Critical Path Method (CPM)

For example, let's say you are managing a project to build a house. The critical path for this project might be as follows:

1. Pour concrete foundation
2. Frame the house
3. Install roof
4. Install siding
5. Install windows and doors
6. Paint the house

If the concrete foundation is delayed by two days, the entire project will be delayed by two days. However, if the siding is delayed by two days, the project will not be delayed because siding is not on the critical path.

In this case, the project manager could choose to delay the siding installation in order to recover from the delay to the concrete foundation. This would allow the project to stay on schedule.

Here are some other ways to recover from schedule overruns of specific activities that are not on the critical path:

• Reassign resources to critical activities.
• Work overtime on critical activities.
• Crash the project (i.e., shorten the project duration by reducing the time allocated to activities).

The best way to recover from schedule overruns will depend on the specific circumstances of the project. However, the CPM can be a valuable tool for identifying the best course of action.

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a project management technique that identifies the longest sequence of tasks in a project that must be completed on time in order to complete the project on time. The activities on the critical path are called critical activities, and any delay to a critical activity will delay the entire project.

The CPM can be used to recover from schedule overruns of specific activities that are not on the critical path by identifying the activities with the most slack time. Slack time is the amount of time that an activity can be delayed without delaying the project. The activities with the most slack time are the ones that have the most flexibility, and therefore, are the best candidates for delay.