PMGT3623 Scheduling - Week 3 Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the main focus of Week 03 in the PMGT3623 course?

  • Implementation of Project Network Diagram using Microsoft Project
  • Define and Sequence Project Tasks
  • Project Network Diagram (Discrete Approach) (correct)
  • Complex Task Allocation Approach

Which method is mentioned as a part of the Project Network Diagram covered in Week 03?

  • Precedence Diagramming Method (correct)
  • Gantt Chart Method
  • Critical Path Method
  • Critical Chain Method

What percent weight does the final exam carry in the PMGT3623 assessments?

  • 50%
  • 40% (correct)
  • 20%
  • 30%

What is one limitation of the discrete approach to Project Network Diagrams?

<p>It can overlook variability in task durations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which week includes a Knowledge Test in the PMGT3623 course schedule?

<p>Week 7 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The project duration and critical path are topics covered in which week?

<p>Week 3 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is required for the Group Assignment Report Submission in PMGT3623?

<p>Submission by 11:59 pm on a Friday of Week 13 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first task in the Building Gate and Fence Project?

<p>Dig holes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the total duration of the critical path A → C → F → G?

<p>12 months (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which activity has a duration of 1 month?

<p>Activity D (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following activities does not depend on another activity?

<p>Activity A (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the duration of Activity E?

<p>4 months (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which activity leads directly to Activity F?

<p>Activity C (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which activities are dependent on Activity D?

<p>Activities G and H (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between Activities E and J?

<p>They are independent (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can happen to the critical path if the performance of one of its tasks improves?

<p>It could become shorter. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines a near-critical path?

<p>It's a path that can become critical with slight changes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which task has the longest duration in the critical path example provided?

<p>Task B (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What issue arises from using a discrete approach for task duration allocation in complex projects?

<p>It can result in wrong or biased estimations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the provided content, which of the following is a critical path?

<p>A→C→F→G (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the task notation 'A(4)' signify?

<p>Task A has a duration of 4 days. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a probabilistic outcome imply about task completion times?

<p>There is a level of uncertainty in the completion times (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by the term 'deterministic approach' in task duration allocation?

<p>It assumes a fixed duration for tasks (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a critical path?

<p>Delays in this path do not affect the project completion time. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the task layout presented, which near-critical path can also be considered valid?

<p>A→D→I (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How confident can we be about completing a task within a specific timeframe, according to the content?

<p>It is highly probable but not guaranteed (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical path?

<p>The longest path through a project that dictates project duration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can affect the duration of a critical path task?

<p>Improvement in task performance. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During project execution, how can a near-critical path change?

<p>It may become a critical path (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might a discrete approach be acceptable for simple projects?

<p>Simple projects have less variability (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Total Slack represent?

<p>The difference between late and early finish times. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which path consists of tasks that have a slack time of 0?

<p>Critical path (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is slack time crucial for project managers?

<p>It identifies the potential risks in scheduling. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does slack time contribute to project flexibility?

<p>By allowing adjustments without delaying the project. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a near-critical path?

<p>It can become critical if durations change. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What effect does a task with little or no slack time have on a project?

<p>It can increase the project's schedule risk. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which equation correctly represents Total Slack?

<p>Total Slack = Late Start - Early Start (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does slack time play in resource allocation?

<p>It helps prioritize critical tasks over non-critical tasks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do tasks on the critical path imply about project delays?

<p>Delays in these tasks will cause delays in the entire project. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If Float (H) in a project is calculated as 12 - 9, what is the value?

<p>3 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of performing a forward pass in project management?

<p>To set the earliest start and finish dates for tasks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following formulas is used to calculate the Early Finish (EF) date?

<p>ES + duration = EF (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the backward pass method primarily help to determine?

<p>The latest start and finish dates for tasks. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When multiple predecessors exist for a successor task, what date should the Early Start (ES) for the successor be based on?

<p>The latest EF date of all predecessors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the Late Start (LS) of a predecessor when it has multiple successors?

<p>Use the earliest LS date of the successors. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What determines the critical path in a project?

<p>The longest path through the project that defines the shortest time to complete it. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is slack time in a project defined?

<p>Time that can be delayed without affecting the project schedule. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In project management, what is a common requirement for identifying the critical path?

<p>Performing both forward and backward passes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What indicates that a project has no defined critical path?

