Critical Path Analysis

• Critical path analysis is a way of planning projects using network diagrams.
• Network diagrams use symbols such as nodes and arrows to represent tasks and their dependencies.
• EST (earliest start time) and LFT (latest finish time) are used to determine when activities can start and finish.
• Tasks with no prerequisites can be done simultaneously.
• Tasks with prerequisites can only start after the prerequisite tasks are completed.
• Earliest start times are determined by adding up the longest activity durations.
• Latest finish times are determined by subtracting activity durations and working backwards from the project end.
• The critical path is the sequence of activities that cannot be delayed without delaying the project.
• Float time is the amount of leeway a task has before it affects the project schedule.
• Critical path analysis helps prioritize activities and ensure project completion on schedule.

Critical path analysis is a project planning method that uses network diagrams to map out tasks and their order. The diagrams consist of nodes, which represent the start or end points of activities, and arrows that show the tasks and their durations. The earliest start time (EST) and latest finish time (LFT) are indicated on the nodes. The critical path consists of activities that cannot be delayed without affecting the project’s schedule. Float time, which is the leeway for each activity, can also be calculated. The purpose of critical path analysis is to prioritize activities and ensure project completion within the given timeframe.

Critical path analysis is a useful tool for managing projects, but it has its limitations. The accuracy of estimated timings is crucial for the effectiveness of this tool, and unexpected events can disrupt the project. Additionally, the skills and experience of those preparing the network play a significant role in the success of critical path analysis.