The Critical Path Method (CPM)

This article will introduce the Critical Path Method (CPM). CPM is a step-by-step project management method for process planning. By focusing on tasks duration CPM identifies the minimum length of time needed to complete a project and help define the most efficient way to schedule the project. CPM was developed in 1956 by the U.S. Navy to the air and defense industry. The critical path identified by the CPM is often used as a precursor to Gantt Charts. The critical path can if needed be used to identify which task to accelerate to complete the project within the available time. Furthermore CMP allows you to identify slack time (free resources) and it helps you to be secure that the project follows the time schedule. To identify the critical path through the project you can either use CPM or PERT (Program, Evaluation, Review and Technique). CPM is used then the task time estimate is quite accurate whereas PERT is used in uncertain situations thus applying three time estimates to create the expected time. CPM is therefore the most simplified method (Zelbst, 2011). CPM utilizes tasks duration as the parameter for optimization the schedule and resource planning. This is in opposition to Critical Chain Theory using resources as the measured component (Verma, 2009).

Additional reading

For more information on the Cynefin Framework, you might find the following sources useful

Videos
CPM and PERT

Cynefin framework explained by Dr. Pamela Zelbst

Simple explanation of The Cynefin Framework, by Shawn Callahan

Articles

• Article: D., Yamin R. & Harmelink. "Comparison of Linear Scheduling Model (LSM) and Critical Path Method (CPM)." J. Constr. Eng. Manage (2001): 127(5), 374-381.

Books

• Book: Woodhead, James M. Antill & Ronald W. Critical Path Methods in Construction Practice. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1990.

Links

• What is Critical Chain Project Management?: http://www.simplilearn.com/what-is-critical-chain-project-management-rar68-article

Bibliography

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