During the implementation phase of a systems project, the executive vice president is primarily focused on which management function?

Introduction / Context:
Management functions are often summarized as planning, organizing, directing, and controlling. While project managers and line leads direct day-to-day tasks during implementation, senior executives focus on oversight, governance, risk, and alignment to business outcomes. This item checks which function is dominant for an executive vice president at this stage.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Implementation is underway and scope has already been planned and organized.
• Tactical direction of teams is handled by project and engineering managers.
• Executives need visibility into KPIs, risks, and benefits realization.

Concept / Approach:
The controlling function emphasizes measuring actuals against plan, auditing compliance, removing roadblocks, and authorizing corrective actions. Executives review dashboards, stage gates, and risk registers to ensure the program stays within cost, schedule, and quality thresholds.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify who performs day-to-day direction: project leads, not the EVP. 2) Determine executive priorities in implementation: outcomes, risk, and governance. 3) Map these priorities to the controlling function. 4) Conclude that controlling is the primary executive emphasis.

Verification / Alternative check:
Program governance frameworks and PMO charters position senior executives as sponsors who approve changes, review variances, and enforce corrective actions.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: Planning is front loaded earlier in the life cycle.
Option B: Organizing is largely completed prior to implementation.
Option C: Directing is operational leadership handled by managers closer to the work.
Option E: Not applicable because controlling fits well.

Common Pitfalls:
Expecting senior executives to micromanage tasks. Their value is in governance and escalation paths, not daily supervision.

Final Answer:
Controlling (monitoring progress, variances, and corrective actions)