1. What are the different types of dependencies? There are four different types of dependencies, including:
Mandatory - requires the completion of another task.
Discretionary - a best practice or convenience. However, the subsequent task can begin if the discretionary dependency is not completed.
External - from another project or process.
Internal - dependencies within the control of the project team.
2. The critical path is the path of activities that all have a slack/float of 0. It is important because if any of them complete later than scheduled, the project may not be completed on time.
3. Which tasks would likely be part of the critical path for building a canoe? Why do the other activities have float/slack?
1. Obtain wood for boat
2. Build seats
3. Obtain oars or paddles
4. Cut and shape wood for boat body
5. Paint canoe with water sealant
6. Test boat in water
4. Which tasks would likely be on the critical path for building a house? Why do the other activities have float/slack?
1. Obtain bricks
2. Paint Rooms
3. Install furnace
4. Obtain lumber
5. Wire for electricity
6. Obtain building permit
5. What is float?
Float is the number of extra days/weeks/months an activity can take without impacting the completion time of the project. It is calculated by subtract Earliest Finish Time (EF) from Latest Finish Time (LF).
6. Define an activity duration estimate.
The duration estimate for an activity is the time required to perform the work plus any associated waiting time.
7. What are the benefits of resource leveling?
o Minimizes period-by-period variations by shifting tasks within their slack Utilizes resources more efficiently
o Resources do not have days with no work scheduled and other days with too much work.
o Does not increase budget
o Does not have to change scheduled completion