Monitor and Control Project Work: A Comprehensive Guide

Monitor and Control Project Work is an essential process in project management, described in detail in the PMBOK Guide Seventh Edition. It involves tracking, reviewing, and reporting the progress to meet the performance objectives defined in the project management plan.
Importance: Monitoring and controlling the project work is crucial, as it ensures that project execution aligns with the plan. It helps identify potential problems timely and take corrective actions. Moreover, it controls changes and recommends preventive action in context with the project integrated change control processes.
How it Works: The project manager regularly reviews project reports, monitors risks and issues, performs earned value analysis, and uses other tracking tools to monitor the progress. Variances from the plan are identified and corrective actions are planned and implemented.
Exam Tips: For exam questions, understand that monitoring and controlling work largely involves measuring performance, analyzing variances, and implementing changes when required. Be familiar with the tools and techniques used for controlling project work like Expert Judgement, Data Analysis, and Meetings.
To answer the questions effectively, always refer to the PMBOK guide and understand the five process groups, particularly the Monitoring and Controlling group. Remember, it is an iterative process throughout the project.
For multiple-choice questions, understand the question clearly, consider all choices before making a selection, and lean towards choices that highlight the need for analysis, handling changes, and continuous improvement.
Note: Monitor and Control Project Work is all about ensuring the project stays on track and any deviations are managed effectively.