3.3.4 Critical path analysis

Question 1

define cpa

Answer 1

method of planning + controlling large projects - shows order in which tasks should be carried out

Question 2

when is cpa particularly important

Answer 2

when a business used lean production (links to JIT) as helps identify right amount of stock is coming in and out to reduce waste

Question 3

what is float time

Answer 3

how much a task can be delayed without impacting other tasks

Question 4

what are 3 positives of cpa

Answer 4

-plan for activities that can be done simultaneously
-allows managers to delay activities that have float time + projects will still finish as planned
-helps determine ‘launch’ date or completion date more accurately

Question 5

what are 3 negatives of cpa

Answer 5

-durations only estimates - if inaccurate create delays down the ‘path’
-shows quickest way - is this best way?
-only provides starting point - execution + management of project that counts
-‘JIT’ being used - reliability of suppliers key - delays/ sourcing issues?