Critical path analysis

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

Is a project analysis and planning method that allows a project to be completed in the shortest time poisible

Question 2

Why is it needed? (2)

Answer 2

1. If a project is complex and involves significant investment and risk
2. More complex projects need to be better at identifying relationships between activities and work out the most efficient way to complete a project

Question 3

Info needed (3)

Answer 3

• List of activities
• Duration of activities
• Dependencies (what ones have to be completed first)

Question 4

4 rules of CPA?

Answer 4

1. EST is calculated first
2. EST is where 2 or more activities meet (highest figure picked)
3. LFT is calculated last
4. LFT is where 2 or more activities meet (lowest figure picked)

Question 5

Float?

Answer 5

= the duration the activity can be extend so that the project can be finished on time

Question 6

formula for float?

Answer 6

LFT - activity duration - EST = total float

Question 7

What happens if the float of an activity is 0?

Answer 7

Activities with a float 0 can’t be delayed without delaying the whole project

Question 8

Uses of CPA? (4)

Answer 8

• Estimate a minimse time
• Supports project costing and evaluation
• Plan and organise resources
• Priortise tasks