Back to Finalizing the Schedule

Schedule Compression Techniques

5 minutes 5 Questions

Schedule Compression Techniques are critical methods used to shorten the project schedule duration without modifying the project scope, in order to meet time constraints, deadlines, or other schedule objectives. These techniques are often employed during the finalization of the schedule when it becomes apparent that the project's end date does not align with stakeholder expectations or contractual obligations. The two primary schedule compression techniques are Crashing and Fast Tracking. **Crashing** involves adding resources to project activities on the critical path to reduce their durations. This can include allocating additional personnel, increasing work hours through overtime, or expediting material deliveries. Crashing typically results in increased project costs due to the additional resources or premiums paid for expedited services. It is important to conduct a cost-benefit analysis to ensure that the time saved is worth the extra expenditure. **Fast Tracking** involves rearranging the schedule to perform activities in parallel that were originally planned in sequence. This technique can significantly reduce the project duration but introduces more risk. Overlapping phases or activities can lead to rework if the preceding activities are not completed as expected or if changes occur, impacting subsequent activities. Careful consideration and risk assessment are necessary when implementing fast tracking to mitigate potential issues. When finalizing the schedule, applying these compression techniques requires collaboration with the project team and stakeholders to assess the feasibility and implications of the changes. It is essential to update all related project documents, communicate the changes effectively, and ensure that everyone understands the adjusted timelines and any associated risks or costs. Using schedule compression techniques judiciously helps project managers meet critical deadlines and deliver successful project outcomes without compromising scope or quality. Proper application ensures that the project remains aligned with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations while effectively managing time constraints.

Test mode:
Start practice test
PMI-SP - Finalizing the Schedule Example Questions

Test your knowledge of Amazon Simple Storage Service (S3)

Question 1

You're managing a marketing campaign project which is currently falling behind schedule. Additional resources aren't an option, however several activities can be performed concurrently. Which technique would you apply to get the project back on track?

Correct Answer: Fast-tracking

The correct answer is 'Fast-tracking'. This technique is used when activities that were initially thought to be done in a sequence can actually be performed concurrently. It helps in accelerating the project schedule. 'Crashing' refers to the strategy where additional resources are used, which isn't an option in this scenario. 'Delaying non-critical activities' would not necessarily speed up the project but would rather shift focus to the critical ones, which may not be enough to get the project back on track. 'Scope reduction' implies removing aspects of the project, which could negatively affect the project's objectives and deliverables.

Question 2

A design project is falling behind schedule due to an unforeseeable design complexity. Assuming additional resources aren't available and the product quality cannot be compromised, which approach would you use?

Correct Answer: Re-estimating

When a design project is falling behind schedule due to unforeseen design complexity, the recommended approach is Re-estimating. This involves analyzing the project task and schedule closely, identifying the areas of complexity and re-allocating time and tasks accordingly. Unlike Fast-Tracking, which involves performing more activities in parallel to save time and can potentially increase project risk, re-estimating focuses on making the most of the current resources and might not imply risk increments. On the other hand, Crashing, which involves adding more resources to the project to speed it up, is not an option as the question states that additional resources are not available. Lastly, changing the project scope, while it can help in some cases to mitigate scheduling issues, it was explicitly ruled out in the question as compromising product quality is not an option. Moreover, scope changes should only be made with client or stakeholder consensus, which may increase the duration for agreement and potentially delay the project further.

Question 3

In an ongoing IT project, there is no room for additional resources, but the project needs to be completed ahead of schedule. What would be the best approach to compress the schedule?

Correct Answer: Reorganize the project work to allow overlapping phases

In situation where there is no room for additional resources and a constrained timeline, the best approach would be to 'Reorganize the project work to allow overlapping phases'. This practice is known as fast tracking and it involves executing project phases or activities concurrently that were originally planned to be done sequentially. It helps in compressing the project schedule without requiring additional resources. On the other hand, increasing 'resource allocation on all tasks' would not be possible here as no additional resources are available. The option to 'Crash the project' generally refers to adding resources to reduce project time which does not apply in this case where there is no room for additional resources. Lastly, 'Add more working hours' could potentially lead to overtime and burnout, which may in turn lead to decrease in productivity and increased errors.

Go Premium

PMI Scheduling Professional Preparation Package (2024)

  • 3429 Superior-grade PMI Scheduling Professional practice questions.
  • Accelerated Mastery: Deep dive into critical topics to fast-track your mastery.
  • Unlock Effortless PMI-SP preparation: 5 full exams.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed: Full refund with no questions if unsatisfied.
  • Bonus: If you upgrade now you get upgraded access to all courses
  • Risk-Free Decision: Start with a 7-day free trial - get premium features at no cost!
More Schedule Compression Techniques questions
58 questions (total)
Start 58 question test