What is project controls on a construction job?
Project controls is the daily work of tracking cost, programme, scope and change, so the project team sees problems early. Done well, it also builds the records that win claims.
What it covers
- Cost control: budget, forecast, commitments and cash flow.
- Schedule control: baseline, updates and critical path.
- Scope and change control: variations, RFIs and instructions.
- Risk and reporting: a clear weekly view for decision makers.
Why it links to claims
Every claim rests on three things: what the contract required, what changed, and what it cost. Project controls records all three while the job runs. Without it, the claim must be rebuilt later from scattered files.
Do small projects need it?
A light version does. One register of changes, one updated programme and one cost forecast, checked every week, is enough for many jobs. The need grows with the number of projects and the rate of change.
Related answers
Questions
Is project controls the same as project management?
No. Project management runs the job. Project controls measures and reports on it.
Can project controls be outsourced?
Yes. Many firms buy it as a service when they have several projects and not enough staff.
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