Scheduling helps a project manager to:
A good schedule improves predictability and stakeholder confidence.
A network diagram shows activities and their dependencies in a logical sequence.
It helps to:
CPM (Critical Path Method) is a scheduling technique used when activity durations are reasonably known/deterministic.
Main outputs:
Forward pass calculates:
Rule:
EF = ES + durationBackward pass calculates:
Rule:
LS = LF − durationCritical path is the longest-duration path through the network.
Access the complete note and unlock all topic-wise content
It's free and takes just 5 seconds
From this topic
In forward pass, we calculate ES and EF using EF = ES + duration. In backward pass, we calculate LF and LS using LS = LF − duration. These help find float and critical path.
Critical path is the longest path in the network. Activities on it have zero float. Importance: it gives minimum project duration and any delay in critical activities delays the whole project.
Download this note as PDF at no cost
If any AD appears on download click please wait for 30sec till it gets completed and then close it, you will be redirected to pdf/ppt notes page.
Scheduling helps a project manager to:
A good schedule improves predictability and stakeholder confidence.
A network diagram shows activities and their dependencies in a logical sequence.
It helps to:
CPM (Critical Path Method) is a scheduling technique used when activity durations are reasonably known/deterministic.
Main outputs:
Forward pass calculates:
Rule:
EF = ES + durationBackward pass calculates:
Rule:
LS = LF − durationCritical path is the longest-duration path through the network.
Critical activities:
Thus, critical path decides minimum project duration.
Float (slack) is the amount of time an activity can be delayed without delaying project completion.
Total float formula:
TF = LS − ES = LF − EFIf float is 0, the activity is critical.
PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) is used when activity durations are uncertain.
PERT uses probability-based time estimates, common in R&D/new projects.
PERT uses three estimates:
Expected time:
This weighted average gives more weight to most likely time.
A Gantt chart is a bar chart showing activities against time.
Benefits:
Limitations:
Schedule control includes:
List activities + durations → draw network → forward pass (ES/EF)
→ backward pass (LS/LF) → float calculation → identify critical path
Get instant access to notes, practice questions, and more benefits with our mobile app.
CPM (Critical Path Method) is a scheduling technique used when activity durations are known.
Steps:
Forward pass → Backward pass → Float → Critical path
Thus CPM identifies minimum project duration and activities that must not be delayed.