Quick Overview
- 1#1: Deltek Cobra - Provides comprehensive earned value management for schedule and cost variance analysis, forecasting, and compliance with ANSI/EIA-748 standards.
- 2#2: EcoSys - Delivers enterprise-level project controls with advanced EVM metrics, cost management, and performance reporting for large-scale projects.
- 3#3: Deltek Acumen - Offers forensic schedule and cost analytics using EVM data to identify risks, variances, and improvement opportunities in projects.
- 4#4: STANTEC Empower - Streamlines EVM processes by integrating schedule, cost, and performance data for real-time project health monitoring and reporting.
- 5#5: Visto - Cloud-based EVM solution that automates data collection, calculates key performance indicators, and generates compliant EVM reports.
- 6#6: Oracle Primavera P6 - Enterprise project portfolio management software with robust EVM features for tracking progress, costs, and schedules across portfolios.
- 7#7: Microsoft Project - Project management tool with built-in earned value analysis for monitoring cost performance index, schedule performance index, and variances.
- 8#8: SAP S/4HANA Project Management - Integrates EVM capabilities within ERP for end-to-end project controlling, budgeting, and performance measurement.
- 9#9: Planview AdaptiveWork - Work and resource management platform supporting EVM metrics for project delivery and portfolio optimization.
- 10#10: Saviom - Resource and project management software with EVM tracking to forecast project outcomes and improve profitability.
Tools were evaluated based on robust EVM functionality (including variance analysis, forecasting, and compliance), scalability, user experience, and value in enhancing efficiency and profitability.
Comparison Table
Earned Value Management (EVM) software is essential for effective project tracking and performance analysis, with a range of tools available to meet diverse needs. This comparison table features leading options like Deltek Cobra, EcoSys, Deltek Acumen, STANTEC Empower, Visto, and more, examining key features, strengths, and ideal use cases to help readers identify the right fit for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deltek Cobra Provides comprehensive earned value management for schedule and cost variance analysis, forecasting, and compliance with ANSI/EIA-748 standards. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | EcoSys Delivers enterprise-level project controls with advanced EVM metrics, cost management, and performance reporting for large-scale projects. | enterprise | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Deltek Acumen Offers forensic schedule and cost analytics using EVM data to identify risks, variances, and improvement opportunities in projects. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | STANTEC Empower Streamlines EVM processes by integrating schedule, cost, and performance data for real-time project health monitoring and reporting. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 5 | Visto Cloud-based EVM solution that automates data collection, calculates key performance indicators, and generates compliant EVM reports. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 6 | Oracle Primavera P6 Enterprise project portfolio management software with robust EVM features for tracking progress, costs, and schedules across portfolios. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Microsoft Project Project management tool with built-in earned value analysis for monitoring cost performance index, schedule performance index, and variances. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | SAP S/4HANA Project Management Integrates EVM capabilities within ERP for end-to-end project controlling, budgeting, and performance measurement. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.1/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 9 | Planview AdaptiveWork Work and resource management platform supporting EVM metrics for project delivery and portfolio optimization. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Saviom Resource and project management software with EVM tracking to forecast project outcomes and improve profitability. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.1/10 |
Provides comprehensive earned value management for schedule and cost variance analysis, forecasting, and compliance with ANSI/EIA-748 standards.
Delivers enterprise-level project controls with advanced EVM metrics, cost management, and performance reporting for large-scale projects.
Offers forensic schedule and cost analytics using EVM data to identify risks, variances, and improvement opportunities in projects.
Streamlines EVM processes by integrating schedule, cost, and performance data for real-time project health monitoring and reporting.
Cloud-based EVM solution that automates data collection, calculates key performance indicators, and generates compliant EVM reports.
Enterprise project portfolio management software with robust EVM features for tracking progress, costs, and schedules across portfolios.
Project management tool with built-in earned value analysis for monitoring cost performance index, schedule performance index, and variances.
Integrates EVM capabilities within ERP for end-to-end project controlling, budgeting, and performance measurement.
Work and resource management platform supporting EVM metrics for project delivery and portfolio optimization.
Resource and project management software with EVM tracking to forecast project outcomes and improve profitability.
