Project Cost Managers are generally concerned with detailed activities along a WBS. They are concerned with critical path methodology to control cost and schedule over-runs. They manage crews, resources and productivity to ensure the plan is followed or to make adjustments or changes to the plan when necessary. They look at earned value to determine if the project is living up to the expectation of the client. They ensure a project stays on budget. If it goes over or under budget significantly they want to know why, so they can fix it before it’s too late.
Accountants work on business and financial cycles usually corresponding to the month end, quarter end or year end. They look at the project according to cost accounts representing large buckets used on many projects. Accounts receivable and payable are of primary concern so that positive cash flow can be maintained, whenever possible. They are concerned with organization wide financials including account budgets and profit margins. Software is designed to serve the needs of specific disciplines. Accounting software serves the needs of accountants well.
- 1. Can an accounting system also serve the needs of a Project Manager?
- 2. Are your project managers able to perform the functions described using your current methods?
- 3. How much work is required just to get them the information they need when they need it?