Float, also known as slack, measures the amount of time that you can delay a task without causing a delay to other tasks or the project. Zero float tasks are on the critical path, while non-zero floats are off the critical path. This concept provides flexibility within the project schedule, allowin…Float, also known as slack, measures the amount of time that you can delay a task without causing a delay to other tasks or the project. Zero float tasks are on the critical path, while non-zero floats are off the critical path. This concept provides flexibility within the project schedule, allowing project managers to prioritize and reallocate resources if necessary and serves as a buffer against possible project delays.
Guide on Float or Slack in Critical Path Method
The term Float or Slack is commonly used in Project Management and especially in the Critical Path Method.
What is Float or Slack? In the context of the Critical Path Method, float or slack is the amount of time that you can delay a task without a delay in the project. More slack time means the project schedule is more flexible.
Why is it important? It's important to understand float or slack because it gives you flexibility in managing resources and risks. It allows project managers to make informed decisions on where flexibilities exist and where priorities lie. If a task has a float or slack of zero, it means it is on the critical path and any delay will affect the project's timeline.
How does it work? The total float or slack time for a task is calculated by subtracting the early start date from the late start date (or the early finish date from the late finish date).
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Float or Slack
1. Understand the concept of float or slack and its role in project scheduling.
2. Learn how to calculate float or slack time. Remember that it can be computed by subtracting early start date from late start date or early finish date from late finish date.
3. Always read the questions carefully. Look out for words indicating that a task is critical (i.e., has a zero slack) or non-critical.
4. Understand that tasks with more float or slack allow for more flexibility, while tasks with less or zero float or slack are more risk-prone and need to be managed carefully.
An equipment failure has caused a delay in your project, resulting in a schedule variance of -4 days. However, your float is seven days. What's the possible status of your project?
Question 2
You have a free float of 10 days in a software development project, but the client requests a feature that will take 9 days to complete. If you adjust the schedule for this feature, how does it affect your project's free float?
Question 3
You're managing a software project with an available float of 10 days. However, coding a new feature for the client is taking longer than expected and will use up 12 days of float. What will be the impact on the project's deadline?
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