There are many benefits to a project when timely reports are delivered to the correct people by the project management information system. One of the benefits is that the recipients will have a better understanding of the progress of corresponding activities (Meredith & Mantel, 2006). When activities are occurring parallel to each other, it can be easy for project personnel to be oblivious about activities not directly related to them. Therefore, receiving timely reports is important so that these people are informed and know the status of the project from other views.
Another benefit when timely reports are delivered to the proper people is that the project personnel better understand how their individual tasks relate to each other and to the project as a whole (Meredith & Mantel, 2006). Working on one activity or task of a project can create tunnel vision; the person is concerned with their part, but has no real understanding of how it fits in with other activities. By understanding the relationship and connection of individual tasks, project personnel are more knowledgeable about the project.
One important benefit is that timely reports provide the right people with advanced notice of possible problems or delays (Meredith & Mantel, 2006). It is the PM’s job to be aware of problems and curb them as quickly as possible before they completely disrupt the project. If a delay is foreseen, it is likely that the project’s schedule will be less affected if the right people are aware and can adjust the schedule or resources. Therefore, it is vital that timely reports get to the right people so the PM can stay ahead of the game in terms of problems and delays.
When a PM or senior manager rece ...