Data and Work Performance: Key Inputs and Outputs in

PMBOK v8 Definition

Work performance data represents raw observations and measurements identified during project activities, such as quality control measurements and verified deliverables. Work performance information is the processed output from analyzing work performance data, providing performance reports, schedule forecasts, and cost forecasts. Work performance reports are the physical or electronic representation of work performance information compiled into project documents or dashboards.

Why It Matters for the Exam

The distinction between work performance data, work performance information, and work performance reports is tested frequently in PMI exam questions about monitoring and controlling processes. Questions often appear in situational scenarios where you must identify which type of performance data is being used as an input or output for a specific process.

Key Points to Remember (for the exam)

• Main Input: Work performance data is a key input to multiple processes including Control Quality, Monitor Risks, and Develop Schedule
• Main Output: Work performance information is the output produced after analyzing work performance data through tools like earned value analysis and trend analysis
• Key Tool: Data analysis techniques (variance analysis, trend analysis, root cause analysis) transform work performance data into work performance information
• Common Confusion: Work performance data (raw) vs. work performance information (analyzed) vs. work performance reports (compiled)
• Critical Output Path: Work performance data → Data analysis → Work performance information → Performance reviews → Work performance reports
• Quality Context: Quality control measurements are a specific type of work performance data used in Control Quality process
• Document Updates: Work performance information triggers updates to project documents including risk register, issue log, and lessons learned register

Typical PMI Exam Example

A project manager receives raw data showing 80% of deliverables completed versus a planned 75%. This is work performance data. After analyzing the variance and trends, the project manager determines the project is ahead of schedule—this becomes work performance information. The project manager then compiles this into a dashboard for stakeholders as a work performance report.

PMI Exam Traps

• Trap: Confusing work performance data with work performance information

• Reality: Work performance data is raw (e.g., quality control measurements), while work performance information is analyzed (e.g., variance analysis results)

• Trap: Thinking work performance reports are the same as work performance information

• Reality: Work performance information becomes an input to create work performance reports, which are compiled representations

• Trap: Assuming all processes use the same type of performance data

• Reality: Control Quality uses quality control measurements specifically, while Monitor Risks uses work performance data and work performance reports

• Trap: Forgetting that verified deliverables are also work performance data

• Reality: Verified deliverables from Control Quality process serve as work performance data inputs to other processes

Important PMI Connections

Quick Review Questions

1. What is the difference between work performance data and work performance information in terms of processing?

2. Which specific type of work performance data is used as an input to the Control Quality process?

3. What tools and techniques transform work performance data into work performance information?

4. Which project documents are updated when work performance information is produced?

5. How do work performance reports differ from work performance information in their purpose and format?

PMBOK v8 Reference

Section 2.5 - Data, Information, and Reports (Work Performance Data, Work Performance Information, Work Performance Reports)

The context provided references multiple figures showing work performance data as inputs and work performance information as outputs across processes including Control Quality (Figure 2-17), Develop Schedule (Figure 2-18), Monitor Risks, and performance reporting processes.