Deltek Cobra
specializedProvides comprehensive earned value management for schedule and cost variance analysis, forecasting, and compliance with ANSI/EIA-748 standards.
Advanced Discrete Rate Loader for precise resource loading and multi-level budgeting across work breakdown structures
Deltek Cobra is a leading Earned Value Management (EVM) software solution tailored for complex projects in government, defense, and engineering sectors. It excels in tracking project performance through key EVM metrics like BCWS, BCWP, ACWP, Schedule Variance (SV), Cost Variance (CV), and SPI/CPI ratios, while ensuring compliance with ANSI/EIA-748 standards. Cobra supports budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and integrates deeply with scheduling tools like Oracle Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project, as well as Deltek's ERP systems like Costpoint.
Pros
- Comprehensive EVM compliance and audit-ready reporting
- Powerful forecasting with multiple methods including earned value trend analysis
- Seamless integrations with Deltek suite, Primavera P6, and MS Project
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- High implementation and customization costs
- Requires significant IT setup for large-scale deployments
Best For
Large government contractors and engineering firms managing multi-million-dollar projects with strict EVM compliance requirements.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically annual subscriptions starting at $50,000+ based on users, projects, and modules—contact Deltek for quotes.
EcoSys
enterpriseDelivers enterprise-level project controls with advanced EVM metrics, cost management, and performance reporting for large-scale projects.
Integrated Continuous Performance Improvement (CPI) engine for real-time EVM calculations and probabilistic forecasting
EcoSys is an enterprise-class project controls platform specializing in Earned Value Management (EVM) for large-scale capital projects. It delivers full ANSI/EIA-748 compliance with advanced cost and schedule performance measurement, variance analysis, forecasting, and reporting capabilities. The software integrates planning, budgeting, risk management, and change control into a unified system, providing real-time dashboards and analytics for project teams.
Pros
- Comprehensive EVM compliance with automated variance analysis and forecasting
- Seamless integration with Primavera P6, SAP, and other enterprise tools
- Scalable for mega-projects with real-time data synchronization and dashboards
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring specialized training
- High enterprise-level pricing not suitable for small projects
- Implementation can take months for full deployment
Best For
Large enterprises and government contractors managing complex, multi-billion-dollar capital projects in industries like energy, infrastructure, and defense.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically annual subscriptions starting at $100,000+ based on users, projects, and modules.
Deltek Acumen
specializedOffers forensic schedule and cost analytics using EVM data to identify risks, variances, and improvement opportunities in projects.
Automated Schedule Health Check with over 75 diagnostic metrics to proactively identify and resolve EVM-impacting issues
Deltek Acumen is a sophisticated project analytics platform specializing in Earned Value Management (EVM), schedule risk analysis, and forensic project controls. It integrates deeply with tools like Oracle Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project to deliver precise EVM metrics such as CPI, SPI, cost variances, and schedule performance indexing. Acumen enables predictive forecasting, risk mitigation, and compliance reporting for complex projects, helping managers diagnose issues and optimize outcomes.
Pros
- Comprehensive EVM metrics and automated variance analysis
- Seamless integration with P6 and MS Project for real-time data
- Advanced forensic tools for schedule health and risk forecasting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- High enterprise-level pricing limits accessibility
- Overkill for small projects without complex EVM needs
Best For
Large government contractors and engineering firms handling multi-million-dollar projects with strict EVM and DCAA compliance requirements.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically $5,000+ annually per project or concurrent user, with volume discounts available.
STANTEC Empower
specializedStreamlines EVM processes by integrating schedule, cost, and performance data for real-time project health monitoring and reporting.
Native BIM-EVM integration for visual progress tracking tied to cost/schedule performance
STANTEC Empower is a cloud-based project delivery platform from Stantec, tailored for engineering and construction projects with built-in Earned Value Management (EVM) capabilities. It integrates schedule, cost, and performance data to track metrics like CPI, SPI, EV, PV, and AC, enabling variance analysis and forecasting. The tool supports real-time collaboration, reporting, and integration with BIM workflows for infrastructure and AECO projects.
