Earned Standards Complete Method
EVM Terms
Reviewed by forProject Technology - updated Sep 2026
Quick definition: The Earned Standards Complete Method is an earned value technique that credits progress based on accomplishment of pre-established labor-hour standards for each unit of work completed.
The "earned standard" for a unit of work — often expressed in labor hours — is typically derived from historical data, time-and-motion studies, or learning curves. As each unit is completed, its associated standard hours are earned as value, regardless of how many hours were actually spent.
Why it matters
This method suits repetitive production work where reliable historical standards exist, since it ties earned value to objective output rather than subjective progress estimates. It's less useful for one-off or highly variable tasks where no dependable standard exists.
Also known as
Earned Standards Method
Used in
BCWP calculation for repetitive or production-type work measured against earned standards
See also
FAQ
What kind of work is the Earned Standards Complete Method best suited for?
Repetitive production work with reliable historical data, such as manufacturing units on an assembly line, where a dependable labor-hour standard can be established.
Where do the "earned standards" used in this method come from?
They're typically based on historical data, time-and-motion studies, or learning curves for the type of work being performed.
Definition maintained by forProject Technology.
© 2026 forProject Technology, Inc.
© 2026 forProject Technology, Inc.
