Cost control
Cost control is the process of monitoring cost and performance. This doesn’t necessarily involve cost reduction but is a process of confirming that spending conforms to plans, policies and regulations. Cost control also monitors the performance of strategies, programs, projects and operations to ensure that spending achieves business objectives. The following are illustrative examples of cost control.
Estimates
Validating cost estimates using techniques such as reference class forecasting.
Planning:
Validating business plans, project plans and operations plans to ensure costs can be mapped to measurable objectives.
Budgets
The process of validating, approving and controlling budgets.
Procurement
Due diligence in purchasing such as a process of competitive bids for contracts.
Financial Controls
Financial controls such as accurate and timely accounting according to applicable principles, standards and regulations.
Cost Reporting
Monitoring costs and cost variances.
Performance Reporting
Reporting the performance of programs, projects and operational spending against plans.