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Cost Performance Index

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Definition:
A measure of cost efficiency in completing project work.

CPI = EV / AC​

Key Components:

  • Cost Efficiency Indicator: Values above 1 indicate cost savings, below 1 indicate overruns.
  • Budget Monitoring: Tracks financial performance.
  • Cost Forecasting: Helps predict final project costs.

Use Cases/Industries:

  • Construction: Monitoring spending efficiency on materials.
  • Energy Sector: Evaluating cost-effectiveness of equipment installation.
  • IT Projects: Assessing cost control in software development.

Advantages:

  • Helps prevent cost overruns.
  • Provides an early warning for financial risks.
  • Supports strategic cost management.

Challenges:

  • Can be skewed by inaccurate cost tracking.
  • Doesn’t account for work quality.

Related Terms:
Schedule Performance Index, Estimate to Complete, Earned Value

Example:
A CPI of 0.9 means the project is running over budget.

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Synonyms:
Cost Efficiency Ratio, Budget Performance Index, Expenditure Control Measure
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