Developing the schedule

Project time planning

After project definition, developing the schedule is the most important job the project manager has. Inputs from cost, in addition to outputs from prior time processes, are combined with several complex methods to generate a schedule, and a schedule management plan. The schedule is likely to require changes to cost processes. Overall, this is one of the most complex tasks in project management.

Schedule development involves taking the activity information and considering the project’s overall (baseline) schedule, outlined in the preliminary documentation, to create what will be a dynamic document. As work is undertaken and as the project progresses through the lifecycle, and regardless of contingency planning, changes to the schedule are likely to occur.

The project schedule both defines the work to be done and specifies deadlines for activities and tasks.

The schedule, usually represented and managed using a diagram or chart, illustrates the:

1. Defined  Activities
2. Sequenced  Activities
3. Estimated Activity Resources
4. Estimated Activity Durations

The management of time is crucial in:

• Project Planning
• Project Estimating
• Project Resourcing
• Project Monitoring and Control.

Project Advantage offer extensive training in time management as a part of our Project Advantage Accelerator Program.