Unit2-SPM-Part2
Unit2-SPM-Part2
Contents
2.1 Project Planning
2.2 Steps for Project Planning
2.3 PERT and Gantt Charts
2.4 Introduction to Project Management using Gantt Project
2.5 Objectives of Activity planning
2.6 Project Schedules, Activities, Sequencing and Scheduling
2.7 Network Planning Models
2.8 Formulating Network Model
2.9 Summary
1.Sequential Activities: These are tasks that must be completed in a specific order. For
example, designing a product must precede manufacturing it.
2.Parallel Activities: These are tasks that can be executed simultaneously without
dependencies. For instance, while the design team works on product design, the
marketing team can start creating promotional materials.
3.Critical Path Activities: These are activities that, if delayed, would directly impact the
project's overall timeline. The critical path is the longest sequence of dependent activities
that determine the shortest possible duration for completing the project.
2.Time-Bound: Activities have specific start and end dates or durations, contributing to the
overall project timeline.
4.Dependency: Activities may have dependencies on other activities, meaning that the
completion of one activity is necessary before another can start.
2. Better Planning and Scheduling: Activities are like building blocks for planning a
project. They help figure out when each part of the project should happen, who's needed,
and what resources are required.
3. Using Resources Wisely: Each activity needs certain things to get done, like people,
tools, or materials. By knowing what each activity needs, project managers can make sure
resources are used in the best possible way.
5. Dealing with Problems Early: Because activities help track progress, project
managers can spot any issues early on. This means they can fix things before they
become big problems that could delay the whole project.
1. Sequence Tasks: They provide a clear understanding of the order in which tasks should
be executed, ensuring that work progresses smoothly from one activity to the next.
3. Determine the Critical Path: The critical path is the longest sequence of tasks that
determines the shortest possible duration of the project. By identifying the critical path,
project managers can focus their efforts on managing and optimizing tasks along this
path to ensure timely project completion.
• In project management, there are two types of network diagrams: the arrow diagramming
method (ADM), also known as "activity network diagram" or "activity on arrow"; and
the precedence diagramming method (PDM), also known as "node network" or "activity
on node.”
• It is crucial to note that, due to its limitations, the ADM is no longer commonly utilized in
project management.
• However, understanding ADMs will help you recognize them if they appear in your
workplace.
MITACSC Dr. Bharati Kawade Software Project Management 39
Network Planning Models cont..
1. Arrow Diagram Method (ADM)
In ADM:
2. The tail of the arrow signifies the beginning of the action, while the head represents the
end.
3. The length of the arrow often represents the duration of the action.
4. Each arrow connects two boxes, called "nodes." Nodes are used to indicate the
beginning or end of an activity in a sequence. The initial node of an activity is
sometimes referred to as the "i-node," whereas the last node of a sequence is sometimes
referred to as the "j-node."
5. The only relationship between nodes and activity that an ADM chart may indicate is
"finish to start" (FS).
MITACSC Dr. Bharati Kawade Software Project Management 40
Network Planning Models cont..
1. Arrow Diagram Method (ADM)
• In some cases, ADM network diagrams require the inclusion of "dummy activities" to
represent indirect relationships.
• For instance, if activity C can only start after both activities A and B are finished, but A
and B are not directly related, a dummy activity is added between B and C to show this
dependency.
• For example, if pouring concrete (activity A) and obtaining permits (activity B) are
prerequisites for tiling a floor (activity C), a dummy activity would illustrate the
connection between B and C.
• Additionally, ADM charts lack a built-in mechanism for incorporating lead and lag times
without introducing new nodes and activities.
• In contemporary project management, PDM network diagrams are commonly employed, offering
a streamlined substitute for ADMs.
• In the Precedence Diagramming Method, each node signifies an activity, while arrows depict
relationships between them.
• These arrows symbolize all four potential connections: "Finish to Start" (FS), "Start to Start"
(SS), "Finish to Finish" (FF), and "Start to Finish" (SF).
1. “Finish to Start” (FS): When an activity cannot start before another activity finishes
• PDM allows you to write lead and lag times beside the arrows.
• If a given action will take 10 days to complete before the following activity can begin, for
example, you may simply put "10 days" over the arrow expressing the relationship
between the related nodes.
MITACSC Dr. Bharati Kawade Software Project Management 44
Network Planning Models cont..
Advantages of Network Diagram
2.Sequence Planning: Network diagrams help project managers plan the sequence of tasks
more effectively, ensuring that work progresses in the correct order and minimizing delays.
4.Critical Path Analysis: Network diagrams help identify the critical path—the longest
sequence of tasks that determines the project's duration. This allows project managers to
focus their efforts on managing and optimizing tasks along the critical path to ensure timely
project completion.
6.Risk Identification: Network diagrams help project managers identify potential risks and
uncertainties by highlighting dependencies and critical path tasks. This allows project teams
to proactively address risks and develop contingency plans to mitigate their impact on the
project.
MITACSC Dr. Bharati Kawade Software Project Management 46
Network Planning Models cont..
Advantages of Network Diagram
4.Critical Path Analysis: Network diagrams help identify the critical path—the longest
sequence of tasks that determines the project's duration. This allows project managers to
focus their efforts on managing and optimizing tasks along the critical path to ensure timely
project completion.
6.Risk Identification: Network diagrams help project managers identify potential risks and
uncertainties by highlighting dependencies and critical path tasks. This allows project teams
to proactively address risks and develop contingency plans to mitigate their impact on the
project.
MITACSC Dr. Bharati Kawade Software Project Management 47
Network Planning Models cont..
Advantages of Network Diagram
Overall, network diagrams play a crucial role in project planning, execution, and
monitoring, helping project managers optimize workflows, minimize risks, and ensure
successful project outcomes.