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.