Schedule Re-sequencing

Schedule Re-sequencing in Project Management: Understanding and Exam Preparation

Introduction to Schedule Re-sequencing

Schedule re-sequencing is a critical schedule compression technique in project management that involves rearranging the sequence of activities to optimize the project timeline while maintaining logical dependencies.

Why Schedule Re-sequencing is Important

Schedule re-sequencing allows project managers to:
• Find time efficiencies in the project schedule
• Mitigate delays and recover slipped schedules
• Optimize resource utilization
• Meet key milestones and deadlines
• Adapt to changing project requirements
• Improve overall schedule performance

What is Schedule Re-sequencing?

Schedule re-sequencing is the process of analyzing and modifying the order of project activities to achieve better efficiency. This technique focuses on finding opportunities to perform activities in parallel rather than sequentially when possible, or to change the order of activities to create a more optimized flow.

Unlike other compression techniques that may require additional resources (like crashing) or compromise on scope (like fast tracking), re-sequencing aims to find efficiencies in the existing schedule through smarter organization of tasks.

How Schedule Re-sequencing Works

1. Identify dependencies: Analyze all mandatory and discretionary dependencies between activities.

2. Question assumptions: Challenge any assumed sequential relationships that might actually be performed in parallel.

3. Review critical path: Focus on activities on the critical path where re-sequencing will have the greatest impact.

4. Consider alternative sequences: Look for creative ways to restructure the project network diagram.

5. Evaluate impacts: Assess any potential risks or resource constraints that might result from the proposed changes.

6. Implement and monitor: Update the schedule with the new sequence and track performance.

Examples of Schedule Re-sequencing

• Changing a Finish-to-Start relationship to a Start-to-Start relationship when appropriate
• Splitting activities into smaller components that can be performed simultaneously
• Moving non-critical path activities to times when resources are otherwise underutilized
• Adjusting the sequence to better align with material or resource availability

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Schedule Re-sequencing

1. Understand the context: Pay attention to the scenario description to identify when re-sequencing is the most appropriate technique versus other compression methods.

2. Look for dependency clues: Exam questions often include details about dependencies. Identify which are mandatory versus discretionary to spot re-sequencing opportunities.

3. Differentiate from other techniques: Know how re-sequencing differs from fast tracking (which involves parallel activities with risk) and crashing (which adds resources at additional cost).

4. Consider constraints: Re-sequencing must respect true technical dependencies, so consider whether a proposed re-sequencing violates logical constraints.

5. Focus on efficiency: The best re-sequencing solutions maintain scope and quality while finding time efficiencies through smarter work ordering.

6. Watch for network diagram questions: Practice identifying re-sequencing opportunities in network diagrams, as visual representations often appear in exams.

7. Remember the goal: Re-sequencing aims to shorten the schedule while maintaining the logical flow of work and minimizing risk.

8. Consider practical aspects: The best answer often considers resource constraints and availability alongside theoretical sequence changes.

By understanding the principles of schedule re-sequencing and recognizing when it's the appropriate technique to apply, you'll be well-prepared to answer related questions on your project management certification exam.