A Gantt chart is a graphical depiction of a project schedule in which project task durations are shown as horizontal bars. Gantt charts are the easiest and most intuitive way to communicate a project schedule. They are created as part of the Project Management Plan, and give stakeholders an instant picture of what the project is set to accomplish, and when. But they … [Read more...]
In project management, the network diagram is a graphical depiction of a project schedule which uses boxes to represent each task. It is used to determine the critical path, as well as the float of each task. These two terms are defined as: Critical Path: The tasks which define the completion date of the project. They cannot finish late, or be moved, or the overall … [Read more...]
In project management, all tasks have dependencies. If they didn't they wouldn't be part of the project. That is, a task that doesn't need to be completed in order to finish the project is not part of the project. It's an orphan adrift at sea. There are four types of task dependencies, and each one has its own specific reason why you would use it. … [Read more...]
Developing a functional schedule requires that tasks have dependencies. That means they have relationships to one another, they are not orphans adrift at sea. All Tasks Should have a Dependency The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) states that all tasks should have a dependency. This is because by definition, if a task is part of a project it must be related … [Read more...]
In my industry, timelines are rarely met. I would guess that 20% of all projects meet their original completion dates. And yet, it is one of the most, if not the most, important criteria specified by the various levels of government when measuring project performance. (If anyone in the highways industry reads this, please leave your comments below - I'd like to know … [Read more...]
Have you ever been involved in a project where unexpected issues outside of the control of the project team cause the project schedule to change? Never? I didn't think so, you're way too good for that. But for the rest of us mere mortals, keeping projects on track is an important consideration. Actually, I think larger projects are more likely to see schedule hiccups … [Read more...]
