What is the purpose of a Project Management Information System (PMIS)?

A Project Management Information System (PMIS) serves a critical function by facilitating the monitoring and control of project cost and schedule performance. This system integrates and analyzes various data sources related to a project, allowing project managers and stakeholders to track progress accurately against the established baselines for time and budget. Through these capabilities, PMIS helps identify variances, assess the impact of potential changes, and make informed decisions based on real-time information.

While coordinating team meetings, compiling project documentation, and enforcing project rules are important activities in project management, they do not encompass the core purpose of a PMIS. The system is fundamentally designed to provide a structured approach to evaluating performance and ensuring that projects stay aligned with their objectives. Thus, the emphasis on cost and schedule performance is essential for effective project management and successful project outcomes.