Discuss the role of PERT, CPM and Gantt based on the following action items:
1. Identify the purpose of each tool and circumstances for using each. Also consider whether these tools are individual methods that can be used independently or if they should ideally be used as a set.
2. Contrast and compare activity-on-node and activity-on-arrow (or activity-on-arc) diagramming techniques. What are the differences and similarities?
3. Propose and describe in text form a sample project that you would theoretically develop into a PERT diagram and Gantt chart. For example, "Building a car would consist of the following steps..."(briefly outline the steps as task statements). Postulate the critical path of your sample hypothetical project: what would be the critical path sequence?© BrainMass Inc. brainmass.com December 24, 2021, 6:55 pm ad1c9bdddf
For your convenience, I have attached a APA formatted MS Word file containing the information. The name of the fictional company used to highlight the usefulness off the project managment tools mentioned is Wind and Waves Surfing Gear. I have also attached a reference source which might help to increase your understanding of the subject matter.
Using Project Management Tools in the Systems Design of
Wind and Waves Surfing Gear, Inc
October 20, 2007
When planning for activities within a project, it can be difficult to get a clear picture of what is being done, when and by whom. In this paper, we will use the creation of a computer software design for the fictional business entity, Wind and Waves Surfing Gear, Inc., as an example of the various planning tools that are available to a project manager towards the accomplishment of his or her goal. Looking at the data below, other than learning the description names of the various tasks and the expected time of their completion in days, very little else might prove useful to a project manager who is attempting to effectively and efficiently complete a project on time and within budget.
Description Task Must Follow Expected Time (Days)
Draw Data Flow P None 9
Draw Decision Tree Q P 12
Revise Tree R Q 3
Write up Project S R, Z 7
Organize Data Dictionary T P 11
Do Output Prototype X None 8
Revise Output Design Y X 14
Design Database Z T, Y 5
A Gantt chart is a very useful tool for analyzing and planning such complex projects. They:
I. Help you to plan out the tasks that need to be completed
II. Give you a basis for scheduling when these tasks will be carried out
III. Allow you to plan the allocation of resources needed to complete the project, ...
This solution discusses the role of PERT, CPM and Gantt in project management.