What is a critical path? Explain using an example.
Question Analysis
The question is asking you to define and explain the concept of a "critical path" in project management. Understanding the critical path is essential for program managers as it helps in identifying the sequence of key tasks that determine the minimum project duration. The question also requires you to provide an example to illustrate the concept, which helps in demonstrating your understanding in a practical context.
Answer
A critical path is the longest sequence of tasks in a project that must be completed on time for the entire project to be completed by its deadline. It determines the shortest possible duration to complete the project. Any delay in tasks on the critical path directly impacts the project's completion date.
Example:
Consider a simple project to organize a conference. The tasks involved are:
- Task A: Book Venue (3 days)
- Task B: Send Invitations (2 days)
- Task C: Arrange Catering (2 days)
- Task D: Prepare Agenda (1 day)
- Task E: Confirm Speakers (2 days)
- Task F: Set Up Venue (1 day)
Suppose the dependencies are as follows:
- Task B can only start after Task A.
- Task C and Task D can be done independently after Task B.
- Task E can start after Task C and Task D.
- Task F can start after Task E.
The sequences and their durations are:
- A -> B -> C -> E -> F = 3 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 10 days
- A -> B -> D -> E -> F = 3 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 9 days
The critical path is the first sequence (A -> B -> C -> E -> F) with a total duration of 10 days. This sequence is the longest pathway through the project, and any delay in these tasks will delay the whole project.