2. Introduction- CPM:-
• Critical path is a sequence of activity between a project's start
and finish that takes the longest time to complete.
• Critical path method is based on mathematical calculations
and it is used for scheduling project activities. In 1950, Critical
path method(CPM) was developed by Kelly and Walker to assist
in building and maintains of chemical plants.
• The initial critical path method was used for managing plant
maintenance projects.
3. In applying CPM, the following five steps are often
followed:
• Define the required tasks and arrange them in an ordered,
sequenced list.
• Create a flowchart or other critical path diagram showing
each task in relation to the others.
• Identify the critical and non-critical relationships or paths
among the tasks.
• Determine the expected end date or execution or
completion time for each task.
• Locate or devise alternatives or backups for the most
critical paths.
4. Benefits of CPM
• Useful at many stages of project management
• Mathematically simple
• Give critical path and float time
Provide project documentation
• Useful in monitoring costs
• Visual representation
5. Limitations to CPM
• Specified precedence relationship
• Activity time estimates are subjective and depend on
judgment
• Can be more difficult understand ten grant charts
The time needed for tasks is not as clear as with grant
charts
