Managing the critical path isn’t enough

You manage your project schedule by focusing on the critical path. But don’t stop there! Project time management requires examination of other items. Here are things to check to proactively manage your schedule:

Examine “near critical paths.”A path with a small amount of slack means you have a near critical path. These tasks with very little slack should be monitored with the same diligence as your critical path, because almost any task delay could shift your critical path. 

Watch resource work time. Monitor variances between forecasted and actual work hours on your project. Consistent under-allocation of actual work time on project tasks could lead to schedule slippage. Ensure you understand why resources aren’t working as much as planned. Work with management if a reallocation of project tasks is necessary to keep things on track.  

Look for convergence tasks. Successor tasks with multiple paths leading into them are prone to delay, because many predecessor tasks must complete on time to keep the convergence task on schedule. Monitor progress leading up to convergence tasks and proactively respond if delays seem likely. Note: convergence tasks are candidates for contingency because of the likelihood of delays.

Note upcoming risks. Understand your risk triggers. Explore additional resourcing, fast-tracking or crashing alternatives if risks appear poised to come to fruition. Examine the possibilities for other risks due to delays to your schedule, such as losing staff to other initiatives or contractor agreements expiring.

To learn more, check out my Project Management Foundations course.