Manage CPM
Use Case
For detailing out the schedule, the scheduler uses the critical path scheduling method to manage the complexities of the project.
This section covers a brief explanation of Critical Path Method (CPM) and how it is used in InEight Schedule.
Critical Path Method
Critical Path Method (CPM) is the most common and accepted methodology for scheduling large, complex construction projects. This section provides a quick, high-level review of how CPM scheduling works.
Imagine you're planning a project for building a house. Tasks would include laying the foundation, putting up walls, installing plumbing and electricity, and so on. Some tasks could be done independently, while others would depend on each other.
The Critical Path Method (CPM) helps you figure out the shortest time it will take to complete the whole thing. To do this, it includes the following elements:
-
Identify Tasks: First, you list out all the tasks needed to complete the project. For building a house, this could be things like pouring concrete, framing walls, installing windows, etc.
-
Sequence Tasks: Next, you figure out the order in which these tasks need to be done. For example, you can't install windows until the walls are up.
-
Estimate Durations: Then, you estimate how long each task will take based on past durations, industry standards, or input from experts.
-
Dependencies: Some tasks can only start after others finish. For example, you can't paint the walls until they're built. These dependencies are crucial for determining the flow of work.
-
Critical Path: Now comes the important part. The critical path is the sequence of tasks that determines the shortest time it will take to complete the project. It's like the backbone of your schedule. If any task on the critical path gets delayed, the whole project gets delayed.
-
Buffer: Alongside the critical path, you might identify tasks that have some flexibility in their timing. These are called non-critical tasks. You can use these to create a buffer in case there are delays on the critical path.
Along with identifying the critical (or longest) path, CPM will identify subsequent paths (based on criteria such as float order of other activities), so you can keep your eye on the most important subcritical paths as well.
Using CPM in InEight Schedule
By default, Critical Path Method (CPM) is turned on in InEight Schedule, meaning your schedule will automatically calculate and show the critical path (and subcritical paths) in your schedule. As you change activity durations and logic, the system will automatically recalculate and reshuffle activities, updating the critical path based on the logic links that exist.
For example, if you extend the duration of an activity, it will extend any dependent successor activities along with it. If those dependent activities are part of the critical path, the overall duration of the schedule will be extended.
In InEight Schedule you can turn off (or back on) CPM functionality from Schedule Settings.
Access the following link for additional information on using the Auto CPM function within InEight Schedule: