Critical Path Method (CPM)

Correct Answer: To show logical dependencies between activities that share the same start and end events

In Activity on Arrow (AOA) network diagrams, dummy activities serve a specific purpose: they represent logical dependencies or relationships between activities that share the same start and end events, but do not consume any time or resources. Dummy activities are zero-duration activities represented by dotted lines in the network diagram. Their primary function is to maintain proper precedence relationships when two or more activities have the same start and end events, helping to avoid confusion and ensure the network logic is clear. The other options are incorrect because: - Activities that consume time and resources are real activities, not dummy activities - Parallel or overlapping activities are shown using regular arrows, not dummy activities - Milestones are represented by events (nodes) in the network, not by dummy activities Dummy activities are purely logical constructs used to show dependencies and maintain the proper network structure, especially in complex project networks where multiple activities may share the same events.

Correct Answer: The point where cost slope becomes unfavorable for further compression

In CPM schedule compression, the optimal compression point is determined by cost-benefit analysis through cost slope evaluation. The cost slope shows the trade-off between time reduction and additional costs. The optimal point occurs when the cost slope becomes unfavorable, meaning additional compression would cost more than the benefits gained. Other options are incorrect because: - Having parallel paths of equal duration is not necessarily optimal and doesn't consider cost implications - Alignment with sponsor expectations, while important, doesn't determine the optimal compression point from a technical/cost perspective - Reaching minimum technical constraints isn't optimal if the cost-benefit ratio is unfavorable before that point The key is finding the economic balance point where further compression becomes financially disadvantageous, regardless of whether technical minimums have been reached or stakeholder preferences satisfied.

Correct Answer: Reducing activity duration by adding resources to meet project deadlines

In Critical Path Method (CPM), 'crashing' specifically refers to the technique of reducing activity duration by adding extra resources (like labor, equipment, or funding) to accelerate project completion. This is typically done when a project needs to meet specific deadlines. Here's why this is the best answer, and why others are incorrect: The correct answer accurately describes the fundamental concept of crashing - adding resources to reduce duration. The option about allocating resources across parallel paths is describing resource leveling, not crashing. The answer about analyzing failure points describes root cause analysis, which is unrelated to crashing. The final option about adjusting activity sequences describes resource smoothing or schedule optimization, not crashing. Crashing is specifically about time-cost trade-offs, where additional resources are invested to reduce activity duration. It's a critical technique in schedule compression when project deadlines must be met.