Discrete Effort is an activity that can be planned, measured, and tracked, yielding a specific, tangible output. It is commonly used in Earned Value Management (EVM) to assess project progress.
Key Aspects of Discrete Effort
- Planned & Measurable – Has defined start and completion criteria.
- Produces a Specific Output – Results in a verifiable deliverable.
- Tracked for Performance Measurement – Can be assessed using Earned Value techniques.
- Different from Apportioned & Level of Effort – Unlike these, discrete effort results in a concrete outcome.
Comparison with Other Effort Types
| Effort Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Discrete Effort | Planned and results in a tangible deliverable. | Developing a software feature. |
| Apportioned Effort | Proportional to another effort; cannot be separated. | Quality control based on work completed. |
| Level of Effort (LOE) | Ongoing support tasks with no discrete deliverable. | Project management or maintenance work. |
Example Scenarios
Software Development
A development team working on building a login system follows discrete effort, as it has a defined scope, timeline, and measurable completion criteria.
Construction Project
Laying the foundation of a building is a discrete effort since it has a planned duration and a clearly defined output.
Marketing Campaign
Creating a promotional video is a discrete effort, as it involves specific tasks and results in a final product.
Why Discrete Effort Matters
- Improves Project Tracking – Helps measure performance accurately.
- Supports Earned Value Management (EVM) – Enables precise cost and schedule assessments.
- Ensures Clear Deliverables – Defines outputs for accountability.
- Enhances Resource Planning – Allocates work effectively.
See also: Apportioned Effort, Level of Effort (LOE), Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), Earned Value Management (EVM).