project Success

Project controlling contributes significantly to project success by ensuring the achievement of objectives and minimizing risks. Effective project controlling ensures that projects can be completed on time, within budget, and at high quality. It supports project managers in making decisions and provides valuable information for optimizing project execution and for future projects.

Conclusion

Project controlling is a central part of project management that encompasses the planning, controlling, monitoring, and analysis of projects. Through the use of appropriate methods and tools, project controlling significantly contributes to project success and supports project managers in decision-making. The importance of project controlling for achieving objectives and minimizing risks should not be underestimated.