IDEF ZERO

Node A6 · Acronym decoder

EVM

Earned Value Management

What it actually means

The program-control method that integrates scope, schedule, and cost into one baseline so progress can be measured objectively: work is budgeted in pieces, and you "earn" each piece's budgeted value when the work is done. Comparing earned value to planned value and actual cost yields the standard variances and indices — and an early, statistically stubborn warning of trouble.

Where you'll meet it

Required on large government contracts; the source of CPI, SPI, EAC, and monthly variance reports.

Related terms

← All systems engineering acronyms