Network (Critical Path) Analysis

• What is another name for network analysis?

  Critical Path Analysis (CPA)
• What is the main purpose of Critical Path Analysis?

  To identify the longest path in a project
• How does CPA help in project completion?

  It determines the shortest time for completion
• Why is CPA important for businesses?

  It aids in planning complex, high-risk projects
• What type of projects commonly use network analysis?

  Construction projects
• What are the three essential components needed for CPA?

  Activities, durations, and dependencies
• What does 'duration' refer to in CPA?

  The time each activity will take
• What are dependencies in the context of CPA?

  Activities that must be completed first
• What is the critical path in a project?

  The longest path of planned activities
• Why can't activities on the critical path be delayed?

  They would extend the project's completion time
• What is the earlier start time (EST) in a network diagram?

  The earliest time an activity can start
• How is the latest finishing time (LFT) determined?

  By working backwards from the project end
• What does float mean in project management?

  The time an activity can be delayed
• How is float calculated?

  LFT - Duration - EST
• What does it mean if an activity has zero float?

  It cannot be delayed without project delay
• What happens if any activity on the critical path is delayed?

  The overall project completion time is delayed
• What are the four golden rules of CPA diagram construction?

  1. Work from left to right for EST.
  2. Take the highest EST when activities meet.
  3. Work from right to left for LFT.
  4. Take the lowest LFT when activities meet.
• How can resources be managed in CPA?

  • Reorganize activities with float.
  • Reschedule tasks to optimize time.
  • Move resources from critical to non-critical tasks.
• What is the significance of the critical path in project management?

  • Identifies essential activities.
  • Helps minimize project duration.
  • Indicates where delays will impact the project.