ISO Publishes RevisedInternational Standard on Project, programme and portfolio management — Earned value management developed by TC 258/WG 12.
ISO/TC 258 is pleased to announce the publication of ISO 21508:2026, Project, programme and portfolio management — Earned value management, the second edition of this important guidance standard, published 06 February 2026.
ISO 21508 provides guidance on the practice of earned value management (EVM) within project, programme, and portfolio contexts. It is applicable to organizations of all types—public or private, large or small—and to initiatives of any level of complexity, size, or duration.
EVM is a performance measurement technique that integrates cost, schedule, and scope information to support effective planning, monitoring, and control. The updated standard helps organizations better align EVM practices with other aspects of project, programme, and portfolio management and reinforces its role as a decision-support tool.
ISO 21508:2026 includes:
- Clear descriptions of the purpose and benefits of earned value management
- Guidance on the integration of EVM with broader PPPM practices
- An overview of relevant processes and components of an EVM system
- Practical advice on the use of earned value management systems to improve transparency and performance evaluation.
The standard replaces the first edition, ISO 21508:2018, and reflects evolving industry needs by providing updated guidance that supports effective performance measurement and project oversight across diverse environments.
For more information and to explore related ISO/TC 258 standards, visit the ISO page for ISO 21508:2026.
ISO/TC 258 extends its sincere appreciation to the contributors, Working Group 12 experts and Convenor Kym Henderson for their outstanding collaboration, technical expertise, and commitment throughout the development of this standard.
For more information, visit the ISO standard page: https://www.iso.org/standard/87899.html