<p>Some tasks do not connect throughout the network. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following formulas is used to calculate the Late Finish (LF)?

<p>LF - duration = LS (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'float time' refer to?

<p>Time a task can slip without affecting the project timeline. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the critical path crucial for project managers?

<p>It indicates the longest duration and helps prioritize tasks. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is established first when performing project scheduling?

<p>Identifying task dependencies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a project network diagram, which aspect does not affect the critical path?

<p>Number of resources allocated to tasks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Project Network Diagram

A visual representation of project tasks and their dependencies, used to plan and track project progress.

Precedence Diagramming Method

A method for creating a project network diagram where tasks are connected based on their dependencies.

Project Duration

The total time required to complete all the tasks in the project.

Critical Path

The longest sequence of dependent tasks in a project network diagram; delays on this path delay the entire project.

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Near-Critical Path

Paths in a project network diagram that are close to the critical path, but not the longest.

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Discrete Approach

A project network diagram approach that focuses on the sequence of specific tasks without considering probabilistic factors.

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Task Dependencies

The relationship between project tasks where the completion of one task is required before another can start.

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Building Gate and Fence Project

A hypothetical project used as an example to describe project network diagram.

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Forward Pass

A calculation that determines the earliest start and finish times for each task in a project.

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Backward Pass

A calculation that determines the latest start and finish times for each task in a project.

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Early Start (ES)

The earliest possible time to start a task, considering its dependencies.

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Early Finish (EF)

The earliest possible time to finish a task, considering its dependencies.

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Late Start (LS)

The latest possible time to start a task without delaying the project completion date.

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Late Finish (LF)

The latest possible time to finish a task without delaying the project completion date.

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Slack Time

The amount of time a task can be delayed without delaying the entire project.

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Network Diagram

A visual representation of the tasks and their dependencies in a project.

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Project Management

Application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to project activities to meet project requirements.

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Task Duration

The estimated time required to complete a task.

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Dependencies

The relationship between tasks, where one task must be completed before another can start.

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Successors

Tasks that depend on a given task being finished.

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Predecessors

Tasks that must be completed before a given task can start.

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Lag

A time interval between the completion of one task and the start of the next task.

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Lead

Time saved when the start of one task overlaps with the end of the predecessor task.

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What is Slack?

Slack, or float time, is the amount of time a task can be delayed without affecting the project's overall finish date.

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Slack on Critical Path

Tasks on the critical path have NO slack. Any delay will push back the project completion.

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Slack for Resource Allocation

Knowing slack helps project managers allocate resources effectively, prioritizing critical tasks.

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Slack and Risk

Tasks with little or no slack are riskier, as even small delays can impact the project.

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Slack and Project Flexibility

Slack provides flexibility in scheduling, allowing for adjustments without impacting the project timeline.

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Probabilistic Outcome

This refers to the possibility that a task's duration could be longer than initially estimated, potentially making a near-critical path the new critical path.

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Impact of Delay on Near-Critical Path

If tasks on a near-critical path are delayed and exceed the duration of the critical path, they become the new critical path.

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Managing Near-Critical Paths

Project managers should monitor near-critical paths for potential issues and adjust resources if needed to prevent them from becoming the critical path.

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Critical Path Shortening

The process of reducing the duration of the critical path by optimizing the tasks within it. This can be achieved by reducing task durations, changing the project scope, or adjusting task dependencies.

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Near-Critical Path Promotion

When a near-critical path becomes the critical path due to the critical path shortening or optimization. This can happen if the tasks on the near-critical path are not optimized adequately.

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Project Network Diagram: Task Dependencies

The relationship between tasks in a project network diagram where the completion of one task is required before another can start. These dependencies influence the order of tasks and the overall project duration.

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Why are Near-Critical Paths important?

Near-critical paths provide a buffer in case the critical path is delayed. They also highlight potential bottlenecks in the project plan and help identify areas for optimization.

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What is a critical path?

The sequence of tasks in a project that dictates the project's overall duration. It is the longest path through a project network diagram, and any delays on the critical path will directly delay the project completion.

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Impact of task duration reduction

Reducing the duration of a task can have a significant impact on the project duration, especially when it's a task on the critical path. This can lead to a shortened critical path, potentially promoting a near-critical path to become the critical path.

