As a result, the pressure on IT chiefs to ensure a project remains within budget is so great that this measurement becomes the key project focus, explained David Groves, head of the Clarity division at CA.
However, Groves argued that IT directors instead need to concentrate on how projects can deliver measurable value and be mapped on key business goals.
Groves added that the use of spreadsheets by IT chiefs to plan a project gives them a lack of visibility and control, and makes it difficult to link aspects of the work. Instead they should adopt project portfolio management tools to get a strong view across all projects and how they align to business needs, Groves advised.
Large companies focus on an average of 29 projects at any one time, and this further obstructs project visibility, the research showed. Groves said only running necessary projects and investing in project management training will help businesses stay within budget.