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Critical Path Method Scheduling

The document discusses the critical path method (CPM) for project scheduling. CPM identifies the longest sequence of dependent tasks that determine a project's minimum duration. The document outlines the steps to implement CPM, including listing tasks, determining dependencies, estimating durations, creating a network diagram, identifying the critical path, and regularly updating the schedule. Benefits of CPM include improved planning, effective resource management, enhanced risk management, and better communication.

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Lucky Edjenekpo
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16 views

Critical Path Method Scheduling

The document discusses the critical path method (CPM) for project scheduling. CPM identifies the longest sequence of dependent tasks that determine a project's minimum duration. The document outlines the steps to implement CPM, including listing tasks, determining dependencies, estimating durations, creating a network diagram, identifying the critical path, and regularly updating the schedule. Benefits of CPM include improved planning, effective resource management, enhanced risk management, and better communication.

Uploaded by

Lucky Edjenekpo
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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CRITICAL PATH METHOD SCHEDULING

Critical Path Method Scheduling


The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a project management technique used to identify the
sequence of crucial tasks that determine the minimum project duration. Here’s a detailed
overview of CPM scheduling:
What is the Critical Path Method (CPM)?
The Critical Path Method (CPM) is an algorithm for scheduling a set of project activities. It
identifies the longest stretch of dependent activities and measures the time required to
complete them from start to finish1. This sequence of activities is known as the “critical
path,” and any delay in these tasks will delay the entire project.
Steps to Implement CPM Scheduling
1. List All Activities:
o Identify all tasks required to complete the project.

o Break down the project into smaller, manageable activities2.

2. Determine Dependencies:
o Identify the dependencies between tasks (i.e., which tasks must be completed
before others can start).
o Use tools like dependency diagrams or network diagrams to visualize these
relationships2.
3. Estimate Duration:
o Estimate the time required to complete each task.

o Use historical data, expert judgment, or other estimation techniques3.

4. Create the Network Diagram:


o Draw a network diagram that shows the sequence of tasks and their
dependencies.
o Use nodes to represent tasks and arrows to show dependencies2.

5. Identify the Critical Path:


o Calculate the earliest and latest start and finish times for each task.

o Identify the longest path through the network diagram, which is the critical
path1.
6. Update and Monitor:
o Regularly update the CPM schedule to reflect actual progress.

o Monitor the critical path to ensure that any delays are addressed promptly3.

Benefits of CPM Scheduling

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Critical Path Method Scheduling
1. Improved Planning:
o Helps in breaking down complex projects into manageable tasks.

o Provides a clear roadmap for project execution2.

2. Effective Resource Management:


o Allows for better allocation of resources by identifying critical tasks that
require priority3.
3. Enhanced Risk Management:
o Identifies potential bottlenecks and allows for proactive risk mitigation3.

4. Better Communication:
o Provides a visual representation of the project schedule, making it easier to
communicate with stakeholders2.
Example
Imagine you’re managing a software development project:
1. List Activities: Define tasks like requirements gathering, design, coding, testing, and
deployment.
2. Determine Dependencies: Identify that coding cannot start until design is complete,
and testing cannot start until coding is finished.
3. Estimate Duration: Estimate that design will take 2 weeks, coding 4 weeks, and
testing 2 weeks.
4. Create Network Diagram: Draw a diagram showing the sequence and dependencies
of these tasks.
5. Identify Critical Path: Determine that the critical path is design → coding → testing,
with a total duration of 8 weeks.
6. Update and Monitor: Regularly update the schedule to reflect progress and address
any delays in critical tasks.
By following these steps, you can effectively implement CPM scheduling to manage your
project’s timeline and resources231.

References:
1. Critical Path Method: How to Use CPM for Project Management,
https://asana.com/resources/critical-path-method (Online) (Accessed 2 Aug 2024)
2. Critical Path Method: The Ultimate Guide,

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Critical Path Method Scheduling
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/critical-path-method/ (Online) (Accessed 2 Aug
2024)

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