Activity sequencing is a fundamental process in project management that involves identifying and documenting the logical relationships and dependencies between project activities. This process is essential for creating a realistic project schedule and understanding how tasks interconnect throughout…Activity sequencing is a fundamental process in project management that involves identifying and documenting the logical relationships and dependencies between project activities. This process is essential for creating a realistic project schedule and understanding how tasks interconnect throughout the project lifecycle.
In CompTIA Project+ methodology, activity sequencing falls under the planning phase and builds upon the work breakdown structure (WBS) and activity list. The primary output of this process is the project schedule network diagram, which visually represents the sequence of activities and their interdependencies.
There are four main types of dependencies used in activity sequencing:
1. Finish-to-Start (FS): The most common dependency where one activity must complete before the next can begin. For example, foundation work must finish before wall construction starts.
2. Start-to-Start (SS): Two activities begin at the same time. Both tasks can run concurrently from their initiation points.
3. Finish-to-Finish (FF): Two activities must end at the same time, though they may have started at different points.
4. Start-to-Finish (SF): The least common type where one activity cannot finish until another has started.
Project managers also consider three categories of dependencies: mandatory (hard logic based on physical limitations), discretionary (soft logic based on best practices), and external (involving factors outside the project team's control).
Tools used for activity sequencing include the Precedence Diagramming Method (PDM), which uses nodes to represent activities and arrows to show relationships. Leads and lags are also applied to adjust timing between dependent activities - leads allow acceleration while lags introduce delays.
Effective activity sequencing enables project managers to identify the critical path, optimize resource allocation, anticipate potential bottlenecks, and develop contingency plans. This process is crucial for accurate schedule development and successful project execution.
Activity Sequencing in Project Management
What is Activity Sequencing?
Activity sequencing is the process of identifying and documenting the logical relationships among project activities. It determines the order in which activities must be performed and establishes dependencies between tasks. This process is a critical component of project schedule management and falls under the planning phase of a project.
Why is Activity Sequencing Important?
Activity sequencing is essential for several reasons:
• Creates a realistic schedule: By understanding which activities depend on others, project managers can create achievable timelines.
• Identifies the critical path: Proper sequencing helps determine which activities have the least flexibility, allowing managers to focus resources appropriately.
• Improves resource allocation: Knowing the sequence allows for better planning of when resources will be needed.
• Facilitates communication: Visual representations of activity sequences help stakeholders understand project flow.
How Activity Sequencing Works
The activity sequencing process involves several key components:
1. Dependency Types: • Mandatory dependencies (hard logic): Inherent in the nature of work; cannot be changed • Discretionary dependencies (soft logic): Based on best practices or preferences; can be modified • External dependencies: Involve relationships between project and non-project activities • Internal dependencies: Relationships between project activities within the team's control
2. Logical Relationships: • Finish-to-Start (FS): Activity B cannot start until Activity A finishes (most common) • Start-to-Start (SS): Activity B cannot start until Activity A starts • Finish-to-Finish (FF): Activity B cannot finish until Activity A finishes • Start-to-Finish (SF): Activity B cannot finish until Activity A starts (rarely used)
3. Tools and Techniques: • Precedence Diagramming Method (PDM): Uses boxes (nodes) to represent activities and arrows to show dependencies • Network diagrams: Visual representations showing activity relationships • Leads and lags: Leads accelerate successor activities; lags delay them
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Activity Sequencing
Key concepts to memorize: • Finish-to-Start is the most commonly used relationship type • Mandatory dependencies are also called hard logic • Discretionary dependencies offer flexibility for schedule optimization • The Precedence Diagramming Method is the standard technique used in modern project management
Common exam scenarios: • Questions asking which dependency type to use in specific situations • Identifying the correct logical relationship between two activities • Distinguishing between leads (negative time) and lags (positive time) • Recognizing when to use discretionary versus mandatory dependencies
Test-taking strategies: • When asked about dependencies, consider whether the relationship is inherent to the work (mandatory) or based on preference (discretionary) • For logical relationship questions, ask yourself: What must happen first, and what triggers the next activity? • Remember that external dependencies involve factors outside the project team's control • Network diagram questions often test your ability to identify predecessors and successors
Watch for these keywords: • 'Must complete before' typically indicates Finish-to-Start • 'Best practice' or 'preferred method' suggests discretionary dependency • 'Required by contract' or 'regulatory requirement' points to external dependency • 'Inherent in the work' signals mandatory dependency
Understanding activity sequencing thoroughly will help you tackle schedule-related questions and demonstrate competency in project planning fundamentals.