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To Complete Performance Index

To Complete Performance Index (TCPI)

EVM Terms Reviewed by forProject Technology - updated Sep 2026
Quick definition: The To Complete Performance Index (TCPI) measures the cost efficiency that must be achieved on the remaining work in order to meet a specific cost target.

TCPI is calculated as the work remaining divided by the budget remaining, commonly expressed as (BAC - BCWP) / (BAC - ACWP). An index greater than 1.0 means the remaining work must be completed more efficiently than originally planned in order to hit that cost target.

Why it matters

TCPI is a forward-looking reality check -- it shows whether the efficiency needed to finish on budget is actually achievable given how the project has performed so far. A TCPI that is well above 1.0, especially one notably higher than the project's current Cost Performance Index, is a warning sign that the current budget or estimate may not be realistic.

Also known as
N/A
Used in
Estimate at Completion; Budget at Completion

FAQ

What does a TCPI above 1.0 mean?
It means the remaining work must be performed more efficiently than planned so far in order to hit the cost target being measured against.
Is TCPI always calculated against the BAC?
Not necessarily -- TCPI can be calculated against either the Budget at Completion (BAC) or a revised Estimate at Completion (EAC), depending on which cost target is being tested.
Definition maintained by forProject Technology.
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