Cost variance represents the difference between the budgeted cost of work performed and the actual cost of that work. A positive variance indicates that the work cost less than planned, while a negative variance suggests that the project is over budget. This metric is a key performance indicator used in project management to assess the efficiency of cost control measures.
Understanding cost variance is critical for maintaining financial health within a project. It allows project managers to proactively identify and address potential budget overruns, implement corrective actions, and improve future cost estimations. Historically, effective variance analysis has been a cornerstone of successful project delivery, enabling organizations to manage resources and maximize profitability.