What do project performance criteria allow a project manager to identify?

Project performance criteria are essential metrics that allow a project manager to assess how well a project is progressing compared to its planned schedule, budget, and scope. By focusing on deviations from the project plan, these criteria help identify where the project may not be meeting its intended goals or timelines. This capability enables project managers to take corrective action and implement changes to get the project back on track.

Although understanding cost overruns, stakeholder dissatisfaction, and resource allocation failures is important, these issues often stem from broader deviations away from the overall project plan. Project performance criteria serve as early indicators of underlying issues, allowing the project manager to focus on the most critical aspects affecting the project's success. Thus, identifying deviations from the project plan is particularly crucial, as it lays the foundation for addressing various dimensions of project performance effectively.