critical path Flashcards
What is the critical path?
The sequence of stages determining the minimum time needed for an operation
Critical path analysis is a project management technique.
What are the operations called that a contract is broken into?
Activities
Each activity represents a specific task within the project.
How is each activity expressed in a project diagram?
By means of an arrow
Arrows indicate the direction and relationship between activities.
What do activities consume?
Time
Activities are the tasks that require time to complete.
What are dummy activities used for?
To make numbering unique but don’t consume time
Dummy activities help clarify relationships without adding duration.
What are junction points of arrows called?
Events
Events represent milestones or specific points in time within the project.
What is a key rule regarding event numbering?
No number should be used more than once
Unique numbering avoids confusion in project management.
Are loops and dangles permitted in a project diagram?
No
Loops and dangles can complicate the project flow and should be avoided.
What is produced after the schedule is drawn up?
Durations
Durations indicate the time required to complete each activity.
What is the earliest time of an event?
The earliest time that any activity going away from that event can start
This is crucial for determining project timelines.
How do you find the earliest time an activity can finish?
Add duration of activity to the start time
This helps establish the timeline for subsequent activities.
What is the latest time any event can finish without delaying the project?
Latest of each event
Understanding the latest finish times is essential for project scheduling.
How do you find the latest start time of an activity?
Deduct duration of activity from latest finishing time
This calculation ensures that the project remains on schedule.
What is total float/slack?
The difference between earliest start time and latest start time or earliest finishing time and latest finishing time
Float/slack indicates how much a project can be delayed without affecting the overall timeline.
How should a project diagram commence and finish?
Commence with one event and finish with one event
This structure provides clarity and organization to the project flow.
What are some activities that may not be actual building operations but still consume time?
Real time activities
These activities are essential for project management despite not being construction-related.