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How to Identify Near-Critical Paths

Analyze the project network diagram to find paths that are close in duration to the critical path. These paths are considered near-critical and require attention for potential optimization or risk mitigation.

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Why Discrete Approach is Limited

A discrete approach to project scheduling can lead to inaccurate estimations for complex projects as it doesn't account for the inherent uncertainty in task durations.

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Comparing Discrete & Probabilistic

A discrete approach assumes fixed task durations, while a probabilistic approach acknowledges the possibility of variations and uncertainties in task timelines.

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Why Probabilistic Outcome is Important

Recognizing the probabilistic nature of project timelines helps project managers make more realistic estimates and plan effectively for potential delays.

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Study Notes

PMGT3623 Scheduling - Week 3

  • Topic: Project Network Diagram (Discrete Approach)

Acknowledgement of Country

  • Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, and culture.
  • Acknowledges connection to the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation.

PMGT3623 Overview - Week 3

  • Week 3 Topic: Project Network Diagram (Discrete Approach)

PMGT3623 Assessments

  • Weekly Participation: 10%, W2-W6; W9-W10 (Best 6 out of 7)
  • Knowledge Test: 20%, W7
  • Group Assignment Presentation (Part A): 10%, W12 and W13
  • Group Assignment Report Submission (Part B): 20%, Friday of W13 (By 11:59 pm)
  • Final Exam: 40%, Exam Week

Topics Covered - Week 3: Project Network Diagram (Discrete Approach)

  • What is a Project Network Diagram?
  • Different approaches to the Project Network Diagram
    • Precedence Diagramming Method
    • Other Approaches
  • Project Duration, Critical Path and Near-Critical Path
  • Limitation of Discrete Approach to Project Network Diagram

Network Diagram

  • Building Gate and Fence Project:
    • First task: Dig Holes
    • Buy Wood and Buy Gate can start after Dig Holes. -Erect Fence requires Buy Wood -Buy Paint requires Buy Gate -Erect Gate requires Erect Fence and Buy Paint -Paint Fence requires Erect Gate -Paint Gate requires Paint Fence -Network diagrams are visual representations of a project's schedule. -Illustrates logical events leading to project completion. -Used to plan and track projects from start to finish. -Represent critical path and project scope. -Used for ease of readability to show activity sequence, and parallel activities, and connections between activities.
  • Rules of Thumb for Network Diagrams:
    • Starting point
    • Ending point -Predecessors for all activities (except the start point) -Successors for all activities (except the endpoint) -No loops or hangers

Precedence Diagramming Method (PDM)

  • Node represents activity
  • Also known as activity-on-node (AON) diagrams

Other Approaches for Network Diagram

  • Arrow Diagramming Method
  • Critical Chain Approach
  • Line of Balance Approach
  • Advanced Work Package Approach
  • Beeline Diagramming Method
  • Chronographic Modeling Approach
  • Timeboxing
  • Kanban

Critical Path

  • Critical Path: The sequence of activities that determine the duration of the project. It's the longest path through the project.
  • Forward Pass: Identifies early start (ES) and early finish (EF) dates.
  • Backward Pass: Identifies the late start (LS) and late finish (LF) dates. -Use formulas (ES + duration = EF) and (EF + lag = ES, EF – lead = ES) for successors.
  • Important for project managers to calculate slack times -Tasks on the critical path have a slack of 0

Slack Time (Float Time)

  • Amount of time a task can be delayed without delaying project completion or subsequent task start.
  • Total Slack = Late Finish – Early Finish or Total Slack = Late Start – Early Start

Near-Critical Path

  • One or more paths in the project that are not initially critical but may become critical due to events like longer durations or improved performance of non-critical tasks. -Probabilistic outcome of task/task duration plays a major variable.

Review Questions

  • Differences between critical and near-critical paths
  • Network diagrams with zero critical paths or zero near-critical paths
  • Calculation of task slack time, and its importance for project managers.
  • Tasks with zero slack
  • Loops in a network diagram
  • Rules of thumb for drawing network diagrams

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Related Documents

PMGT3623 Scheduling Lecture Plan (Week 3) PDF

Description

Test your knowledge on the Project Network Diagram as covered in PMGT3623 Week 3. This quiz will explore different approaches to creating network diagrams, critical paths, and project duration analysis. Enhance your understanding of key concepts that are crucial for successful project management.

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