Pros
- Strong EVM dashboards with automated CPI/SPI calculations
- Seamless integration with Stantec's project controls and BIM tools
- Real-time cloud collaboration for distributed teams
Cons
- Limited flexibility for non-Stantec workflows and custom EVM rules
- Steep learning curve for users outside engineering/construction
- Pricing lacks transparency and is enterprise-focused
Best For
Mid-to-large engineering firms handling complex infrastructure projects that align with Stantec's ecosystem.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription pricing available upon request; typically custom quotes starting at $50-100/user/month for full features.
Visto
specializedCloud-based EVM solution that automates data collection, calculates key performance indicators, and generates compliant EVM reports.
Live collaborative Gantt charts with overlaid real-time EVM metrics and variance analysis
Visto (myvisto.com) is a cloud-based collaborative project planning and controls platform designed for engineering, construction, and EPC projects, with built-in support for Earned Value Management (EVM). It enables real-time schedule collaboration, progress tracking, and EVM analysis including metrics like Planned Value (PV), Earned Value (EV), Actual Cost (AC), CPI, and SPI via interactive Gantt charts and dashboards. The tool integrates with Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, and Excel, facilitating data import/export for comprehensive project performance monitoring.
Pros
- Real-time collaborative editing of schedules and EVM data by multiple users
- Robust EVM dashboards with variance analysis, forecasting, and customizable reports
- Seamless integrations with P6, MS Project, and Excel for easy data flow
Cons
- Enterprise-level pricing may be steep for small teams or simple projects
- Learning curve for advanced EVM setup and custom forecasting models
- Limited native mobile app; primarily web-based with basic mobile access
Best For
Mid-to-large engineering, construction, or EPC teams needing collaborative real-time EVM tracking and schedule management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on users, projects, and storage; typically starts around $50-100/user/month with annual contracts—contact sales for quotes.
Oracle Primavera P6
enterpriseEnterprise project portfolio management software with robust EVM features for tracking progress, costs, and schedules across portfolios.
Advanced earned value forecasting with 'what-if' scenario modeling and threshold-based alerts
Oracle Primavera P6 is a robust enterprise project management solution renowned for its Earned Value Management (EVM) capabilities, enabling precise tracking of project performance through metrics like Schedule Performance Index (SPI), Cost Performance Index (CPI), and Estimate at Completion (EAC). It supports complex scheduling with Critical Path Method (CPM), baseline comparisons, variance analysis, and customizable progress curves for large-scale projects in industries like construction and engineering. The software integrates resource, cost, and risk management to provide comprehensive visibility into project health and forecasting.
Pros
- Comprehensive EVM metrics with automated calculations, variance analysis, and S-curves
- Scalable for massive portfolios with multi-project support and global data sharing
- Strong integration with ERP systems and advanced reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training for effective use
- High upfront and ongoing costs, including licensing and implementation
- Resource-heavy interface that can overwhelm smaller teams
Best For
Large enterprises and government contractors handling complex, multi-million-dollar projects that demand strict EVM compliance and detailed performance reporting.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing starts at ~$3,500 per user (perpetual) or $100+/user/month for cloud; plus annual maintenance (~20%) and implementation fees.
Microsoft Project
enterpriseProject management tool with built-in earned value analysis for monitoring cost performance index, schedule performance index, and variances.
Dynamic baseline management with automated EVM calculations tied directly to Gantt schedules and resource assignments
Microsoft Project is a robust project management software with built-in Earned Value Management (EVM) capabilities, enabling users to track planned value, earned value, and actual costs against baselines. It computes essential EVM metrics like Cost Performance Index (CPI), Schedule Performance Index (SPI), variances, and forecasts such as Estimate at Completion (EAC). The tool excels in integrating EVM with Gantt charts, resource management, and reporting for comprehensive project performance analysis.
Pros
- Comprehensive EVM metrics including CPI, SPI, CV, SV, and forecasting tools
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365, Excel, and Power BI for enhanced reporting
- Supports multiple baselines and resource-loaded schedules for accurate EV tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setting up and interpreting EVM data
- High pricing for advanced plans limits accessibility for smaller teams
- Less specialized for pure EVM compared to dedicated tools like Deltek Cobra
Best For
Enterprise teams in the Microsoft ecosystem managing complex, resource-intensive projects requiring integrated EVM with full project scheduling.
