Last updated: 2025-06-06

Cost Control is a part of cost management focused on monitoring, comparing actual vs. planned costs, and taking corrective actions. 

Definition of Cost Control Just for Business Humans:

  • Cost control is like using the steering wheel and brakes on a road trip: You check where you are (actual costs), compare it to where you planned to be (budget), and make course corrections if you’re going off-track.

It involves:

        • Comparing actual vs. planned costs (a.k.a. variance analysis)
        • Adjusting scope, timeline, or budget when needed
        • Using tools like earned value management, cost forecasts, and change control to stay in control

        The goal?


        • Avoid surprises, stay on budget, and keep your project from veering off the road.