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Schedule Variance (SV)

An indicator of schedule performance calculated as earned value (EV) minus planned value (PV).

Key Points

  • Formula: SV = EV - PV; positive SV means ahead of schedule, negative SV means behind, zero means on plan.
  • SV uses the same units as EV and PV (e.g., dollars, labor hours), not time units.
  • Use with SPI (EV/PV) and trend analysis for better context; SV alone does not reveal critical path status.
  • At project completion SV = 0 because EV equals PV; early fluctuations can reflect baseline distribution.

Example

At month 4, PV = $200,000 and EV = $180,000. SV = 180,000 - 200,000 = -$20,000, indicating the project is behind schedule by $20,000 worth of planned work.

PMP Example Question

At the end of month 3, EV = $750,000, PV = $600,000, and AC = $800,000. What does the schedule status indicate based on SV?

  1. SV = -$150,000; the project is behind schedule.
  2. SV = +$150,000; the project is ahead of schedule.
  3. SV = -$200,000; the project has a cost overrun.
  4. Schedule status cannot be determined without the BAC.

Correct Answer: B — SV = EV - PV = +$150,000; ahead of schedule

Explanation: SV compares earned value to planned value. Since EV exceeds PV by $150,000, the project is ahead of schedule.

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This is not abstract theory. You’ll work step by step through Earned Value Management (EVM), learning how cost, schedule, and scope come together to show true performance. You’ll build a solid foundation in EVM concepts, understand why formulas work, and learn how performance data actually supports leadership decisions.

You’ll master Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), control accounts, and budget baselines, then apply core EVM metrics like EAC, TCPI, and variance analysis. Through a detailed real-world example, you’ll forecast outcomes, analyze trends, and understand contingencies and management reserves with confidence.

Learn how experienced project managers monitor performance, communicate results clearly, and take corrective action before projects slip. With practical exercises and hands-on analysis, you’ll be ready to apply EVM immediately. Enroll now and start managing performance with clarity and control.



Take Control of Project Performance!

HK School of Management helps you go beyond status reports and gut feelings. In this advanced course, you’ll master Earned Value Management (EVM) to objectively measure progress, forecast outcomes, and take corrective action with confidence. Learn how WBS quality drives performance, how control accounts really work, and how to use EAC, TCPI, and variance analysis to make smarter decisions—before projects drift off track. Built around real-world examples and hands-on exercises, this course gives you practical tools you can apply immediately. Backed by our 30-day money-back guarantee—low risk, high impact for serious project professionals.

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