Pricing
Subscription plans from $10/user/month (Project Plan 1) to $55/user/month (Plan 5); desktop perpetual license ~$620 one-time plus optional maintenance.
SAP S/4HANA Project Management
enterpriseIntegrates EVM capabilities within ERP for end-to-end project controlling, budgeting, and performance measurement.
Seamless real-time integration with SAP financials and supply chain modules for precise EVM baseline and actuals data
SAP S/4HANA Project Management is an enterprise-grade module within the SAP S/4HANA ERP suite, designed for comprehensive project planning, execution, and control. It supports Earned Value Management (EVM) through features like planned value tracking, earned value calculations, actual cost monitoring, and variance analysis via integrated analytics. The solution leverages real-time data from across the SAP ecosystem to provide schedule performance index (SPI), cost performance index (CPI), and forecasting capabilities for large-scale projects.
Pros
- Deep integration with SAP ERP for accurate real-time cost and schedule data
- Robust EVM reporting and analytics with customizable KPIs like CPI and SPI
- Scalable for complex, multi-project portfolios in large enterprises
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex configuration typical of SAP systems
- High implementation costs and dependency on SAP consultants
- Less intuitive for standalone EVM use without full SAP ecosystem
Best For
Large enterprises already invested in the SAP ecosystem seeking integrated EVM within broader ERP project management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically $100K+ annually for mid-sized deployments, plus implementation fees.
Planview AdaptiveWork
enterpriseWork and resource management platform supporting EVM metrics for project delivery and portfolio optimization.
AI-powered forecasting and variance analysis integrated directly with EVM metrics for proactive project controls
Planview AdaptiveWork is a cloud-based project portfolio management (PPM) platform that incorporates Earned Value Management (EVM) capabilities within its broader work management suite. It tracks key EVM metrics such as Planned Value (PV), Earned Value (EV), Actual Cost (AC), Schedule Variance (SV), Cost Variance (CV), SPI, and CPI through customizable dashboards and reports. The tool supports baseline management, progress tracking, and forecasting, making it suitable for integrating EVM into enterprise-level project controls.
Pros
- Comprehensive EVM metrics and real-time dashboards
- Strong integration with enterprise systems like ERP and financial tools
- Scalable resource and portfolio management alongside EVM
Cons
- Enterprise-focused complexity with steep learning curve
- Pricing is high for small to mid-sized teams
- EVM features are embedded in broader PPM, less specialized than dedicated tools
Best For
Large enterprises with complex project portfolios needing EVM integrated into agile and traditional PPM workflows.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically $65-$125 per user/month depending on modules and scale.
Saviom
enterpriseResource and project management software with EVM tracking to forecast project outcomes and improve profitability.
Resource heatmaps combined with EVM metrics for visualizing utilization impacts on project variances
Saviom is a resource management and project planning software that includes Earned Value Management (EVM) capabilities to track project performance through metrics like Planned Value, Earned Value, and Actual Cost. It integrates resource allocation, timesheets, and budgeting to provide variance analysis, CPI, and SPI calculations. While strong in resource optimization, its EVM features support mid-level project controls rather than enterprise-grade depth.
Pros
- Seamless integration of resource planning with EVM tracking
- Intuitive dashboards and real-time reporting
- Flexible timesheet and cost capture for accurate EV calculations
Cons
- EVM functionality lacks advanced forecasting tools found in specialized software
- Custom pricing can be opaque and costly for smaller teams
- Steep initial setup for complex multi-project environments
Best For
Mid-sized organizations needing resource management alongside basic EVM for project portfolio oversight.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $25-$40 per user/month depending on modules and scale, with annual contracts required.
Conclusion
This review of the top 10 earned value management tools showcases Deltek Cobra as the leading choice, offering comprehensive analysis, forecasting, and industry-standard compliance. EcoSys and Deltek Acumen closely trail, with EcoSys excelling in enterprise project controls and Deltek Acumen providing powerful forensic analytics for risk and variance identification. Together, these tools highlight the variety of ways EVM software can enhance project performance.
Take the next step in effective project management—explore Deltek Cobra to unlock its robust features and gain better control over schedules, costs, and compliance.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison