What is the S-Curve in Project Management?

Why an “S”?

The s-curve often forms its shape because the growth of the project in the beginning stages is usually slow. The wheels are just beginning to turn; team members are either researching the industry or just starting to engage in the first phase of execution, which can be slow before working out the kinks.

As more progress is made, the growth accelerates rapidly—creating that upward slope that forms the middle part of the “s.” This point of maximum growth is called the point of inflection. During this period, project team members are working heavily on the project, and many of the major costs are incurred. After the point of inflection, the growth begins to plateau, forming the upper part of the “s” known as the upper asymptote—and the “mature” phase of the project. This is because the project is mostly finished at this point and is winding down — typically only tasks such as finishing touches and final approvals are left at this point.

Common uses for the s-curve in project management

Some of the most common uses for s-curves are to measure progress, evaluate performance and make cash-flow forecasts.

An s-curve is helpful in monitoring the success of a project because real-time cumulative data of various project elements —such as cost—can be compared with projected data. The degree of alignment between the two graphs reveals the progress—or lack thereof—of whichever element is being studied. If corrections need to be made to get back on track, the s-curve can help identify them.

Further reading:

• 3 Ways to Create Your Project Manager Calendar
• Overcoming the Top Challenges of IT Project Management
• 3 Kinds of Data To Help Avoid Project Management Failure