Activities carried out in a project generally depend on each other. We can find out by applying the critical path method. What is it and how to create the right critical path?

What is Critical Path

Critical path is one of the most important concepts in project management. The critical path method is a scheduled sequence of activities and can determine the duration of a project. These scheduled activities must be carried out if the project is to be considered a success. Of course, these activities must be completed in a specific order. For example, when building a house, of course we have to make the foundation first as a base, then build the walls, the process cannot just be reversed. This is what is determined in the critical path method. This method will describe the longest sequence of tasks in the project, because each task is sequenced in detail to reduce the risk of errors. A project usually does not run 100% smoothly, there are bound to be obstacles. In the critical path method there are also several ways to overcome various obstacles. For example, fast tracking and allocation of additional resources to complete tasks quickly. Of course, it must be adjusted to the conditions of each project to implement these two things.

Benefits of Critical Path

Applying the critical path method certainly has various benefits for the project team and all related parties. Here are some of the benefits:

1. Reduce the risk of delay. The critical path method helps find the sequence of the most important tasks in working on a project. Project managers can use this information to reduce the risk of delays by optimising work along the critical path. Managers and teams can then decide on proactive countermeasures before project delays occur.
2. Visualising Dependencies The critical path method relies on a list of all tasks associated with a project and their dependency levels. The charts created by this method can help the project team visualise the level of dependencies and prioritise tasks appropriately. Schedule visualisation in the critical path method can also provide a general map to all stakeholders interested in the project. Additionally, there is also information about resources and what to expect in each process driven by the critical path method.
3. Improve organisation In complex projects, the critical path method helps break down tasks in more detail, making it easier to sequence tasks. When combined with dependency visualisation, mapping constraints, and determining critical task paths, it will greatly help in improving project organization. In the end, the project becomes easier to manage.
4. Optimise efficiency By mapping the critical path, project managers will get a better picture of what tasks are important in a project. Project managers can then use this information to allocate resources more efficiently, adding or subtracting resources depending on the importance of the task.
5. Calculating Float Float in the critical path method is the time that can be postponed without affecting the project schedule. Float is an important part of the critical path. Calculating float can help distribute resources more effectively while being better prepared for unexpected problems that may arise at any time during the project.
6. Determine project work time more accurately. Identification with the critical path method can help project managers determine how much time is needed to complete a project. This information is, of course, very important in planning and setting time targets from start to project completion.
7. Make communication more effective. With the critical path method, the framework becomes clearer. This can be used as a basis for better coordinating and communicating among a project team. In every project, cooperation between teams is required. For cooperation to take place well, the flow of information must be smooth. The charts in the critical path make it very easy for all teams to ensure the project is completed on time.

How to Create a Critical Path in a Project

The following are several steps to create a critical path:

• Determine all the tasks that must be performed on a project.
• Set the estimated duration of each task.
• Find dependencies between each task.
• Create a project network diagram.
• Calculate the fastest start and finish times.
• Calculate the latest start and finish times.
• Identify critical paths.
• Manage critical paths.

How to Implement a Critical Path

After the critical path charts have been created, here are several steps to apply the critical path method to a project:

1. Identify activities and dependencies. First, determine all the activities required for the project at hand, then find out if there are any dependencies between them. From this data, network diagrams such as critical path diagrams and precedence diagrams can be created.
2. Carry out activities according to the estimated duration. After identifying all the activities that must be carried out, it's time to carry out the activities according to the duration required for each activity. In general, estimates are made based on experience from previous projects. It can also be made based on consultation with relevant experts and using relevant data.
3. Calculating the Critical Path By using the two data points above, the critical path can be calculated. This calculation involves determining which activities are on the critical path with the longest total duration. All activities on this route must be carried out correctly so that the project can be completed according to schedule.
4. Monitor the critical path After activities have been identified on the critical path, the next step is to monitor them so that they can run according to expectations. That doesn't mean there won't be delays. This kind of risk can always occur. At least with the critical path method. Corrective action can be taken to reduce the risk of project schedule delays.
5. Adjust the schedule If significant changes occur in the project, the schedule must be updated and adjusted to the latest conditions. Schedule changes involve adjusting the sequence of activities, duration estimates, and dependencies between activities to find out what needs to be changed in the project schedule.

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