Project managers delude expectations from stakeholders with the resources available to finish the project. Scheduling is one of the most crucial things a project manager must navigate. A project schedule clearly explains project activities, milestones, objectives, and deliverables. There are many unpredictability variables. Also, resource availability or project scope may change. Hence, it is hard to make a schedule that will last. And in the end, it is you who’s going to be held accountable. We are here to help you with effective project scheduling. We will tell you how and when to use scheduling techniques. You can use these techniques for complex projects so that you can get ready for a reliable agenda.
Why are Project Scheduling Techniques Important?
Project scheduling techniques help manage the hurdles a project can face. Following a project scheduling technique can give transparency to a project. Also, it helps keep everyone on the same page. Below are some reasons why you require a project scheduling technique. A good project scheduling technique can provide you with accurate beginning and end dates for the project.
Consequently, it leads to our next point. Moreover, with proper project scheduling, you will avoid missing deadlines. It can help you significantly reduce the chances of missing deadlines. Making a project schedule also proves to stakeholders why a project takes the time you allot to it. Plus, it compensates for a need for more resources. Using a project scheduling technique helps show a way to deliver a product in a timely manner. By taking the time to schedule everything, you can increase the resources available.
Furthermore, the project schedule can help you plan around any unpredicted variables in a project. You can create “if, then” scenarios in your project schedule. It can help predict how different factors will impact the completion of the project. Additionally, mapping out a project schedule can help you know what resources aren’t being utilized optimally. Also, it will tell you where silos are happening in the process.
Different Project Scheduling Techniques
Now, let us explore a list of techniques customized to plan the perfect project schedule for your team:
Critical Path Method
Rudy Bush, Founder at Wiringo, said, “The project team generally uses this method in construction and industrial businesses. Specifically for those that involve the movement of products, the Critical Path Method aims to follow the path of task dependencies. It schedules the tasks based on the longest path of dependencies. Dependent tasks are those the team must complete for the project to progress toward completion. Tasks that do not possess any dependencies are known as floating tasks.” This means they do not impact the time frame of delivery.
Gantt Chart
Gantt Chart enables you to track your project progress with interactive visuals. Additionally, allows you to write down your plan of action in a spreadsheet with lines to track the progress of the project. This tracking is based on the data entry of the teams accountable for the respective tasks. Moreover, you can use the basic Gantt Chart with manual inputs into a spreadsheet. Also, you can buy the extended add-on with built-in automation and need less manual input.
Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT)
“Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) is perfect for assessing project uncertainty. It calculates the duration of the project by considering optimistic (O), most likely (M), and pessimistic (P) scenarios. Here, O is the quickest possible time, M is the realistic average, and P is for potential challenges. The formula (O + 4M + P) / 6 calculates a tentative project completion duration, accounting for possible delays and errors. PERT helps manage and plan projects by giving a structured method to predict and mitigate risks. It also ensures projects stay on track and deadlines are met efficiently.”
Resource Levelling
Would you prefer that different project teams who work on various sections of the project can do so together without one team relying on the other to finish their part to start with theirs? With the resource leveling method, you can allocate all resources to the project and avoid the idleness of any part of the team. For instance, a server would have to wait for the chef to make the meal to serve the table. However, in the meantime, the waiter could also clear up a table and take the order from another table instead of being idle.
Duration Compression
If you feel a project is taking longer than calculated and need to reduce the time taken, you can use the Duration Compressing method. This technique involves selecting between Fast tracking or Crash techniques. In this method, you can reduce the duration by running two stages of the project side by side to save time. You can also do this by allocating more resources, such as manpower, to the task that is holding up the workflow.
Fast-tracking
“The Fast-tracking method is a great way to reduce the time taken to finish a project by running more than one stage of the project side by side. It can be used to recognize tasks that can run simultaneously without overlapping. It allows you to start tasks earlier without waiting for another task to be finished.“ – Te Wu, CEO of PMO Advisory
Task List
The most straightforward technique in Project Scheduling is making a Task list. A task list is a simple word processor or spreadsheet that lists the tasks to be finished in what order, with small details related to each task. It is like the Task Manager in charge of the deadline, etc. This method is suitable for small or medium tasks because these tasks do not need too much oversight.
Conclusion
Excelling project scheduling techniques is a game-changer for Project Managers. These techniques allow you to harness the power of tools and turn complex tasks into manageable milestones. Plus, they allow you to streamline workflows and predict potential hurdles. These techniques take projects to new heights of success and efficiency. Hopefully, these techniques will help you with upcoming projects. Embrace these techniques and watch your projects thrive. Good luck on your journey!
Daniel J. Morgan is the founder of Invidiata Magazine, a premier publication showcasing luxury living, arts, and culture. With a passion for excellence, Daniel has established the magazine as a beacon of sophistication and refinement, captivating discerning audiences worldwide.
