Critical Paths

Question 1

What is critical path analysis

Answer 1

A project analysis and planning method that allows a project to be completed in the shortest possible time
It starts by having a list of tasks and annotated with prerequisites
This is essentially just what needs to be done before the next task

Question 2

What is a network diagram

Answer 2

It is a way of laying out tasks in the order they need to be completed and stating the times that each task should start and finish

Question 3

What does a node contain

Answer 3

A node number
Earliest start time
Latest finish time

Question 4

What is float time

Answer 4

Any period of time that a task can be delayed without any delays to the final project completion

Question 5

What path is picked as the critical path

Answer 5

The one where the tasks cannot have any delays to them unless there will be a delay to the overall project finish time

Question 6

What are the advantages of a critical path

Answer 6

Helps a business identify the fastest time to complete a project which should save the business time and money
If the project is related to a new product being released the business may get the product to market faster and benefit from first mover advantage
Businesses can plan their resources by ordering materials just when they need them or planning staff allocation

Question 7

What are the drawbacks of critical path

Answer 7

Timings of activities are all based on estimates so the CPA network may not be fully accurate and delays can still occur
Projects can still be held up if suppliers miss their deadlines so it is still not fully in managers control
Managers may not have experience to plan their network well
The focus of cpa is about completing projects in time rather than the quality of the project