The Critical Path Method (CPM) and PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) are two tools for planning and controlling projects.
PERT is a method for establishing dependencies between tasks and estimating project duration. It is a statistical tool that allows you to visualize the overall project schedule, not just the critical path. Thus, it shows the relationship between tasks but also the entire project duration.
This is why PERT is used to calculate the time required to complete project activities, especially when task durations are variable and uncertain. It thus allows for flexibility in project planning and focuses on time estimation and uncertainty.
For example, a project with seven key activities and a total rcs data singapore duration of 14 days could be represented by a PERT chart that looks like this:
Example of a PERT chart used to create a critical path
The critical path is used to plan and manage project tasks. It focuses on the longest sequence of tasks and takes into account dependencies and downtime. Therefore, it is suitable for projects with predictable task durations.
Critical Path and Gantt Chart
Both the critical path and the Gantt chart are project management visualization tools, but they have different purposes.
The Gantt chart provides a visual overview of tasks, durations, and dependencies in a project timeline. It helps track progress, allocate resources, and communicate project deadlines.
Although a Gantt chart can highlight the critical path, its main purpose is to visualize the project schedule.