ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses some of the obstacles and issues typically encountered when developing project reports, and ways to overcome them. As much as the project team might want on-demand real-time reporting at the push of a button, the reality is that project data comes from many sources, and that causes a number of challenges when producing project reports. Challenges with manual data entry include the time required to enter information, and risks of duplication and human error. Challenges with external data include verification of accuracy and reliability, along with the issues with manual data entry. A particular challenge occurs when working with contractors to access data from their systems of record. Expert opinion is an oft-required input in project management and project controls systems, such as risk quantification, schedule durations, forecasting, and estimating. Experts make the project team, stakeholders, and other non-specialists feel better about uncertainty.
