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Chapter 7 Critical Path Method (CPM)

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a project scheduling tool that focuses on time control by identifying the longest sequence of activities, known as the critical path, which cannot be delayed. It helps managers complete projects on time by distinguishing between critical and non-critical activities, improving planning and control. Additionally, CPM involves steps such as identifying activities, defining relationships, and estimating durations, while also utilizing Linear Programming (LP) models to optimize project duration and resource usage.

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4 views14 pages

Chapter 7 Critical Path Method (CPM)

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a project scheduling tool that focuses on time control by identifying the longest sequence of activities, known as the critical path, which cannot be delayed. It helps managers complete projects on time by distinguishing between critical and non-critical activities, improving planning and control. Additionally, CPM involves steps such as identifying activities, defining relationships, and estimating durations, while also utilizing Linear Programming (LP) models to optimize project duration and resource usage.

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noor04fatimah
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© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Critical Path

Method (CPM)
Dr Iram Bashir
Critical Path Method
(CPM)
• Project Scheduling Tool
• Focus on Time Control
• CPM is a project scheduling technique
• It identifies the longest sequence of activities in a
project
• This sequence is called the critical path
• CPM tells us which activities cannot be delayed.
Why CPM Is Important
• Helps complete projects on time
• Identifies critical and non-critical activities
• Improves planning and control
• Managers focus more on critical activities to avoid
delays.
Application of CPM in
Project Scheduling
• CPM is used to:
• List project activities
• Decide activity sequence
• Estimate project duration
• CPM converts project plans into a clear schedule.
Steps in Developing a Project
Schedule Using CPM
• Identify activities
• Define precedence relationships
• Draw network diagram
• Estimate activity durations
• Identify critical path
• These steps help managers move from planning to
execution.
Determining Slacks of
Activities
• Slack is the extra time available for an activity
• It shows scheduling flexibility
• Activities with slack can be delayed without
affecting the project end date.
Types of Slack in CPM
• Total Slack: Maximum delay allowed
• Free Slack: Delay without affecting next activity
• Slack helps managers adjust resources efficiently.
Critical vs. Non-Critical Activities
• Critical activities → Zero slack
• Non-critical activities → Positive slack
• Critical activities need continuous monitoring
Linear Programming (LP)
Models for CPM
• LP is a mathematical technique
• Used to optimize:
• Project duration
• Resource usage
• Cost
LP helps find the best possible schedule under
constraints.
Role of LP in CPM
• Minimizes project completion time
• Balances time and resources
• Useful for large and complex projects
Class Individual Exercise
Critical Path, Time, and
Slack
Exercise
Exercise

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