Welcome to the FOS metrics series!

Here is part 1 of our series...

May 16, 2025

Read time: 4 minutes Words: 530

Welcome to the FOS metrics series!

Introducing issue 1 of our 4-part series on the FOS framework, a smarter way to track project performance across three key layers: Foundational, Operational, and Strategic. We’re rethinking how project and operations leaders measure what matters, beyond basic dashboards and reports.

In this issue:

  • A quick self-check to see where you stand in the FOS framework

  • Global report reveals a growing shortage of skilled PM talent

  • How to communicate budget variance to stakeholders

  • Why AI ethics is becoming a must-know for PMs

Hey operations and project management leaders! 👋
You’ve told us your biggest challenge: demonstrating project value beyond basic reports.

It’s not just about tracking progress, it’s about showing real business impact. So, are you measuring what truly matters?

That’s why we created this series.

Over the next 4 issues, we’ll introduce you to the FOS framework, a practical, 3-layer approach to metrics:
👉 Foundational
👉 Operational
👉 Strategic

BUT FIRST…

✅ Start with a self-check

This 2-minute assessment will show you which areas of the FOS framework—foundational, operational, or strategic—are overrepresented, underused, or missing entirely in your current tracking.

Instructions: For each statement below, mark how well your current project management practice aligns:

  • Always (3 points)

  • Sometimes (2 points)

  • Rarely/never (1 point)

Foundational metrics (financial health & viability)

☐ I regularly track project financials such as ROI, budget adherence, and cost performance.
☐ I use financial metrics to justify project continuation or adjustments.
☐ Financial data informs my project decision-making and stakeholder reporting.

Operational metrics (efficiency & effectiveness)

☐ I monitor project schedules and delivery (milestones, cycle time, on-time completion)
☐ I track resource utilization and team efficiency.
☐ I use operational metrics to identify and resolve bottlenecks.

Strategic Metrics (innovation & long-term value)

☐ I measure project impact on long-term business goals (innovation, resilience, stakeholder satisfaction).
☐ I assess risk management effectiveness and adaptability.
☐ I use strategic metrics to align projects with organizational vision.

Scoring

21-27 → Strong use of FOS metrics across all areas
14 - 20 → Moderate use; some gaps in one or more areas
7 - 13 → Limited use of the FOS metrics.

In the next issue, we’ll dive into the first layer of the FOS framework: foundational metrics. These track your project’s financial health and answer the question: Is this project financially healthy?

What to expect:

  • Key metrics like margin, ROI, and billable hours

  • Simple formulas to calculate and apply them

  • Insights from PMs and ops leaders with real-life applications

This month’s can't-miss resources:

🎙Podcast vault - Why AI ethics matters in project management
Projectified by PMI

🗓Conference - APM Conference 2025: Projects for a Better Future @11th -12th of June 2025, Coventry, UK

Thank you for reading! See you next month

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