Critical Path Method

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a project management technique used to schedule project activities. It identifies the longest stretch of dependent tasks in a project from start to finish, determining the minimum time needed to complete the project. CPM involves several key elements: 1. Activity identification: Breaking down the project into specific tasks. 2. Dependency determination: Establishing relationships between tasks (which must precede others). 3. Time estimation: Assigning realistic durations to each activity. 4. Network diagramming: Creating a visual representation showing the sequence of activities. 5. Path calculation: Determining the critical path by finding the longest duration path through the network. The critical path consists of activities with zero float (slack time), meaning any delay in these activities will delay the entire project. Activities not on the critical path have float, allowing some scheduling flexibility. CPM calculations include: - Early Start (ES): Earliest an activity can begin - Early Finish (EF): Earliest an activity can end - Late Start (LS): Latest an activity can begin - Late Finish (LF): Latest an activity can end - Float: LS - ES or LF - EF CPM benefits project managers by: - Identifying which tasks require the closest attention - Providing a visual project timeline - Helping optimize resource allocation - Enabling better schedule compression when needed - Supporting risk management by focusing on critical activities Project managers can use CPM for schedule compression through techniques like fast-tracking (performing activities in parallel) or crashing (adding resources to critical activities). In CAPM preparation, understanding CPM is essential as it forms the backbone of project scheduling and time management knowledge.

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a project management technique used to schedule project activities. It identifies the longest stretch of dependent tasks in a project from start to finish, determini…

Concepts covered: Project Network Diagrams, Forward Pass, Float or Slack, Late Start and Late Finish Dates, Early Start and Early Finish Dates, Lead and Lag Time, Critical Path, Project Duration, Activity Sequencing, Backward Pass